During its latest deployment to Andersen AFB, Guam, for a US Pacific Command Theater Security Package, an F-22 Raptor force from Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, deployed forward again to Kadena AB, Japan, to demonstrate that it can make multiple moves as operations require and to engage in a little practical training with the Kadena-based F-15 force. Elmendorf’s 525th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron pitched its F-22s against Kadena’s 44th Fighter Squadron in defensive counter air attacks. Capt. Robert Ice, an F-22 pilot and assistant chief of mobility for the 525th EFS, explained that the F-15 force “came to our location, but we prevented them from getting by us.” (Andersen report by SSgt. Jennifer Redente)
The Air Force is requesting about $141 million for initial enlistment bonuses in its fiscal 2026 budget, while Space Force wants $13 million.
