Fort Smith Regional Airport commissioners are weighing a major new initiative that would add an adversarial air training program to the airport’s existing international pilot‑training mission at the adjacent Ebbing Air National Guard Base. The proposal, still in the study phase, would create a simulated air‑to‑air combat environment—no live weapons—allowing U.S. and allied pilots to practice realistic engagements against mock enemy aircraft.
International interest and potential partners
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Grant Saum told the commissioners in June that both Germany and Singapore have expressed strong interest in establishing the program at Fort Smith. The effort would dovetail with the Foreign Military Sales Pilot Training Mission, which already sees Germany joining Poland and Finland this fall. Singapore is slated to join in 2027, bringing an estimated 900 pilots, support personnel and family members to the River Valley region.
Proposed infrastructure and budget
Meeting minutes released by the airport indicate that the plan could include up to six F‑16 fighter jets operating from the new facility. To support the jets, the airport would need to construct additional hangars, fuel storage and distribution systems, and related support buildings separate from the existing Guard Base. Airport Director Andrew Meyer told 40/29 News that no final site or configuration has been chosen, but if approved the project would cost roughly $84 million and would require congressional appropriations.
Funding and regulatory steps
The commissioners emphasized that federal funding is essential; without a congressional appropriation the project cannot move forward. A spokesperson for the Air Force added that while there are no formal plans yet, the service is assessing whether the program would trigger a new environmental assessment or an environmental impact statement under federal law.
Local impact and community response
Proponents argue the program would bring significant economic benefits to Fort Smith. Additional flight hours and training activities could generate jobs in construction, aviation maintenance, and support services, while the influx of foreign pilots and their families would boost local hospitality and retail sectors. Critics, however, have raised concerns about noise, increased traffic and the environmental footprint of expanding a military‑type operation at a civilian airport.
Next steps
The airport board will continue its feasibility study over the coming months, reviewing site options, cost estimates and potential funding sources. Public input will be solicited at a future commission meeting, giving residents a chance to voice support or opposition before any final decision is made.
Should the program receive the necessary approvals and funding, Fort Smith could become a regional hub for advanced pilot training, strengthening ties with key NATO allies and enhancing the readiness of U.S. air forces without ever firing live weapons on U.S. soil.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
