How Big is Tinker Air Force Base?
Tinker Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It is one of the largest and most significant military installations in the state, playing a crucial role in the country’s national defense. In this article, we will explore the size and scope of Tinker Air Force Base, highlighting its key features and statistics.
Size
Tinker Air Force Base covers an area of approximately 6,300 acres (25.5 square kilometers), making it one of the largest Air Force bases in the country. To put this in perspective, the base is roughly the size of the city of Norman, Oklahoma, which has a population of around 120,000 people.
Personnel
The base is home to over 15,000 military personnel, making it one of the largest employers in Oklahoma. Additionally, the base employs around 30,000 civilians, many of whom work in critical support roles such as logistics, maintenance, and administrative services.
Aircraft and Equipment
Tinker Air Force Base is responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) of a significant portion of the Air Force’s aircraft fleet. The base has over 1,000 aircraft and 100,000 aircraft components under its maintenance responsibility. This includes major systems such as engines, landing gear, and fuel systems, as well as smaller components like avionics and electrical systems.
Facilities
The base has a wide range of facilities, including:
- Over 400 buildings, including hangars, maintenance shops, and administrative offices
- 20 miles (32 kilometers) of roads, which are maintained by the base’s own road maintenance unit
- Four golf courses, including the renowned Tinker Air Force Base Golf Course
- Two swimming pools, one of which is an indoor pool
- Three fitness centers, offering a range of exercise equipment and classes
- Base Exchange (BX) and Commissary, offering shopping and dining services to personnel and their families
History
Tinker Air Force Base has a rich history dating back to 1941, when it was established as a major repair depot for the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). During World War II, the base played a critical role in maintaining the USAAF’s aircraft fleet, and its significance continued to grow during the Cold War era.
Statistics
Here are some key statistics about Tinker Air Force Base:
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Acres | 6,300 |
| Military Personnel | 15,000+ |
| Civilian Employees | 30,000+ |
| Aircraft | 1,000+ |
| Aircraft Components | 100,000+ |
| Buildings | 400+ |
| Roads | 20 miles (32 kilometers) |
| Golf Courses | 4 |
| Swimming Pools | 2 |
| Fitness Centers | 3 |
| Base Exchange (BX) and Commissary | 1 |
Conclusion
Tinker Air Force Base is a significant military installation that plays a vital role in the national defense of the United States. Its size, scope, and capabilities make it one of the largest and most important Air Force bases in the country. Whether it’s maintaining aircraft, supporting personnel, or providing recreational facilities, Tinker Air Force Base is a testament to the importance of the military in our society.
Additional Resources
- Tinker Air Force Base Official Website: www.tinker.af.mil
- Tinker Air Force Base Fact Sheet: www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104504/tinker-air-force-base
- Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department: www.travelok.com
