Michigan fast-tracks £152M base upgrade for new F-15EX fighter jets

Michigan is pushing ahead with a £152 million renovation of Selfridge Air National Guard Base to prepare for a new fleet of fighter jets. The project, funded by state taxpayers, aims to complete upgrades by the end of 2028—well ahead of earlier estimates. Lawmakers and Governor Gretchen Whitmer are now racing to finalise funding before construction begins next spring.

Plans for the renovations took shape after the US government announced last April that 21 F-15EX Eagle II jets would be stationed at the base. The decision followed a White House meeting between President Trump, Governor Whitmer, and House Speaker Matt Hall. Initially, officials expected the upgrades to take five to seven years, but Michigan's leaders have set a tighter deadline.

Hall has made securing the £152 million a top priority, with legislation expected to move through the state government this week. He stressed that federal funding could not be guaranteed, leaving Michigan taxpayers to cover the full cost. Construction is slated to start by spring break, ensuring the base is ready when the new jets arrive in fiscal year 2028.

Governor Whitmer sees the project as a way to protect military and civilian jobs while positioning Michigan as a key defence and aerospace news hub. The accelerated timeline also aligns with President Trump's term, ensuring the fighter mission remains on track.

The runway renovations will cost Michigan £152 million, with work set to begin in early 2025. If completed by 2028, the upgrades will allow Selfridge to host the new F-15EX Eagle II fleet as planned. The project's success depends on swift legislative action and sustained state funding.