Hill AFB F-35 jets arrive in Germany as tension continues with Russia, Ukraine

8:30PM: Hill AFB F-35 jets arrive in Germany as tension continues with Russia, Ukraine
KSL TV

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — The Air Force deployed F-35 aircraft and support crews from Utah's Hill Air Force Base to Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany Wednesday.

Air Force officials said the airmen will bolster readiness and provide support for our NATO allies.

The U.S. and its allies continue to keep a wary eye on the Russian buildup of forces on its border with Ukraine. The Biden administration said Russia added up to 7,000 troops near the border Wednesday even as Vladimir Putin claimed troops would pull back from the area.

Katie Adams-Anderton has relatives that live less than 150 miles from Russian positions and fleeing to neighboring countries looks difficult at best.

"I was told today was the day, and everybody in Ukraine was told today was the day," Adams-Anderton said. "Some neighboring countries have already said they're preparing for Ukrainian refugees, but my family's situation…we've talked about it, there isn't even money to get there."

It's a different concern from Hill Air Force Base as F-35 fighters scramble to the region. Hill Air Force Base sent planes, pilots, maintenance crews and support personnel from the active-duty 388th and Reserve 419th Fighter wings.

"Our airmen and aircraft were ready to go. I'm thankful for their hard work, and all of the support we received from Hill Air Force Base to get out the door," said Col. Craig Andrle, 388th Fighter Wing commander. "This deployment proves we can provide our Air Force the capabilities of the F-35A anywhere in the world rapidly."

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