The Air Force confirmed the transition in a record of decision issued in December 2024. The wing’s final three F-15s departed Barnes in October 2025, clearing the way for the conversion.
The F-35A brings stealth, sensor fusion and precision-strike capabilities to the Massachusetts Air National Guard unit. It is designed for air combat, ground-attack missions and joint operations in contested environments.
The new aircraft will also allow the wing to support combatant commanders overseas while maintaining its domestic alert commitment. The transition positions Barnes to operate fifth-generation fighters for decades.
“The F-35A brings with it incredible capabilities that will be able to support combatant commanders around the world, as well as continued defense of the United States from our 24-hour alert site,” said Brig. Gen. David “Moon” Halasi-Kun, former commander of the 104th Fighter Wing. “I know that our Barnestormers will be up to the challenge as we start to begin our conversion.”
Preparations at Barnes included new sunshades, work involving specialized F-35A equipment and training for Airmen assigned to the mission. The wing is now moving from infrastructure and personnel preparation to operating the aircraft.
“I am honored to officially welcome the most advanced and capable fighter aircraft in the world to the 104th Fighter Wing in the F-35A,” said Col. Michael “Shot” Glass, commander of the 104th Fighter Wing. “Welcoming in these fifth-generation aircraft provides our wing with increased and unmatched capabilities to safeguard both our country and the great city of Westfield as we execute our new 104th Fighter Wing mission and vision.”
The ceremony brought together military personnel, wing alumni, officials and community representatives. Kenyan and Paraguayan military delegates attended through the State Partnership Program.
The event also marked a personal transition for Capt. Kyle “Nuke” Eckert, who participated in the departure of the final F-15 formation. He is now among the first F-35A pilots assigned to Barnes.
“It was an honor to be a part of the final three-ship of Eagles to leave Barnes back in October of 2025,” Eckert said. “To now be one of the first F-35A pilots at Barnes Air National Guard Base is an amazing full circle moment.”
Maj. Gen. Gary W. Keefe, adjutant general of the Massachusetts National Guard and a former member of the wing, presided over the ceremony. The event concluded in the main hangar with the newly arrived F-35A on display.
The transition establishes a new mission for the 104th Fighter Wing after years of planning and preparation. The unit will focus on producing combat-ready Airmen able to defend the United States and employ F-35A airpower.
