442nd Fighter Wing selected as sole candidate to replace A-10s with F-15E Strike Eagles

Published Jul 30, 07:18 PM UTC

The 442nd Fighter Wing at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri, has been selected as the sole candidate location to replace its A-10 Warthogs with 24 F-15E Strike Eagles, securing the reserve unit's flying mission. Rep. Mark Alford announced the decision on July 29, noting it is the first of several regulatory steps. The Air Force Reserve Command must still designate Whiteman as its preferred location, conduct an environmental impact analysis, and make a final decision, with a preferred location decision expected in 2027 and a final decision in 2029. Initial Operational Capability is anticipated in 2032 and Full Operational Capability in 2034. The F-15Es will come from Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, which is transitioning to the F-15EX. The 442nd has flown A-10s since 1982, and its current jets are slated for retirement by end of 2028. The decision ends uncertainty for the unit and contrasts with other Guard and Reserve units that have lost flying missions and converted to cyber or contingency roles.