Trump delivers new fighter jets to Michigan base in surprise show of unity with Whitmer

HARRISON TOWNSHIP, Mich. - President Donald Trump announced a major expansion of US air defense capabilities Tuesday, delivering a new fighter jet mission to Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan. The move will replace aging aircraft at the base with 21 F-15EX Eagle II jets—"fresh off the line," according to Trump—and ensure the base’s continued operation after years of uncertainty.

The announcement also marked a surprising political detente between Trump and Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, one of his most vocal critics. Trump praised Whitmer as "very effective" in advocating for the base, while Whitmer expressed gratitude for the outcome without directly naming the president in her remarks.

Why is this air base mission significant for national security?

The backstory:

For years, Selfridge had been at risk of losing its operational relevance as its A-10 fleet approached retirement. Trump addressed those concerns directly, telling service members and supporters, "Today I have come in person to lay to rest any doubt about Selfridge’s future."

He added, "In recent years, many in Michigan have feared for the future of the base. They’ve been calling everybody, but the only one that mattered is Trump."

The new F-15EX jets represent one of the Air Force’s most advanced platforms for homeland defense and strategic deterrence. The decision ensures that Selfridge, located near the US-Canada border, remains a key pillar in North American air defense.

What they're saying:

Trump said Whitmer was instrumental in advocating for Selfridge’s new mission, noting their conversation during a motorcade ride to the base. "She’s been very effective," he said.

Whitmer, in turn, called the mission "crucial for our homeland security and our future." Asked later about their much-discussed greeting, Whitmer told the Associated Press: "We shook hands and he leaned in to tell me, you know, congratulations and that I was a big reason that we were making an announcement today."

U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a visit with Michigan Air National Guard troops on April 29, 2025 at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan.  (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

The moment was noteworthy given the pair’s historically adversarial relationship—and comes as Whitmer continues to raise her national profile.

How does this affect the broader defense and political landscape?

Big picture view:

The new fighter jet mission reinforces Trump’s broader messaging around strengthening America’s military and returning focus to homeland security. It also signals his willingness to reward state-level cooperation, even from Democratic leaders, when aligned with his defense priorities.

Meanwhile, the announcement arrives as the US military continues to reassess domestic base operations, aging fleets, and readiness amid global tensions. Ensuring Selfridge’s future preserves thousands of jobs and economic value—but more importantly, it reflects a broader investment in modernizing air defense infrastructure at home.

Politically, the move could bolster Trump’s image as a dealmaker ahead of a high-stakes midterm cycle, while giving Whitmer a bipartisan achievement in a deeply polarized era.

What's next:

The successful push for Selfridge’s recapitalization could set a precedent for other states lobbying to upgrade or preserve their own installations. With national defense strategies shifting toward high-tech deterrence and rapid response, bases like Selfridge may play a growing role in supporting those missions—especially as older aircraft are phased out nationwide.