Rep. Rick Larsen, WA-02, released the following statement today regarding the Navy’s decision to base six P-8A squadrons at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. The Navy’s Record of Decision finalizes the preferred option laid out in the Final Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement released in April.

“The Navy’s decision today signifies the prominent role that NAS Whidbey Island plays for maritime patrol and other naval operations in the Pacific. Basing six squadrons of P-8As on the island is great news for the stability of the base, for the Whidbey Island community and for our national security.

“I have been a determined advocate to bring the P-8As to Whidbey Island. They will serve a critical role in our country’s pivot to the Asia-Pacific region as a focus for security and economic interests. I am pleased the Navy has once again shown its commitment to NAS Whidbey Island,” Larsen said. 

In its decision, the Navy weighed “public comments, as well as strategy, operational, and environmental effects.”

Information about the Navy’s P-8A Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement is available here. The Record of Decision is available here.

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