F-15EX Fighter Heads to Okinawa as US Air Force Upgrades Presence
The first F-15EX fighter destined for overseas deployment has left Boeing's facilities in St. Louis, marking an important milestone for the US Air Force. The aircraft will join the 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, where it will be stationed alongside other F-15EX jets. This is part of a broader effort to upgrade the Air Force's capabilities and enhance its presence in the region.
The F-15EX is considered a crucial component of this plan, offering advanced mission computing, communications, and sensor capabilities that enable manned-unmanned teaming and future Collaborative Combat Aircraft integration. Brigadier General John Gallemore, commander of the 18th Wing, praised the development, stating that 'this is an important next step toward bringing the F-15EX home to Kadena.'
The aircraft will be delivered with baseline mission computing, communications, and sensor capabilities, setting the stage for future upgrades. The Air Force has been transitioning away from legacy F-15C/Ds since 2022, with plans to replace them with the more advanced F-15EX model.