Encouraging the United States Navy to select Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach as the home base for new squadrons of F-35C Lightning II stealth strike fighters.
Summary
House Resolution 139 is a nonbinding resolution that urges the United States Navy to choose Naval Air Station Oceana in Virginia Beach as the home base for new squadrons of F-35C Lightning II carrier-capable stealth strike fighters. The resolution states that, beginning in 2029, the Navy plans to convert seven F/A-18E/F Super Hornet squadrons to F-35Cs, and argues that Oceana is the best location because of its existing infrastructure, its role as the Navy’s East Coast Master Jet Base, and its proximity to other major military assets in Hampton Roads.
The resolution emphasizes that basing the aircraft at Oceana would support national defense readiness, improve coordination with carrier strike groups, and avoid the cost and delay of building a new facility elsewhere. It also highlights local economic benefits, including sustaining jobs and supporting the regional economy, as well as quality-of-life factors for sailors and families such as schools and housing. The resolution directs the House Clerk to transmit the measure to the Secretary of the Navy so the Navy is aware of the General Assembly’s position.
Impact
Because this is a resolution rather than a statute, HR 139 does not change Virginia law or create enforceable legal obligations. Its practical effect is to express the House of Delegates’ official preference and to advocate to federal decision-makers for locating the F-35C squadrons at NAS Oceana. The measure primarily affects federal basing decisions, while signaling support for Virginia Beach, Hampton Roads defense infrastructure, military families, and the local economy.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been strongly favorable and largely uncontested. It advanced unanimously through subcommittee and Rules, and the House agreed to it by a wide margin, indicating broad bipartisan support for the resolution’s pro-military and pro-local-economy message. The discussion record provided does not show organized opposition or significant amendment activity.
Contention
No major points of contention are reflected in the available record. The resolution’s main implicit debate is between Oceana and any alternative Navy basing locations, but the text and vote history show only support for Virginia Beach’s candidacy. Any concerns would likely center on federal basing priorities, operational suitability, or community impacts such as noise and traffic, but those issues are not raised in the provided transcripts or votes.