WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.), the first Delaware Senator in more than four decades to serve on the critical Appropriations Committee, secured funding for National Guard operations and manufacturing engineering programs in the annual Defense Appropriations bills. The legislation passed out of the Appropriations Committee and is now ready for debate by the full Senate. 

“When I was first elected to represent Delaware in the Senate, I made it a priority to gain a seat on the important Appropriations Committee to make sure Delaware’s needs and priorities are addressed in our federal funding bills like this one,” said Senator Coons. “I’m thrilled this bill includes funding for critical Delaware priorities. It will support the C-130H aircraft and other operations of the Delaware National Guard that are vital to both our state and broader U.S. national security, as well as support STEM and manufacturing engineering education programs that benefit Delawareans.” 

Support for National Guard C-130Hs:

Senator Coons secured $147 million for the National Guard’s C-130H aircraft, an increase of $125 million. This will ensure New Castle’s C-130H aircraft remain relevant and also increase the performance, efficiency, and reliability of the National Guard’s C-130H fleet.

Support for Manufacturing Engineering Programs:

Senator Coons secured a $15 million increase for the Manufacturing Engineering Education Programs. This program funds competitive grants to graduate schools, four-year universities, and qualified non-profits, like the University of Delaware, to support industry-relevant, manufacturing-focused, engineering training. This program helps to build a technically-trained defense manufacturing workforce to meet the needs of the United States in the 21st century. 

Support for STARBASE:

Senator Coons secured an additional $15 million for STARBASE, a Pentagon program that allows students in Delaware and throughout the country to participate in a hands-on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) curriculum.  Students learn the importance of STEM skills in real world situations and develop fundamental math and science skills that are applicable to future education and employment opportunities.  

Support for the National Guard Operations:

Senator Coons helped provide $1 billion for Air National Guard base operations and $1.1 billion for Army National Guard base operations nationwide. This will fund various missions conducted from New Castle National Guard headquarters that keep Delaware and our nation secure. It ensures Guardsmen are able to fulfill their dual missions of supporting civilian authorities at home and U.S. military efforts abroad. 

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