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US National Guard Replaces A-10s with Powerful F-15EX Eagle II Fighters Offering Greater Range and Firepower.


A major shift is underway for one of the most prominent units of the United States Air National Guard. The 127th Wing, based at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan, will replace its A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft with 21 new F-15EX Eagle II fighters. President Donald J. Trump announced this development during his visit to Selfridge on April 29, 2025. It marks a new phase for the unit, which has operated the A-10 for the past 15 years.
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With an exceptional payload capacity of 29,500 pounds (13,300 kg), the F-15EX can carry up to 12 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, as well as a wide range of air-to-ground munitions such as SDB I bombs, JDAM GBU-38, and JASSM missiles (Picture source: US DoD )


The F-15EX Eagle II, the latest iteration of the F-15 air superiority fighter, represents the U.S. Air Force's response to evolving peer-level threats. It features a reinforced airframe and a fully digital glass cockpit, incorporates digital fly-by-wire flight controls, the APG-82 AESA radar by Raytheon, and the EPAWSS electronic warfare suite developed by BAE Systems. These systems enhance situational awareness and survivability in contested environments. The F-15EX also uses an open mission system (OMS) software architecture, enabling rapid updates and integration of new capabilities.

With an exceptional payload capacity of 29,500 pounds (13,300 kg), the F-15EX can carry up to 12 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, as well as a wide range of air-to-ground munitions such as SDB I bombs, JDAM GBU-38, and JASSM missiles. It retains an internal M61A1 20mm Vulcan cannon. Its operational range is approximately 2,762 miles (4,445 km), aided by conformal fuel tanks, placing it among the most versatile and enduring fighters. The aircraft can reach speeds exceeding Mach 2.5 and has a service ceiling of 60,000 feet.

Designed for air dominance and long-range strike missions, the F-15EX combines advanced survivability systems and extended range without compromising firepower. Its twin-seat configuration also enables future integration with collaborative combat aircraft (CCA), making it suitable for coordination roles in networked combat environments. It is also interoperable with allied air forces.

This decision aligns with the U.S. Air Force's broader fleet modernization strategy, which began the gradual retirement of the A-10 in 2022. Concerns about Selfridge’s long-term fighter mission had grown, particularly after the base was selected in 2024 as the preferred site for the KC-46A Pegasus tanker. The F-15EX assignment confirms the Air Force’s commitment to maintaining a fighter presence at Selfridge, ensuring the base's continued strategic relevance.

Senior officials, including Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, U.S. Army Major General Paul Rogers, and U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Daniel J. Kramer II joined President Trump. Speaking before approximately 300 service members and media representatives, the delegation confirmed the 127th Wing's future mission and acknowledged the bipartisan efforts behind the decision.

Governor Whitmer emphasized the importance of this move for Michigan's economy and national defense, citing sustained advocacy efforts at both the state and federal levels. She also highlighted the ongoing dedication of Selfridge personnel to national service.

The A-10 mission, operated by the 107th Fighter Squadron and supported by the 127th Maintenance Group, began in 2009 following the phase-out of the F-16 at the base. That transition was completed ahead of schedule, with full operational certification achieved within just two and a half years. Since then, the unit has demonstrated consistent operational performance.

Brigadier General Matthew Brancato, commander of the 127th Wing and Selfridge ANGB, acknowledged the service history of the A-10 and affirmed the unit’s readiness to transition to the F-15EX. He noted the base’s history of adapting to different aircraft, including the F-100 Super Sabre, A-7D Corsair II, F-101 Voodoo, and F-16 prior to the A-10.

The introduction of the F-15EX Eagle II, a multirole fighter with advanced systems, supports national defense priorities and provides Selfridge with a long-term, adaptable mission profile. This change ends a period of uncertainty for the base and ensures its ongoing role within the Michigan Air National Guard.

This transition reflects the future direction of the 127th Wing, equipped with modern systems and redefined responsibilities aligned with the evolving needs of national security.


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