U.S. Air Force Showcases F-22A Raptors and F-15C Eagles in Readiness Exercise at Kadena Air Base

On January 15, 2025, the U.S. Air Force conducted a large-scale readiness exercise at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, emphasizing the operational capabilities of the F-22A Raptors and F-15C Eagles. This exercise demonstrated the strategic importance of Kadena as a critical hub for U.S. military operations in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly as tensions remain high in the area.

The F-22A Raptors, deployed from the 525th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson, Alaska, joined forces with F-15C Eagles from Kadena’s 67th Fighter Squadron. Together, these fourth- and fifth-generation fighters showcased advanced interoperability and tactical readiness, reinforcing their role as a deterrent against potential regional threats.

Kadena: The Keystone of the Pacific

Kadena Air Base is central to the U.S. Air Force’s Indo-Pacific strategy, hosting a variety of airframes to enhance operational flexibility. Master Sgt. Benjamin Alesse, production superintendent for the 67th Fighter Squadron, highlighted the significance of Kadena's infrastructure, stating, “Kadena is one of the bases that has so many different airframes that make it the Keystone of the Pacific.”

As part of ongoing modernization efforts, Kadena has integrated transitional fighter squadrons to ensure continuous readiness. This includes the deployment of F-16C Fighting Falcons from the 77th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and F-35A Lightning IIs from the 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron. These advanced aircraft provide vital coverage while the F-15C/D Eagles are gradually returned to the United States for upgrades and maintenance.

Specifications of the F-22A Raptor and F-15C Eagle

The F-22A Raptor is a fifth-generation stealth fighter renowned for its unmatched air superiority capabilities. Its specifications include:

• Speed: Over Mach 2.0 (supercruise without afterburner)
• Range: 1,600 nautical miles with internal fuel
• Armament: Six AIM-120 AMRAAMs, two AIM-9 Sidewinders, and a 20mm M61A2 cannon
• Unique Features: Stealth design, advanced avionics, and supermaneuverability

The F-15C Eagle, a fourth-generation fighter, remains a formidable airframe with proven combat performance. Key specifications include:

• Speed: Mach 2.5
• Range: 1,967 nautical miles with external tanks
• Armament: Eight air-to-air missiles, including AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM, and AIM-9 Sidewinder
• Unique Features: Exceptional climb rate, radar range, and weapons-carrying capacity

Training for Operational Excellence

To ensure seamless operations, the Air Force leverages Kadena's diverse fleet to conduct advanced training exercises. One critical component of this readiness is "hot-pit" refueling, which allows aircraft to refuel quickly without shutting down their engines. Master Sgt. Alesse noted the recent certification of Kadena's crew chiefs on hot-pit refueling for F-16s, highlighting the base's adaptability to support various platforms.

By integrating multiple airframes and fostering joint training, Kadena Air Base reinforces the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. This readiness exercise underscores the pivotal role of advanced airpower in deterring aggression and supporting allied operations across the Indo-Pacific.