Air Force squadron to transfer from DC to Maryland Air National Guard, Gov. Moore says

BALTIMORE -- The Air Force's 121st Fighter Squadron will transfer from D.C.'s Air National Guard to Maryland's, according to Governor Wes Moore.

The squadron of the 113th Wing flies F-16s at Joint Base Andrews.

According to the governor, the move continues a flying mission for the state.

The governor said the Air Force would coordinate the timeline for the transition from D.C. to Maryland.

"The men and women of the Maryland Air National Guard are some of the finest and most experienced pilots in the world. In partnership with our congressional delegation and federal partners, we have advocated vigorously to maintain Maryland's flying mission, both in the interest of national security and to continue the proud tradition that Maryland plays in defending our country," said Gov. Moore.

The Maryland A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft of the 104th Fighter Squadron is scheduled to be divested on September 30, 2025, according to Gov. Moore.

"We worked to secure this re-designation because it will provide stability at Joint Base Andrews, while simultaneously improving the current manning shortfalls of pilots and maintainers across the National Capitol Region. This is a win-win scenario," said U.S. Senators Cardin and Van Hollen.

The Maryland Air National Guard started flying as part of the 104th Observation Squadron, one of the oldest units in the U.S. Air Force. They were federally recognized in June 1921.