Trump Announces F-15EX Mission at Michigan's Selfridge Base

President Donald Trump announced that Michigan's Selfridge Air National Guard Base will receive a new fleet of F-15EX fighter jets, replacing the retiring A-10s and securing the base's future after years of uncertainty. The move, described as a bipartisan win, saw Trump and Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer appear together and briefly set aside their political rivalry, with both leaders acknowledging the importance of the base to national security and Michigan's economy. Whitmer highlighted the base's significant economic impact and the preservation of thousands of jobs, while Trump credited Whitmer and other officials for their advocacy. The decision comes after extensive lobbying by Michigan officials, with Whitmer emphasizing her long-term efforts to protect the base. Both leaders stressed the base's value to the community and the nation, with Whitmer calling the recapitalization 'crucial' and Trump promising continued support regardless of party lines. The announcement also includes the previously planned arrival of KC-46A refueling tankers, further enhancing the base's capabilities.