The U.S. launched the process of withdrawal of F-15 Eagle fighters from Kadena Air Base in Japan, where the planes served since 1979

Early last month it became known that the United States would withdraw F-15 Eagle fighters from Kadena Air Base in Japan. This process has already begun.

Here's What We Know

The U.S. Air Force modernization plan involves the decommissioning of single-seat F-15C and two-seat F-15Ds. Some of the fighters from the U.S. Air Force's 18th Air Wing, which were stationed in Japan, will be moved to Kingsley Field National Guard Base in Oregon. Some aircraft will go into preservation.

The F-15 Eagle has provided defense for Japan since 1979. What fighters will be the final replacement for them is unknown at this time. As a temporary measure, the U.S. decided to relocate the F-22 Raptor planes, which are serving in Alaska, to the Kadena air base. The first fifth-generation fighters began arriving at their destination in November.

A contender will be permanently based at the U.S. Air Force's largest base in East Asia could be the newest variant of the F-15, called the F-15EX Eagle II. Another candidate is the F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighter.

Source: Defense Brief, Kadena Air Base