SHREVEPORT, La. — U.S. Sen. John Kennedy highlighted B-52 modernization and $72.2 million in fiscal 2026 funding for the Shreveport-Bossier area during an address to regional business leaders.
Kennedy, R-La., a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, discussed Barksdale Air Force Base, energy, economic growth and other priorities for Northwest Louisiana, according to his office.
The funding includes $26.2 million for two new B-52 flight simulators to improve pilot training at Barksdale and $18 million for B-52 technology upgrades involving cockpits, logistics and weapon systems.
Another $18 million will support innovation and technology modernization for Air Force Global Strike Command. Centenary College will receive $10 million to renovate Mickle Hall for a new School of Health Sciences, an investment intended to help strengthen the region’s health care workforce.
Kennedy’s office said he secured the funding.
“Barksdale is critical to our national security and modernizing our B-52 fleet will help keep America’s bomber force strong for decades to come,” Kennedy said. “I’m proud to fight for the investments that strengthen Barksdale, create good jobs and keep this region moving forward.”
Kennedy also emphasized Barksdale’s role in the regional economy and national defense. According to his office, the Air Force’s approximately $20 billion B-52 modernization program will support the installation’s long-term role and help keep the bomber fleet operating into the 2050s.