WASHINGTON -- United States Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., and Congressman Jim McCrery, R-La., today announced that the Air Force is proposing up to 300 new jobs at Barksdale Air Force Base to support increased training requirements and better management of nuclear operations around the country.

"With this increase in manpower, the Air Force has once again recognized the important role Barksdale Air Force Base plays in defending our nation," Sen. Landrieu said. "This training mission with a focus on nuclear operations will not only enhance Barksdale's role in a critical area of military defense, but will also provide economic growth to the Shreveport-Bossier area.

"These jobs are in addition to expected growth at the Air Force Network Operations Center, which is a critical component of the Air Force Cyber Command Provisional at Barksdale. Cyber Command is the underpinning of our nation's ability to fight new wars in cyberspace.

"I will continue to work with General Elder and Congressman Jim McCrery to ensure Barksdale has the federal funds it needs for Barksdale's expanded mission."

"Anytime we can sustain and prolong our nation's B-52 fleet, it's a good thing for the Air Force and the country," Rep. McCrery said. "Over and over, the B-52 has proven its combat prowess, and Barksdale Air Force base continues to play a key role both in our national defense and in the economy of the 4th Congressional District. The additional manpower at Barksdale certainly would be welcomed."

Lt. Gen. Robert J. Elder, Commander of the 8th Air Force at Barksdale, yesterday called Sen. Landrieu and Congressman McCrery regarding the increased manpower at the base that will support the new B-52 Flight Training Squadron.

The Air Force is also proposing that some B-52s will be moved to Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota, but Barksdale will retain all existing active duty squadrons.