Kadena welcomes first permanently assigned F-15EX Eagle II aircraft

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan — The first permanently assigned U.S. Air Force F-15EX Eagle II fighter aircraft arrived at Kadena Air Base, Japan, on Nov. 15, 2026, marking a major milestone in the 18th Wing's fighter modernization and the continued strengthening of U.S. airpower in the Pacific region.

Kadena is the first overseas Air Force installation to receive combat-coded F-15EX aircraft and the second Air Force location to field the fighter, following the Oregon Air National Guard's 142nd Wing at Portland Air National Guard Base.

“The arrival of the F-15EX at Kadena marks a significant milestone for American airpower in the Pacific,” said Brig. Gen. John Gallemore, 18th Wing commander. “These aircraft strengthen our ability to deter aggression, respond to emerging threats, and defend Japan alongside our allies and partners. Their permanent presence at Kadena reinforces our commitment to the U.S.-Japan Alliance and ensures we continue to bring advanced combat capabilities to one of the most strategically important regions in the world.”

The arrival marks the next phase in replacing Kadena's legacy F-15C/D fleet, which began its phased withdrawal in November 2022 after more than four decades of service. During the transition, rotational deployments of fourth- and fifth-generation fighters maintained a continuous fighter presence at Kadena while maintainers, operators and mission support Airmen worked to build the expertise, interoperability and combat readiness needed to employ the new platform from its first day of operational service here.

Operators from the 67th Fighter Squadron traveled to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, and Portland Air National Guard Base, Oregon, to maintain flying proficiency and complete aircraft qualification training in preparation for the aircraft’s arrival.

“Getting the F-15EX to Kadena is just the beginning,” said Lt. Col. Ajay Dua, 67th Fighter Squadron commander.

“Now our focus shifts to integrating the aircraft into our flying operations, building experienceas a squadron, and learning how to get the most out of its capabilities. It's an exciting time to be part of the 67th Fighter Squadron.”

Maintenance personnel from the 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron also spent years preparing for the transition, coordinating with Boeing and Air Force teams at Eglin and Portland to develop and maintain technical proficiency. They additionally supported F-15E operations at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, during a personnel shortfall, gaining valuable experience while supporting the broader fighter enterprise.

“The arrival of the F-15EX represents years of hard work and dedication from our maintainers,” said Maj. Spencer Sherman, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron commander. “They sought out every opportunity to sharpen their skills, working with Boeing and our partners at Eglin and Portland, and even stepping in to support F-15E operations at Shaw.

“These Airmen have spent years preparing for this day, and I'm incredibly proud of the team that's ready to sustain the Eagle II at Kadena.”

The F-15EX brings advanced avionics, modernized electronic warfare systems, and increased weapons-carrying capacity to Kadena's fighter mission. Its arrival expands Kadena’s ability to conduct counterair operations and strengthens the Air Force's forward-deployed capabilities while complementing fifth-generation aircraft and supporting continued bilateral readiness alongside the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and other regional partners.

The transition carries forward the legacy of the 18th Wing’s 44th and 67th Fighter Squadrons, both of which will operate the F-15EX at Kadena.

This milestone comes as the 18th Wing prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2027, marking 100 years since its activation as the 18th Pursuit Group at Wheeler Field, Hawaii, on January 21, 1927.

For additional information, contact 18th Wing Public Affairs at 18wg.pamedia@us.af.mil

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