The two jets, serial numbers 22-0022 and 22-0023, flew from Portland via Honolulu with aerial refueling support. The 18th Wing’s 44th and 67th Fighter Squadrons will operate the new jets.
Kadena began withdrawing its F-15C/D fleet in November 2022 after more than four decades of service, and the base’s F-15Cs had left by March 2025 as they reached the end of their service lives. Fourth- and fifth-generation fighters rotated through Kadena to maintain a continuous fighter presence during the transition.
“These aircraft strengthen our ability to deter aggression, respond to emerging threats, and defend Japan alongside our allies and partners,” said Brig. Gen. John Gallemore, commander of the 18th Wing. “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 F-15EX brings upgraded avionics and electronic warfare systems to Kadena and can carry more weapons than the aircraft it replaces. The Air Force says the new fighters will expand Kadena’s ability to counter airborne threats, fly alongside fifth-generation aircraft and help maintain readiness with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and other regional partners.
Pilots from the 67th Fighter Squadron trained at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida and at Portland to maintain their flying skills and qualify on the F-15EX. “Now our focus shifts to integrating the aircraft into our flying operations, building experience as a squadron, and learning how to get the most out of its capabilities,” said Lt. Col. Ajay Dua, the squadron’s commander.
The 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron spent years preparing with Boeing and Air Force teams at Eglin and Portland, and its crews also supported F-15E operations at bases in North Carolina and Idaho. “The arrival of the F-15EX represents years of hard work and dedication from our maintainers,” said Maj. Spencer A. Sherman, the maintenance squadron’s commander.
The Oregon Air National Guard’s 142nd Wing said two F-15EXs had flown at Portland with conformal fuel tanks and gave no reason for the flights. Photos taken by aircraft spotters suggest the tanks came from the Air Force’s F-15E Strike Eagle stocks.
The Department of War left new conformal tanks out of its initial production orders for 98 F-15EXs to keep costs down, given the aircraft’s planned air defense role over the continental United States. The tanks extend range and add pylons for weapons, including air-to-ground munitions.
The department decided in 2026 to substantially increase the number of F-15EXs it plans to order. At Kadena, the first deliveries come ahead of the 18th Wing’s centennial in 2027, marking 100 years since its activation as the 18th Pursuit Group at Wheeler Field, Hawaii, on Jan. 21, 1927.
