Alabama State Leaders Show Support for T-100 Aircraft

Leonardo DRS made the announcement in Tuskegee on March 30, 2017 in front of a standing room only crowd of local and regional stakeholders who were excited to see the large-scale model of the fighter jet and hear that Leonardo DRS intends to build hundreds of this training aircraft in Tuskegee.

Leonardo DRS would spend $300 million building a manufacturing facility and create 750 new Alabama jobs if the company wins the sealed bid with the USAF to be awarded by the end of 2017. On Tuesday, at the Alabama State House, company officials are expected to experience a rare show of bi-partisan approval.

This show of support from the Alabama House compliments other actions by the Alabama Senate and Governor Kay Ivey who also recognize the merits of this aerospace economic development project. Alabama’s Congressional Delegation is also stepping up to assist in this effort.

The Italian-based Leonardo Aircraft Division has teamed with its USA-owned partner, DRS to bid on the T-X Trainer. Leonardo DRS has named its version of the aircraft, the T-100.

The selection of Tuskegee’s historic Moton Field as the manufacturing site is the culmination of years of recruitment efforts as well as a trip back in time.

During World War II, Tuskegee Airmen were stationed in Italy and were treated as first-class citizens. The respect and hospitality extended to the Tuskegee Airmen by the Italian people more than 75 years ago now circles back by way of the selection of Moton Field for the production of the T-100.

The decision by Leonardo DRS is yet another step in building Alabama’s aerospace sector and creating new, high-wage jobs for the people of Alabama.

Should the T-100 be built in Alabama, it will foster economic growth and prosperity in Macon County and across Alabama.