Rosemarie Alexander, KTOO – Juneau
U.S. Senator Mark Begich says Alaska military bases are not being targeted for major budget cuts. Instead the Obama Administration is recommending increased spending in the state.
Begich told state lawmakers Tuesday that Alaska is recognized as a strategic post in the nation’s world obligations and domestic security.
Defense is a significant portion of the federal budget, and Begich says there will be reductions. But while some bases are being downsized and closed, he believes military spending in Alaska will be strong.
Begich, who sits on the Senate Armed Services Committee, says the congressional delegation has worked hard to influence program spending, including defense.
With Alaska having the largest open air space in the country, Begich says it will be used more and more to test unmanned and other military aircraft.
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