Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a bipartisan bill today, allocating $152 million to upgrade Selfridge Air National Guard Base's runways and infrastructure. This crucial funding, secured before a June 1 deadline, is set to unlock $792 million in federal investments and prepare the base for the arrival of new F-15EX fighter jets by 2028, safeguarding over 5,000 jobs at the base and more than 100,000 defense jobs across the state.
Governor Whitmer emphasized the significance of the legislation, stating, "Today’s bill signing is another major bipartisan win for Michigan and for our national security." She added that the upgrades would ensure Selfridge "remains a cornerstone of America’s defense strategy, all the while, creating and supporting defense jobs for decades to come." The bill, House Bill 4572, sponsored by state Representative Ron Robinson, will modernize the base, enhance safety, address drainage, and improve roadways, allowing work to commence this year.
Selfridge Air National Guard Base is a vital economic engine for Michigan, contributing an estimated $850 million to the state's economy and supporting 30,000 jobs. It hosts units from nearly every U.S. Armed Service and plays a key role in the state's $30 billion defense industry. The new F-15EX mission builds on a previous bipartisan success in securing a KC-46A tanker mission for the base, which was announced in January 2024.
U.S. Senator Gary Peters applauded the investment, saying, "Our Michigan delegation has persistently worked to secure new missions for Selfridge, and we will keep fighting to make sure the base is equipped for the arrival of these next-generation tankers and fighter jets." U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Paul D. Rogers, adjutant general and director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, highlighted the urgency, noting, "Meeting this deadline is critical because it allows us to move immediately into the next phase of this project and hire a construction manager so work can begin without delay."
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel thanked state leaders, stating, "This funding commitment from the legislature will guarantee the necessary infrastructure and squad operation enhancements which will welcome our new fighter and tanker squadrons." The collective effort from federal, state, and local leaders aims to ensure Selfridge's continued strategic importance and economic impact for generations, solidifying Michigan's role in national defense.