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Guest Commentary: August 23, 2001
Upgrades to B-1 Program Are Essential
The Honorable Tim Johnson
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On several occasions, Air Force officials have assured me that they support upgrading the B-1 bomber fleet. They made those assurances when the total number of B-1 Lancer bombers was 93.
Now, without proper debate in the Congress, the Bush Administration has said it wants to reduce the number of bombers from 93 to 60. They made that recommendation without any cost justification. ...
The B-1 and its current non-nuclear capabilities and performance in Kosovo have shown it to be a reliable and effective weapon system. I understand, and fully support, the need for the ongoing top-to-bottom review of the military.
However, I believe it is critical to avoid sacrificing the long-term strength of our nation's military security for any short-term financial savings. The B-1 has been, and should continue to be, the backbone of our nation's bomber fleet.
There has been a lack of information and explanation from the Department of Defense on how a smaller B-1 fleet would fit into a new national defense strategy. ...
Four recent studies have concluded that the most effective option, from both a military and an economic standpoint, is retaining the B-1 and proceeding with its upgrade program
Note: The above commentary has been adpated from a statement Senator Johnson issued, August 1, 2001.
 How to contact Senator Tim Johnson (D-SD)
Reading a past guest commentary? Click here for the most current one.
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