The Pentagon has received additional funding and will be able to buy two more modernised fourth-generation F-15EX Eagle II fighters for the Air National Guard Air Force
One U.S. Air National Guard Air Force base will receive two additional F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets. This was made possible by an amendment to the National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2024.
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The amendment was offered by House of Representatives member John James, a Republican from the State of Michigan. It would increase advance funding by $30.6 million, enough to order two additional aircraft.
I testified in support of my amendment in the NDAA that would bring a new fighter mission to Selfridge ANGB. It's unacceptable not to have a fighter mission at Selfridge, and I remain committed to fighting for this vital base, not just for #MI10 but our national security. pic.twitter.com/N1vm3p4lYd
- Rep. John James (@RepJames) July 12, 2023
The F-15EX Eagle II is an improved version of the F-15 Eagle fighter. The upgraded aircraft received new avionics and electronic warfare systems. The U.S. Air Force now has only two fighters in service. Six more were due to arrive last December, but deliveries have been delayed due to production problems at Beoing.
A pair of fighters will be ordered for the Air National Guard Air Force Base, which has no aircraft to replace the A-10 Thunderbolt II. The legendary attack aircraft will be retired by the end of this decade. One of the contenders is Selfridge Base (Selfridge), Michigan. The 127th Wing (127th Wing) is based here.
A total of $92 million appeared in the NDAA, which will allow the U.S. Air Force to purchase an additional six F-15EX Eagle II fighters in 2025. Total aircraft procurement costs in 2024 will reach $350 million.
Thus, the U.S. Air Force will buy 32 modernised F-15EX fighters in 2025. The total procurement volume will increase from 104 to 112 aircraft. Including the 48 F-35 Lightning IIs, the service will order 80 fighters in 2025, eight more than the recommended threshold.
Source: Defence News
