Last summer, the base was selected to for an F-35A training center, and now all F-35A pilots will train at either Luke or at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida.
“The decision to base additional F-35 fighters here ensures the long-term viability of our mission and continues our legacy of training the world’s greatest fighter pilots,” said Brig. Gen. Mike Rothstein, 59th Fighter Wing commander, in a release.
F-35As should begin arriving in 2014, depending on production schedules, according to the Air Force. Luke was selected because of its facility and ramp capacity, range access, weather and capacity for future growth, the service said.
At least 23 pilots have already been trained at Eglin Air Base, where pilots have logged more than 2,300 sorties and more than 3,500 flying hours, according to the Air Force. In addition to Eglin, F-35s also are flying for operational and developmental testing at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. The Air Force announced in June that it expects the F-35A to reach its initial operational capability in December 2016.