First Kadena-Bound F-15EX Departs Boeing Facility

The U.S. Air Force's newest Eagle variant, the F-15EX, has taken another step towards its permanent stationing in Japan. On August 28, 2026, the first Kadena-bound F-15EX departed Boeing's St. Louis facility en route to Portland, Oregon.

At Portland Air National Guard Base, the aircraft will undergo additional preparations before its eventual movement to Kadena Air Base. Brig. Gen. John Gallemore, 18th Wing commander, said, 'This is an important next step toward bringing the F-15EX home to Kadena.'

The F-15EX represents a significant investment in modernizing the U.S. military's airpower capabilities. It features advanced avionics, increased payload capacity, and multi-role capabilities. Its permanent stationing at Kadena will replace the legacy F-15C/D fleet.