Sen. Cruz: The Servicemen and Women at Dyess Air Force Base and the Abilene Community Are Committed to America’s Defense

Texas Defends America Tour

Tours Dyess Air Force Base, receives briefing on B-1 bomber force, C-130J airlift operations, and preparations for the B-21 “Raider”

ABILENE, Texas – U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) today continued his statewide ‘Texas Defends America’ tour with a visit to Dyess Air Force Base where he received an update on the B-1 bomber force, C-130J airlift operations, and preparations for the B-21 “Raider,” a long-range strike bomber. Following the tour, Sen. Cruz held a media availability.

Still photos and video of Sen. Cruz’s tour may be viewed here.

“Earlier this year, I was gratified the U.S. Air Force nominated Dyess as an official candidate to host the B-21 bomber,” Sen. Cruz said. “The military communities across the Lone Star State are dedicated to the national security and defense of our great country. The servicemen and women at Dyess Air Force Base and in the Abilene community are no exception. Their steadfast dedication, hard work, and resolve is a pillar in America’s strength, strategic capabilities, and deterrence. I’m honored to visit these brave men and women, and will continue working to ensure Texas leads America’s defense.”

The FY19 NDAA included over 30 provisions secured by Sen. Cruz that will ensure the continued success of Texas’ military communities and address the United States’ national security interests. Additionally, the bill provides full funding of $2.3 billion for the research, development, testing and evaluation of the B-21 “Raider” a long range strike bomber. In May. Sen. Cruz praised the Air Force’s nomination of Dyess to host the B-21 bomber. The bill also provides $51.3 million for procurement items for the B-1, and $178.6 million for procurement for the C-130J.