LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — The $152 million Selfridge Air National Guard Base runway project is ready to take off.

Federal, state and local officials, along with leaders from the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA), broke ground Wednesday. The investment marks a key milestone as the installation prepares for its future F-15EX Eagle II fighter aircraft and KC-46 Pegasus tanker missions.

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The bipartisan project received state funding earlier this year through legislation approved by lawmakers and signed by Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. President Donald Trump announced the new F-15EX fighter mission during a visit to Selfridge in April 2025.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the DMVA, said the upgrades are critical to Selfridge’s future missions.

“Through strong partnerships among state, federal and local leaders, we are advancing the critical infrastructure needed to support the F-15EX Eagle II and KC-46 Pegasus missions and ensure Selfridge remains a vital part of our nation’s defense,” he said.

Selfridge plays a key military role for Michigan and the nation. Its 127th Wing provides combat aircraft and aerial refueling for operations worldwide. The base also supports a military training network that includes Camp Grayling and the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center. It hosts U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations, adding to its homeland security role.

The improvements extend beyond the base, including the relocation and reconstruction of a portion of William P. Rosso Highway between Interstate 94 and Jefferson Avenue. That work will help accommodate the runway expansion and Selfridge’s next generation of military aircraft.