Congressman Rutherford Applauds Navy for Choosing Naval Station Mayport as the MQ-4C Triton Operating Base

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Rutherford (FL-04) applauded the Navy's decision to make Naval Station Mayport in Jacksonville the East Coast Forward Operating Base for the MQ-4C Triton unmanned aircraft. The MQ-4C Triton drone system specializes in maritime information, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. It can monitor the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea in a 360-degree circle, 24 hours at a time and can fly at altitudes higher than ten miles. This system builds on existing related Naval infrastructure in Jacksonville including the P-8A Poseidon aircraft and the existing MQ-4C training activities at NAS Jacksonville. The Triton program will bring 400 sailors and a new squadron of Navy drones to Mayport.

Congressman Rutherford said, "I am very pleased with the Navy's decision, which will not only enhance our national security by helping the Navy carry out its important maritime surveillance missions, but is also a huge victory for the Jacksonville community, further strengthening our partnership with the Navy. Naval Station Mayport and NAS Jacksonville are critical assets for our country and our region. The MQ-4C Triton will significantly increase the Navy's capabilities to conduct surveillance in the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Jacksonville prides itself on being the most military friendly city in America, and we welcome the sailors that will operate these aircraft and their families, who have the full support of the City of Jacksonville and the State of Florida."