How Big is Whiteman Air Force Base?
Whiteman Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Knob Noster, Missouri, approximately 65 miles southeast of Kansas City. The base is home to the 509th Bomb Wing, which operates the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. As one of the most significant military installations in the region, Whiteman AFB is a significant part of the country’s military infrastructure. In this article, we will explore the size and scope of the base, its history, and its importance in the US military.
How Big is Whiteman Air Force Base?
Whiteman Air Force Base covers an area of 12,500 acres, making it one of the larger military bases in the United States. The base is situated on the north side of Highway 50, approximately 4 miles east of Knob Noster, Missouri.
Base Layout
The base is divided into several distinct areas, including:
- Main Base: This area is home to the majority of the base’s facilities, including the 509th Bomb Wing headquarters, the B-2 hangar, and various support buildings.
- Flight Line: The flight line is where the B-2 bombers are maintained and operated. It features multiple runways, hangars, and support facilities.
- Housing Area: The base’s housing area is home to military personnel and their families, with a range of housing options available.
- Commuter Lots: The base has three commuter lots, providing parking for personnel who commute to work from off-base.
Base Statistics
Here are some key statistics that give an idea of the size and scope of Whiteman Air Force Base:
| Category | Number/Quantity |
|---|---|
| Military Personnel | 2,500 |
| Civilian Employees | 1,500 |
| Base Population | 4,500 |
| B-2 Bombers | 20 |
| Runways | 2 |
| Gates | 5 |
| Homes | 1,200 |
History of Whiteman Air Force Base
Whiteman Air Force Base was originally established in 1942 as a training base for the US Army Air Forces. During World War II, the base was home to the 351st Bomb Group, which operated B-17 Flying Fortress bombers. After the war, the base was redesignated as Whiteman Air Force Base in 1948.
In the 1980s, the base was selected as the home of the new B-2 Spirit stealth bomber, which was then under development. The B-2 made its first flight in 1989 and was officially introduced to the US Air Force in 1997. The 509th Bomb Wing was established in 2000 to operate the B-2, and since then, the base has been a key part of the US military’s nuclear deterrent.
Importance of Whiteman Air Force Base
Whiteman Air Force Base is a critical component of the US military’s nuclear deterrent, providing a strategic presence in the heart of the United States. The base’s B-2 bombers play a key role in providing global strike capabilities, and the base’s personnel and facilities support a range of military operations.
Here are some of the key reasons why Whiteman Air Force Base is important:
- Nuclear Deterrent: The base’s B-2 bombers are capable of delivering nuclear weapons to anywhere in the world, providing a critical component of the US military’s nuclear deterrent.
- Global Strike: The base’s B-2 bombers provide a global strike capability, allowing the US military to respond quickly and effectively to emerging threats.
- Training and Operations: Whiteman AFB serves as a training base for B-2 pilots and maintainers, and is home to a range of military operations and exercises.
- Economic Impact: The base has a significant economic impact on the local community, generating millions of dollars in revenue each year.
Conclusion
Whiteman Air Force Base is a significant military installation, covering an area of 12,500 acres and home to the 509th Bomb Wing’s B-2 Spirit stealth bombers. The base has a rich history, dating back to World War II, and plays a critical role in the US military’s nuclear deterrent and global strike capabilities. With a strong presence of military personnel, civilian employees, and infrastructure, Whiteman AFB is an important part of the US military’s operational capabilities.
