Where is the Naval Base in Hawaii?
Hawaii, a US state located in the Pacific Ocean, is home to several military bases, including the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. Located on the island of Oahu, the Pearl Harbor Naval Base is one of the largest and most significant naval bases in the United States. In this article, we will explore the history of the naval base, its significance, and what it offers.
History of the Pearl Harbor Naval Base
The Pearl Harbor Naval Base has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. In 1899, the US Navy established a naval station at Pearl Harbor, which was then a small, uninhabited island. The station was initially used as a coaling station and repair facility for US Navy ships. In the early 20th century, the Navy began to expand its presence in Hawaii, and by the 1930s, the Pearl Harbor Naval Base had become a major hub for naval operations.
What is the Pearl Harbor Naval Base?
The Pearl Harbor Naval Base is a US Navy base located on the west coast of Oahu, Hawaii. The base is situated approximately 13 miles west of Honolulu, the state capital. The base is home to over 10,000 military personnel, civilians, and contractors, making it one of the largest employers in the state. The base covers an area of approximately 5,200 acres, which includes land and water areas.
What are the Major Units of the Pearl Harbor Naval Base?
The Pearl Harbor Naval Base is home to several major units, including:
• Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard: The shipyard is responsible for maintaining and repairing US Navy ships, submarines, and other vessels. The shipyard has undergone significant renovations and expansions over the years to keep up with the Navy’s increasing demands.
• United States Pacific Fleet: The Pacific Fleet is one of the five naval fleets in the US Navy, and it is headquartered at Pearl Harbor. The fleet is responsible for defending US interests in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Pearl Harbor Joint Strike Fighter Operations: The Joint Strike Fighter Operations is responsible for training and operating F-35C Lightning II fighter jets, which are the newest addition to the US Navy’s fighter jet fleet.
• Aegis Ashore: Aegis Ashore is a land-based ballistic missile defense system designed to protect Hawaii and other US territories from ballistic missile threats.
What is the Significance of the Pearl Harbor Naval Base?
The Pearl Harbor Naval Base is significant for several reasons:
• Defense: The base provides a strategic location for the US Navy to defend the US interests in the Asia-Pacific region.
• Operations: The base is home to several major naval units, including the Pacific Fleet, which provides a secure and reliable hub for naval operations.
• Employment: The base is one of the largest employers in the state of Hawaii, providing employment opportunities for thousands of military personnel, civilians, and contractors.
• Economic Impact: The base has a significant economic impact on the state of Hawaii, generating billions of dollars in economic activity each year.
Table: Key Statistics about the Pearl Harbor Naval Base
Statistic | Value |
---|---|
Area | 5,200 acres |
Personnel | 10,000+ |
Contractors | 2,500+ |
Ships and Submarines | 50+ |
F-35C Lightning II Jets | 12+ |
Ballistic Missiles Defended | Thousands |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pearl Harbor Naval Base is a significant military installation located in Hawaii, serving as a key hub for US Navy operations in the Asia-Pacific region. The base has a rich history, a strategic location, and is home to several major naval units, including the Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, and Joint Strike Fighter Operations. With thousands of military personnel, civilians, and contractors employed, the base has a significant impact on the state of Hawaii’s economy and employment market.