F-15EX returns to Kadena, accelerating the shift to next-generation airpower

Kadena Air Base, Japan — The F-15EX Eagle II returned to Kadena on June 29, 2026, arriving with two F-15E Strike Eagles for a deployment aimed at advancing the base’s transition to the Air Force’s newest fighter. All three aircraft are assigned to the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. The visit follows the Eagle II’s first trip to Kadena last year and gives Airmen additional time to train with the platform at its future home station.

The deployment is part of the effort to replace Kadena’s F-15C/D Eagle fleet with F-15EX aircraft. By operating from Kadena, pilots, maintainers, and support personnel are refining tactics, procedures, and sustainment practices to support long-term operations across the Indo-Pacific. “Building familiarity with the aircraft now will help ensure a smooth transition as the Eagle II becomes part of Kadena’s long-term mission and strengthens combat readiness across the Indo-Pacific,” said Lt. Col. Casey Watts, commander of the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron.

Airmen from across the 18th Wing are using the visit to tighten integration among operations, maintenance, and mission support organizations. The deployment also serves to validate maintenance procedures, logistics requirements, and combat generation capabilities that will underpin future F-15EX operations at the base.

Equipped with advanced avionics, enhanced survivability, modern electronic warfare systems, and increased weapons capacity, the F-15EX is expected to bolster Kadena’s ability to meet evolving security challenges in the region. Operating the aircraft from Kadena gives Airmen firsthand experience with its systems and support needs before it becomes part of daily operations. “The F-15EX represents the next chapter of airpower at Kadena,” said U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. John Gallemore, 18th Wing commander. “Our Airmen have the opportunity to train with the aircraft, build confidence in its capabilities and ensure we’re ready to project lethality and integrate into operations as we continue providing combat power in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific.”

For the 67th Fighter Squadron, slated to become Kadena’s first operational F-15EX unit, the deployment offers another chance to build the operational knowledge and technical expertise required to employ the Eagle II. Integration events with the test aircraft are helping future pilots, maintainers, and support personnel refine tactics and sustainment practices ahead of the aircraft’s arrival on the flight line.

As preparations continue for the F-15EX’s permanent basing, each integration event moves the wing closer to fielding the Eagle II. By bringing together operators, maintainers, and mission support Airmen, the 18th Wing is working to ensure the expertise and readiness needed to employ the aircraft from day one.