IAM Union Commends 126 Bipartisan Congress Members for F-35 Program Funding Support

The IAM Union has praised 126 bipartisan members of Congress for backing strong funding for the F-35 Lightning II and F135 engine programs in the FY27 defense budget. Led by Reps. Veasey, Turner, Larson, and Rutherford, the letter requests funding for at least 85 F-35 aircraft, multiyear procurement authority, and modernization upgrades. The F-35 program supports over 290,000 jobs across 1,900 suppliers, with about half being small businesses. The IAM Union aims to ensure continued investment in these programs as Congress deliberates the FY27 defense budget.

Published Mar 28, 2026

The IAM Union applauds 126 bipartisan members of Congress who signed a letter advocating for funding of the F-35 Lightning II and F135 engine programs in the FY27 defense budget. The letter, led by Reps.

AI-curated by Theia

Veasey, Turner, Larson, and Rutherford, requests funding for a minimum of 85 F-35 aircraft, multiyear procurement authority, and modernization upgrades. The F-35 and F135 engine programs support over 290,000 jobs across more than 1,900 suppliers, with a significant portion being small businesses. The IAM Union will continue to push for robust funding as Congress addresses the FY27 defense authorization and appropriations process.