Boeing F-15EX Fighter Jet Mission for Selfridge Air National Guard Base

By Steven Valinski

Lead Image: David K. Marti/Boeing

All other images: Boeing

April 29, 2025

Harrison Township, MI – In a significant boost to Michigan’s defense infrastructure, U.S. President Donald Trump announced today that Selfridge Air National Guard Base will receive 21 new Boeing F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets to replace the retiring A-10 Warthog squadron. The announcement, made during a visit to the Macomb County base marking his 100th day in office, was met with enthusiastic applause from military personnel and local leaders, signaling a renewed commitment to the base’s future.

Joined by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, and members of the Michigan National Guard, Trump hailed the decision as a “game-changing” step for national security and the local economy. “As Commander in Chief, I’m proud to announce that very soon we will replace the retiring A-10 Warthogs with 21 brand-new F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets, the best in the world,” Trump declared, emphasizing the jets’ role in strengthening homeland defense.

The F-15EX, a modernized fourth-generation fighter equipped with advanced radar, fly-by-wire controls, and enhanced weapon systems, is expected to begin arriving at Selfridge in fiscal year 2028. The move addresses long-standing concerns about the base’s future, as the A-10s are slated for retirement by 2029, potentially threatening jobs and the base’s operational capacity. Selfridge, a cornerstone of Michigan’s defense industry, supports an estimated 30,000 jobs statewide and contributes $850 million annually to the economy.

Governor Whitmer, who has helped champion Selfridge’s modernization, expressed gratitude for the announcement, calling it “crucial for the economy, for our homeland security, the Michigan National Guard, and for our future.” Initially not planning to speak, Whitmer took the podium to thank Trump and underscore the bipartisan effort behind the decision. “All the military men and women who serve our country and serve so honorably on behalf of the state of Michigan, I am really damn happy we’re here,” she said.

The announcement follows years of lobbying by Michigan’s congressional delegation and state officials to secure a new fighter mission for Selfridge. In 2023, lawmakers pushed for increased F-15EX production to bolster the base’s chances, with Representative James securing $122.6 million in the 2025 defense spending bill to expand manufacturing capacity. The Air Force had previously designated Selfridge to receive 12 KC-46A refueling tankers starting in 2029, but the lack of a fighter mission raised fears of downsizing.

Local leaders hailed the announcement as a victory for Macomb County. “This effort to elevate Selfridge has spanned many administrations and stands as a powerful example of what collaboration can accomplish,” said Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel. Former Representative Candice Miller, now Macomb County public works commissioner, called the decision a “monumental win” for the region’s economy and national security.

For now, Selfridge’s 127th Wing and its 107th Fighter Squadron are poised to transition into a new era. The F-15EX’s advanced capabilities, including its ability to carry hypersonic weapons and engage threats at long range, will enhance the base’s role in NORAD’s northern defense strategy. As Brig. Gen. Rolf E. Mammen, commander of the 127th Wing, welcomed Trump to the base, the mood was one of optimism. “This is a new chapter for Selfridge,” Mammen said. “We’re ready to fly, fight, and win.”