How Big is Eglin Air Force Base?
Located in the Panhandle of Florida, Eglin Air Force Base (AFB) is a United States Air Force (USAF) base that plays a crucial role in the country’s military operations. As one of the largest military bases in the world, Eglin AFB covers an enormous area, with a rich history and a diverse range of activities. In this article, we will explore the size of Eglin Air Force Base and what makes it so significant.
Size and Location
Eglin AFB is situated approximately 15 miles southwest of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and 40 miles west of Pensacola, Florida. The base covers an area of 724 square miles (1,877 square kilometers), making it one of the largest military bases in the world. To put that into perspective, Eglin AFB is roughly the size of the city of San Francisco, California.
Land Area Breakdown
The base is divided into several distinct areas, each with its own unique purpose. Here is a breakdown of the land area:
- Operational Area: 444 square miles (1,149 square kilometers)
- Training Area: 173 square miles (448 square kilometers)
- Airspace: 107 square miles (277 square kilometers)
- Support Areas: 30 square miles (78 square kilometers)
- Civilian Area: 20 square miles (52 square kilometers)
Airspace
Eglin AFB has a significant amount of airspace, with 15,000 square miles (39,000 square kilometers) of designated military airspace. This airspace is used for various military operations, including combat training, reconnaissance, and testing.
Runways and Facilities
The base has six runways, with a total length of 21,000 feet (6,400 meters). These runways are used for various military aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and cargo planes. Eglin AFB also has a range of facilities, including hangars, maintenance shops, and ammunition storage facilities.
Military Units and Organizations
Eglin AFB is home to several military units and organizations, including:
- 1st Range Operations Squadron: Responsible for operating and maintaining the base’s air traffic control system.
- 53rd Wing: A fighter wing that operates F-15C and F-15E fighter jets.
- 96th Test Wing: A test wing that conducts flight testing and evaluation of military aircraft.
- 386th Air Expeditionary Wing: A reserve wing that conducts combat operations and training.
Economic Impact
Eglin AFB has a significant economic impact on the surrounding region. The base is a major employer, with over 15,000 military and civilian personnel working on the base. The base also generates $2.5 billion in economic output annually, making it a vital part of the local economy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Eglin Air Force Base is a massive military installation that plays a critical role in the country’s military operations. With its significant land area, airspace, and facilities, the base is capable of supporting a wide range of military activities. The base’s economic impact is also significant, making it a vital part of the local economy.
Key Statistics
| Category | Size |
|---|---|
| Land Area | 724 square miles (1,877 square kilometers) |
| Operational Area | 444 square miles (1,149 square kilometers) |
| Training Area | 173 square miles (448 square kilometers) |
| Airspace | 15,000 square miles (39,000 square kilometers) |
| Runways | 6 |
| Runway Length | 21,000 feet (6,400 meters) |
| Military Personnel | 15,000 |
| Civilian Personnel | 5,000 |
| Economic Output | $2.5 billion |
I hope this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the size of Eglin Air Force Base.
