CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Wyoming Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Luke Reiner has joined other Guard leaders around the country in asking Congress to approve upgrades to older transport planes.

Wyoming is one of the 18 states with Air Guard units that operate the C-130H planes. The military transport aircraft are used both domestically and abroad.

In addition to overseas missions, two of the Wyoming planes are used for firefighting.

The Adjutants General Association says the planes need improvements to meet new aviation requirements.

Wyoming U.S. Rep. Cynthia Lummis is cosponsoring a bill in the House to require the upgrades or alternative solutions by 2020.

The Republican says the planes are a critical component of defense and service capabilities for Wyoming, the U.S. Air Force and the nation.

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