McENTIRE JOINT NATIONAL GUARD BASE, S.C. – A critical infrastructure upgrade is underway at McEntire Joint National Guard Base as the South Carolina Air National Guard takes a significant step toward expanding its ability to support joint and transient air operations. 

The ongoing project to widen the base’s primary taxiway marks a strategic investment in immediate mission capability and long-term operational flexibility.

The widening project is designed to better accommodate the aircraft that use McEntire’s airfield, not only the 169th Fighter Wing’s F-16 Fighting Falcons but also the larger fixed-wing aircraft from sister services and other units that routinely participate in joint training events and deployment operations.

“This project secures McEntire’s airfield longevity while enhancing the base’s ability to integrate more seamlessly with the broader joint force,” said Lt. Col. Gareth Fleischer, commander of the 169th Civil Engineer Squadron. “As we continue to support operations that range from training missions to Defense Support of Civil Authorities, it’s imperative that our infrastructure evolves with the pace of our partnerships.”

The expanded taxiway allows transient aircraft, including cargo, medevac and aerial refueling platforms, to have greater clearance for safe ground movement. That will reduce risk and enable simultaneous operations. This improvement will increase the airfield’s daily capacity and streamline operations during high-tempo events such as deployments, hurricane response and major multi-agency exercises.

It also enhances McEntire’s ability to support Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concepts by enabling rapid turnarounds and increasing the amount of mission-essential assets.

“This isn’t just about convenience—it’s about capability,” said Col. Shaun Bowes, commander of the 169th Fighter Wing. “By widening the taxiway, we’re enhancing safety margins and positioning ourselves to host a broader spectrum of aircraft without delay. That flexibility makes us a more valuable partner during state emergencies and enhances our posture while supporting national defense.”

The project builds upon recent airfield upgrades, including a $30 million runway reconstruction completed in 2023. It is part of an overarching modernization strategy to ensure McEntire remains mission-ready for decades to come. Once finished, the wider taxiway will support the South Carolina Air National Guard’s ongoing efforts to build a more resilient, responsive and strategically agile force.

“Every inch of concrete laid on this project is a step toward a more capable and connected future,” said Chief Master Sgt. Steve Thomas, the airfield manager assigned to the 169th Operations Squadron. “It’s about ensuring McEntire remains a reliable, capable partner for whatever mission comes next.”