Advanced fighters to temporarily deploy to Kadena through phased F-15 withdrawal

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  • By Staff Report
  • 18th Wing Public Affairs

The U.S. commitment to regional deterrence and the defense of Japan is ironclad.  As part of its modernization plan, the United States Air Force is retiring the F-15 C/D Eagle fleet of aircraft that has been in service for more than 30 years.  

Starting in November, the Department of Defense will commence a phased withdrawal of F-15 C/D aircraft forward-deployed to Kadena Air Base over the next two years. The U.S. will continue to maintain a steady-state presence at Kadena by temporarily deploying newer and more advanced aircraft to backfill the F-15s as they retire.  

While the DOD has not made a decision on the long-term solution, all of the proposals under consideration include advanced capabilities that are superior to the F-15 C/D. Until that decision is made, the DOD will continue to use the Global Force Management process to provide backfill solutions that maintain regional deterrence and bolster our ability to uphold our treaty obligations to Japan. 

Modernizing U.S. capabilities in the Indo-Pacific theater remains a top priority for the U.S. This transition to more capable aircraft at Kadena exemplifies Pacific Air Forces' continued commitment to enhancing the U.S.' posture and strengthening the U.S.-Japan Alliance.