TALLAHASSEE, Fla.-- Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis released the following statement on the selection of Tyndall Air Force Base as the preferred location for the MQ-9 Reaper Wing, housing 24 remotely piloted aircrafts headquarters, a mission control element, and a launch and recovery element.

 
“I’m thrilled that the U.S. Air Force recently announced that Tyndall Air Force Base remains their top location to headquarter remotely piloted aircrafts. Not only will this move boost the local economy and strengthen our military economy, bringing an estimated 1,600 new jobs and adding $250 million in construction, but it also has greater implications for our state. Selecting one of Florida’s communities reinforces our reputation as the top military and veteran-friendly state, and further cements us a place where innovation and technology can thrive. 

"These cutting-edge aircrafts are used more and more for military operations and disaster response efforts, so having the MQ-9 Reaper Wing call Florida home will greatly benefit our state and nation. I applaud the work on behalf of Bay County’s military community, including the Bay Defense Alliance, in securing this win for Florida and supporting our country's national security efforts.”