Whitmer Signs $152M Bill for Selfridge Base Upgrades, F-15EX Fighter Wing
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer secured $152 million in state funding for Selfridge Air National Guard Base runway upgrades, paving the way for new F-15EX fighter jets.
MACKINAC ISLAND, MICHIGAN — Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation Tuesday to fund runway upgrades at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, securing $152 million in state funding to support the arrival of new F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets at the facility.
The bill signing took place during the Mackinac Policy Conference at Mackinac Island’s Grand Hotel, bringing together key stakeholders in the defense project. The state funding will combine with $792 million in federal commitments to modernize the base’s infrastructure and establish the new fighter wing.
Aggressive Timeline to Meet Federal Deadline
The legislative action aligns with a timeline established by Whitmer and Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall, a Republican from Richland Township. Hall pushed for quick completion of the funding deal to ensure runway repairs and the fighter mission installation occur before President Donald Trump’s current term ends.
“Selfridge Air National Guard Base has long played a role in protecting our country, supporting service members and military families, and strengthening Michigan’s economy,” Whitmer said during the ceremony. “By upgrading runways and infrastructure, we are preparing the base to receive the next generation of fighter jets and making sure Selfridge remains a cornerstone of America’s defense strategy, all the while, creating and supporting defense jobs for decades to come.”
Bipartisan Celebration at Policy Conference
Whitmer emphasized the collaborative nature of the effort during her remarks. “Most importantly, today shows us what’s possible when we work together. We all understand what Selfridge means to Michigan and our country,” she stated.
The governor also characterized the achievement using colorful language, calling the effort and signing a “BFD.” She added with humor, “If you don’t know what that means, I’ll tell you later when we’re at the Pink Pony,” drawing laughs from the assembled crowd.
Economic and Defense Impact
The Selfridge modernization project represents a significant investment in Michigan’s defense infrastructure. The base has served as a key military installation, and the addition of F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets will enhance its strategic importance while creating long-term defense sector employment opportunities.
The timing of the conference allowed business and political leaders to address the Selfridge funding alongside discussions of other pressing Michigan issues. The gathering provided an ideal setting for finalizing the defense project with multiple stakeholders present.
The F-15EX Eagle II represents the latest generation of fighter aircraft technology. The successful funding agreement ensures Michigan will host this advanced fighter capability, strengthening both national defense and the state’s military-industrial presence.
With state and federal funding now secured, infrastructure improvements at Selfridge can proceed on the timeline necessary to meet federal requirements and establish the new fighter wing before the current presidential administration concludes.
