MADISON — Approximately 300 Airmen and a number of F-16 Fighting Falcons assigned to Madison’s 115th Fighter Wing arrived at Prince Sultan Air Base, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, earlier this week.

During the unit’s final deployment with the F-16 aircraft, Wisconsin Air National Guardsmen and Airmen of the 115th FWs active associate, the 378th Fighter Squadron, will be joining the 378th Air Expeditionary Wing to provide agile combat air support for U.S. Central Command operations throughout the Middle East.

“We have answered our call time and time again with professionalism, dedication to duty, and unwavering excellence,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Bart Van Roo, the commander of the 115th FW. “As you embark on our last deployment in the F-16, I want you to enjoy this tremendous opportunity for our great team.”

While Truax Field’s F-16s are scheduled to be replaced with the F-35 Lightning II aircraft in 2023, it’s important to note the unit has flown over 49,000 sorties around the world in support of both state and federal missions.

“Thank you for your dedication to your communities, and to our great state,” said Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers. “I am confident that you will perform your federal mission overseas with the same tenacity and dedication you have shown in supporting the missions asked of you here at home.”