EAST HARTFORD, Conn. -- Sen. Chris Dodd and Rep. John Larson pledged Thursday to ensure there's a future for the F-22 fighter program and the workers at Hamilton Sundstrand and Pratt & Whitney.

The lawmakers said the issue is about more than just jobs. They said it's about national security.

Though they admit that creating the future they are looking at will be tough, they said it's one they think they can obtain.

They met Thursday in East Hartford with machinists at Pratt & Whitney, who said they need help.

"This is the most highly skilled, highly trained workforce in the whole country," Larson said.

The Pentagon's plan to end the F-22 fighter program is more than about losing jobs, Larson said. He said it's about keeping America safe.

And the machinists said they're proud of the work they do.

"I still feel we are No. 1, superior, and we make the best product," said Bruce Blais, of Pratt & Whitney.

"It's the finest piece of technology," Dodd said.

Orders for the stealth fighter jets have dropped from 750 to 183, the lawmakers said, but ending the program could put 3,000 people out of work.

Machinest Steve Merrick said he's a little worried.

"Yes, I mean, whatever happens, happens," he said. "I am not going to worry too much. I have grey hair, but I have two children and five grandchildren."