US Air Force Receives First F-15EX Fighter Jet for Kadena Deployment
The U.S. Air Force has finally received its first F-15EX fighter jet, which is destined for Kadena Air Base in Japan. The aircraft, one of 36 that will be stationed at the base, left Boeing's St. Louis facilities on August 28 after months of delays due to a factory strike. The jet will undergo final systems integration and software updates in Portland, Oregon before heading to Okinawa.
The F-15EX is considered a key component of the U.S. military's strategy in the Pacific, offering advanced capabilities that will enhance Kadena's ability to generate ready combat airpower. Brigadier General John Gallemore, commander of the 18th Wing at Kadena, said the arrival of the F-15EX marks an important milestone for the base and its personnel.
The transition to the F-15EX has been a long time coming, with the Air Force starting to retire legacy F-15C/Ds from the base in 2022. The first jet was originally scheduled to arrive in spring 2026 but was delayed due to production issues at Boeing.