WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12) – top Republican on the House Appropriations Committee and former chairwoman of the Defense Appropriations Subcommittee – released the following statement praising news that the Department of Defense had reached a deal with Lockheed Martin to purchase 478 F-35 aircraft valued at $34 billion.

“The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which is built in the heart of my district, is the world’s most capable and lethal aircraft. This landmark deal is a huge win for Fort Worth and the hardworking men and women of our workforce. I applaud the Defense Department and Lockheed Martin for their efforts to ensure our outstanding military – and our allies like Israel – have the best equipment possible to carry out their vital mission.”