Montgomery will soon become the official home of the most technologically advanced fighter jet on the planet.

The Alabama National Guard's 187th Fighter Wing will begin housing the new F-35A fighter jet, which is more advanced than its predecessor, the F-16 Fighting Falcon, which left the base this year.

“I can't express its importance enough. Montgomery Mayor Stephen Reed said bringing the F-35 here has been a long-standing collaborative effort for many years. WSFA News.

RELATED: Alabama Air National Guard welcomes F-35 fighter jets

Gov. Kay Ivey also celebrated Friday with 187 people.^th The Alabama National Guard's Fighter Wing welcomed the first arrivals. F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter.

Nothing sounds more patriotic than the unmistakable roar of an F-35 as it traverses the skies of Alabama. #alpolitics pic.twitter.com/AUnA0IVA4w

— Governor Kay Ivey (@GovernorKayIvey) February 9, 2024

The jet's arrival will also benefit Montgomery's economy, according to County Commission Chairman Doug Singleton. “This is a huge economic benefit for us because we have about 2,000 jobs indirectly associated with the F-35,” Singleton said.

Another interesting point is the fact that the new jet features a red tail to honor the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the first black military pilots.

“We're very excited to be able to continue that and honor the legacy that they left over the years and continue that here in Montgomery,” Mayor Singleton said. .

The commemorative flight will take place on Friday afternoon during an official ceremony attended by invited community members, including government leaders and military personnel.

Michael Brauner is a senior sports analyst and contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP