Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez joined Congressman Carlos A. Gimenez, Lockheed Martin, and South Florida business leaders for an F-35 Lightning II cockpit demonstration focused on the aircraft’s mission, the future of Homestead Air Reserve Base, and South Florida’s strategic role in strengthening America’s national defense.
The F-35 is the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft and a critical component of maintaining American air superiority in an increasingly complex security environment. Congressman Gimenez has worked to secure 24 F-35s for Homestead Air Reserve Base, a mission that would strengthen the 482nd Fighter Wing, expand the base’s capabilities, and reinforce South Florida’s importance to the security of the United States and the Western Hemisphere.
“National security requires strength, preparation, and the ability to stay ahead of our adversaries,” said Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez. “The F-35 represents the advanced technology and military capability necessary to keep our country secure. Bringing this mission to Homestead Air Reserve Base would strengthen one of South Florida’s most important military installations while ensuring our servicemembers have the tools and resources necessary to defend the United States.”
Fernandez thanked Congressman Gimenez for his leadership in supporting Homestead Air Reserve Base and advocating for investments in military technology, infrastructure, and readiness. He also highlighted the significant economic impact of the F-35 program, which supports more than 30,500 jobs across Florida and generates more than $23 billion annually for the state’s economy, strengthening Florida’s aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors while contributing directly to America’s defense industrial base.
Fernandez also thanked Orlando “OJ” Sanchez, President of Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, and the Lockheed Martin team for the demonstration and for their continued commitment to America’s national defense. “Congressman Gimenez understands that protecting America also means investing in the people, installations, and technology that make our military the strongest in the world,” Fernandez added. “I applaud his work to strengthen the 482nd Fighter Wing, support Homestead Air Reserve Base, and ensure South Florida continues to play a central role in protecting our nation and our hemisphere.”
