The Largest Military Air Bases In The USA

The United States has one of the largest militaries in the world, with over a million active personnel. The country’s comprehensive weaponry, state-of-the-art combat technology, and extensive outreach necessitate large military bases. Whether it is a domestic base or an international military service area, the extent of US operations requires space for operational planning, personnel training, and housing.

Military air bases are huge multifunctional complexes, airfields, or bases supporting air operations. They offer amenities such as shopping, entertainment, and social events for military personnel, their families, and civilian employees. This article will list some of the largest US air military based on surface area. These bases are as large as cities with their zip codes.

5

Fort Irwin

Surface area: 1,000 square miles (2590 square kilometers)

According to Military Installations, Fort Irwin is an active military base in California. In the 20th century, the area was designated as the Mojave Anti-Aircraft Gunnery Range and later renamed Camp Irwin in honor of Major General George Irwin, a World War I battle commander. The installation was eventually designated Fort Irwin in 1961 and has been the National Training Center (NTC) since 1981​.

Today, Fort Irwin’s mission is to provide realistic joint and combined arms training, focusing on developing soldiers and leaders for success in modern warfare. It hosts approximately ten training rotations per year, involving thousands of soldiers, and plays a crucial role in shaping military tactics and strategies​.

Fort Irwin offers several housing benefits to qualified military applicants, such as an unbeatable commute, top-tier schools on post, community camaraderie, various amenities, and convenient access to on-base shopping and dining. The Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) covers monthly rent, maintenance, trash disposal, community events, and utilities.

Bicycle Lake Army Airfield (IATA: BYS, ICAO: KBYS, FAA LID: BYS) is a military airport located on the Bicycle dry lake bed, three miles (5 km) northeast of the Fort Irwin cantonment area, in the Mojave Desert of San Bernardino County, California, United States.

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4

Twentynine Palms (MCAGCC)

Surface area: 1100 square miles (2849 square kilometers)

The mission of the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center (MCAGCC) is profoundly focused on conducting live-fire combined arms training, urban operations, and integrating Joint and Coalition forces. This rigorous training is crucial for ensuring operational force readiness. Additionally, MCAGCC provides necessary facilities, services, and support to resident organizations’ military personnel and their families.

MCAGCC’s historical roots can be traced back to 1940 when the US Army utilized the area for training glider crews. However, this focus shifted in 1943 to fighter pilot training, reflecting the dynamic needs of World War II.

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Post-war, the Navy adopted the site as a bombing range until 1945. After a brief period under San Bernardino County’s control, the Marine Corps assumed command in 1952. Initially designated as the Headquarters Marine Corps Training Center, it underwent several transformations, ultimately becoming the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in 1979. This evolution mirrors the changing facets of military strategy and training methodologies over the decades.

Its population comprises 12,500 active-duty Marines and sailors, 24,000 family members, and 21,000 Department of Defense (DoD) personnel and contractors. Notably, the region also supports around 1,200 retirees, attracted by California’s favorable retirement conditions. The installation houses various commands, including the Marine Corps Communications and Electronics School, the 7th Marines Regiment, and more, forming a melting pot of military expertise.

3

Utah Test and Training Range (UTTR)/Hill AFB

Surface area: 2,624 square miles (6796 square kilometers)

Hill Air Force Base (Hill AFB) in Utah is a critical US military player known for its Ogden Air Logistics Center. This center is crucial for maintaining and equipping forces essential for national defense. The 75th Air Base Wing, 388th and 419th Fighter Wings, and 25 other units rely on its support.

The Ogden Air Logistics Complex at Hill AFB excels in providing critical support to combat units. It specializes in maintaining advanced fighter aircraft like the F-35 Lightning II, F-22 Raptor, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and A-10 Thunderbolt. Beyond aircraft, the complex develops software and other vital components for the Department of Defense. With more than 8,100 staff, it operates in the US and Japan.

Hill AFB hosts essential units like the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, serving the Department of Defense and NASA. The 309th Aircraft Maintenance Group handles significant repairs on aircraft, including the F-35 and F-16. The 309th Commodities Maintenance Group focuses on technical repairs of components like landing gear.

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As Utah’s largest single-site employer, Hill AFB has a significant economic footprint. It supports over 22,000 military and civilian jobs and drives substantial economic activity in Layton City and Utah. In 2022, it contributed $1.55 billion to the federal payroll, $4.6 billion to indirect jobs, and $9 billion to the state’s economy.

2

White Sands Missile Range(WSMR)

Surface area: 3,200 square miles (8288 square kilometers)

White Sands Missile Range (WSMR), a cornerstone of the United States defense infrastructure, has established itself as a vital national asset crucial for modernizing national security.

In the Tularosa Basin of south-central New Mexico, with the scenic Organ Mountains in the backdrop, WSMR encompasses an extensive area of 3,200 square miles comparable to Rhode Island and Delaware. Its proximity to Las Cruces, New Mexico, and El Paso, Texas, positions it strategically for military operations.

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The inception of WSMR dates to 1945 and is marked by the world’s first atomic bomb test. Over the past 76 years, WSMR has witnessed the evolution of military technology, conducting over 42,000 rocket and missile tests. This illustrious history has rightfully earned it the title “Birthplace of America’s Missile and Space Activity.”

Currently home to 5,350 people as of 2023, the community includes Army, Air Force, Space Force, and Navy personnel, alongside DoD Civilians, non-appropriated fund (NAF) employees, and contractors.

1

Nellis AFB

Surface area: about 5,000 square miles (12950 square kilometers)

Nellis Air Force Base, situated near Las Vegas, Nevada, is a pivotal part of the Air Combat Command. Nellis is renowned for its advanced combat aviation training, covering about 5,000 square miles and an extra 7,700 miles of airspace. The base boasts various aircraft, including fighters, bombers, and more, catering to combat and support roles.

At Nellis, the 4520th Combat Crew Training Wing focuses on training seasoned pilots in all facets of fighter weapon employment. Additionally, the USAF Tactical Fighter Weapons Center at Nellis is integral in developing tactical fighter weapon employment. It is responsible for developing and testing new fighter concepts and overseeing various training programs, including adversary tactics.

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An interesting aspect of Nellis’ operations was the 4477th Tactical Evaluation Flight, or “Red Eagles.” Using enemy aircraft like MiGs in “Constant Peg” exercises, this operation was crucial in refining strategies for dissimilar air combat training and preparing for potential adversaries.

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