The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) said on Mar. 26 that it welcomes the support of 126 bipartisan members of Congress who signed a letter urging strong funding for the F-35 Lightning II and F135 engine programs in the Fiscal Year 2027 defense budget.
The request, led by Representatives Marc Veasey, Michael Turner, John Larson, and John Rutherford, asks key House committees to ensure continued investment in the advanced fighter aircraft program. The letter highlights priorities such as purchasing at least 85 F-35 aircraft with associated engines, authorizing multiyear procurement, sustaining investments, modernizing upgrades, and allocating additional funds for the F135 Engine Core Upgrade.
According to IAM Union officials, their members are involved in building the F-35 at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth facility in Texas and producing F135 engines at Pratt & Whitney facilities in Connecticut and other locations nationwide. “The F-35 is the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world, and continued investment in this program is essential to maintaining U.S. air superiority and national defense,” said IAM Union International President Brian Bryant. “It is encouraging to see 126 members of Congress, from both sides of the aisle, standing up for our members who build this aircraft and help keep our military members safe.”
The congressional letter states that more than 290,000 high-skilled jobs are supported by these programs across over 1,900 suppliers throughout nearly every state; about half of those suppliers are small businesses. Lawmakers also encouraged consideration of multiyear procurement authority after Full-Rate Production began in 2023 with delivery of 191 aircraft last year. Additional investments were requested for Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps spare parts following $1.44 billion provided for sustainment funding in Fiscal Year 2026.
IAM Union representatives say they will continue advocating for full funding as Congress moves through authorization and appropriations discussions related to these defense programs.
