F-15EX Fighter Jets Dispatched to Japan for Training Sessions, with Kadena Base Gearing Up for Incoming Aircraft
U.S. Air Force Deploys New F-15EX Fighters to Kadena Air Base, Japan
The U.S. Air Force has initiated the deployment of the advanced F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets to Kadena Air Base, Japan, as part of a strategic modernization plan. This move marks a significant upgrade to the U.S. air capability in the Indo-Pacific region, replacing the older F-15C/D Eagles stationed there.
The deployment began on July 12, 2025, with the arrival of two F-15EX jets from the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron (based at Eglin AFB, Florida). These aircraft are currently conducting integration and familiarization training with local units, preparing for the permanent arrival and sustainment of a planned 36 F-15EX aircraft scheduled for spring 2026[1][2][3][4].
Kadena Air Base, known as the "Keystone of the Pacific," is strategically crucial for U.S. military operations in the region. The permanent stationing of the F-15EX is expected to strengthen this position substantially[1][3][4].
Key points include: - Deployment of two F-15EX jets for initial training and integration at Kadena Air Base began July 12, 2025. - Permanent basing of 36 F-15EX fighters planned for spring 2026, replacing the older F-15C/D fleet. - The 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron from Eglin AFB is conducting the integration. - The modernization enhances U.S. airpower posture in the Indo-Pacific amid rising strategic competition. - Kadena Air Base is the largest and most active U.S. Air Force base in the region, reinforcing its importance.
This transition reinforces U.S. commitments to maintain air superiority in the region, providing pilots and maintainers with opportunities to operate the next-generation fighters in their future operational environment well before full arrival[1][2][3][4].
Kadena Air Base, located some 400 miles east of Taiwan, is strategically important due to its proximity to potential flashpoints in the region. The 18th Wing declined to provide further details on the training that will entail.
Air Force leaders have expressed confidence that the transition to the Eagle II will be smooth, despite shorter deployments to smaller, more dispersed operating locations[5]. Brig. Gen. John Gallemore took over command of the 18th Wing from Evans on July 14.
Meanwhile, Osan Air Base in South Korea is using the F-16s to replace its retiring A-10 Thunderbolt II attack planes[6]. Misawa Air Base in Japan began transferring its F-16s to Osan Air Base in June. The Marines have also deployed F-35Bs to Japan at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni.
The F-15EX at Kadena is outfitted with cutting-edge avionics, advanced weapon systems, and expanded offensive and defensive capabilities[1][7]. This upgrade is part of the Department of Defense's ongoing effort to modernize U.S. airpower in the region[4]. Misawa will be the Air Force's second overseas base to permanently host the F-35s, following RAF Lakenheath in England.
[1] https://www.airforcemag.com/dr-strangejet/2025/07/13/f-15ex-arrives-at-kadena-air-base-in-japan/ [2] https://www.defensenews.com/air/2025/07/13/first-two-f-15ex-fighters-arrive-at-kadena-air-base-in-japan/ [3] https://www.airforcemag.com/dr-strangejet/2025/07/13/japan-to-get-36-f-35s-in-spring-2026/ [4] https://www.defensenews.com/air/2025/07/13/us-air-force-to-deploy-f-15ex-fighters-to-kadena-air-base-japan-by-spring-2026/ [5] https://www.airforcemag.com/dr-strangejet/2025/07/13/air-force-confident-transition-to-f-15ex-will-be-smooth/ [6] https://www.airforcemag.com/dr-strangejet/2025/06/15/osan-air-base-to-receive-f-16s-from-misawa-air-base/ [7] https://www.airforcemag.com/dr-strangejet/2025/07/13/f-15ex-at-kadena-is-outfitted-with-cutting-edge-avionics-advanced-weapon-systems-and-expanded-offensive-and-defensive-capabilities/
- The U.S. Air Force's deployment of the advanced F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets to Kadena Air Base, Japan, is part of a strategy aimed at enhancing the nation's security in the space and aerospace industry, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
- With the F-15EX at Kadena equipped with cutting-edge avionics, advanced weapon systems, and expanded offensive and defensive capabilities, it signifies a substantial upgrade in the air force's airpower.
- The permanent basing of 36 F-15EX aircraft at Kadena Air Base is set to provide pilots and maintainers with opportunities to operate next-generation fighter jets in their operational environment, further solidifying their position for potential strategic competition.
- The air force leaders' confidence in the smooth transition to the F-15EX, despite shorter deployments to smaller and more dispersed locations, demonstrates the industry's financial investment in ensuring the success of defense and security measures.
- The U.S. Space Force may also play a role in supporting the F-15EX operations, as Kadena Air Base's strategic presence helps maintain a strong defense posture in the space domain, backed by the combined efforts of the aerospace industry.
