Where is Kirtland Air Force Base?
Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB) is a United States Air Force (USAF) base located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Specifically, it is situated about 3 miles (4.8 km) east of downtown Albuquerque, at an elevation of 5,900 feet (1,800 meters) above sea level.
Location and Geography
Kirtland Air Force Base is nestled in the high desert of central New Mexico, surrounded by the Sandia Mountains to the east and the Rio Grande River to the west. The base is accessible via Interstate 40 and Interstate 25, making it easily reachable by car or public transportation.
Base Overview
Kirtland Air Force Base is a major military installation and a significant economic driver in the state of New Mexico. The base is home to Air Education and Training Command (AETC), which is responsible for training pilots, aircrew, and maintenance personnel for the USAF. KAFB is also a center for research and development, with several units focused on advanced technology and innovation.
Units and Operations
Kirtland Air Force Base is home to several units, including:
- 58th Special Operations Wing: Provides training and support for special operations forces.
- 27th Special Operations Wing: Conducts special operations missions, including combat search and rescue, personnel recovery, and intelligence gathering.
- 377th Air Base Wing: Provides base operations, maintenance, and support services.
- Kirtland Air Force Base Research and Development: Conducts research and development in areas such as aerodynamics, materials science, and propulsion systems.
History
Kirtland Air Force Base has a rich history dating back to 1922, when it was established as Rockwell Field. During World War II, the base played a significant role in the war effort, serving as a training center for pilots and aircrew. In the 1950s and 1960s, Kirtland AFB became a major hub for military space operations, supporting the development of the Mercury and Gemini space programs.
Points of Interest
Kirtland Air Force Base is surrounded by numerous points of interest, including:
- Sandia Peak Tramway: A 2.7-mile (4.3 km) long aerial tram that takes visitors to the top of Sandia Peak.
- Old Town Albuquerque: A historic district with adobe buildings, shops, and restaurants.
- Albuquerque BioPark: A zoo, aquarium, and botanic garden complex.
- University of New Mexico: A public research university located just west of the base.
Statistics and Facts
Here are some key statistics and facts about Kirtland Air Force Base:
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Base Size | 51.6 square miles (133.7 km²) |
| Population | approximately 10,000 active-duty personnel, 15,000 civilians, and 1,000 military retirees |
| Annual Budget | over $1 billion |
| Employment | generates over $2 billion in economic impact annually |
| Air Traffic | handles over 100,000 takeoffs and landings annually |
Conclusion
Kirtland Air Force Base is a significant military installation and economic driver in the state of New Mexico. Located in Albuquerque, the base is home to various units and operations, including research and development, training, and special operations missions. With its rich history and numerous points of interest, KAFB is an important part of the region’s culture and economy.
