The US Department of War is preparing to launch a major modernisation program for a key fighter air base in Alaska to support future Air Force operations in the strategically important Arctic and Pacific regions, The War Zone reports, citing data from the US Air Force and the Army Corps of Engineers.
Approximately $7 billion has been allocated for the reconstruction and expansion of Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage. The project is designed to reduce vulnerabilities and ensure the continuation of critical operations during wartime.
Plans include a comprehensive overhaul of the base’s infrastructure, including the expansion of two runways, construction of new aircraft hangars with varying levels of protection, and the development of a large training and testing complex.
In addition to hosting dozens of fifth-generation F-22 fighter jets, E-3 Sentry AWACS airborne early warning and control aircraft, and C-17 Globemaster heavy transport planes, the base is expected to accommodate RC-135V/W Rivet Joint strategic signals intelligence aircraft.
According to the publication, this reflects growing demand for operations involving such aircraft, as the base’s location is highly advantageous for intelligence-gathering missions across areas of interest in the North Pacific and the increasingly strategic Arctic region.
The War Zone also noted that, due to its strategic position, the base is expected to host the next-generation F-47 stealth fighter in the future. The aircraft is anticipated to make its maiden flight in 2028.
The F-47 is expected to become the centrepiece of the base and a key factor in enhancing the US Air Force's combat capabilities in the region. As a result, at least part of the modernisation program will be specifically tailored to meet the operational requirements of the future sixth-generation fighter, the report said.
By Jeyhun Aghazada
