The Air National Guard push in the northeast to lower the level at which fighters can fly over western Maine and northeastern New Hampshire is continuing with another public meeting slated for Wednesday at the University of Maine. The Massachusetts ANG’s 102nd Fighter Wing has spearheaded the effort, but Air Guard units in New York and Vermont use the training airspace as well. Public comments are being taken through July 15, reports the Morning Sentinel, whose Valerie Tucker talked with at least one retired Air Force colonel who opposes the plan. She reports that Maine’s Congressional delegation has received few calls on the matter, but they have requested an environmental impact study. The 102nd FW prepared a draft EIS for public comment and earlier extended the comment period because of citizen concerns.
Amid NATO’s continued push to ramp up air defenses in Eastern Europe, Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall swung by seven allied countries to boost relations last week, including those on Russia’s and Ukraine’s doorstep.