Discover the Seven Largest US Air Force Bases by Personnel

The United States Air Force (USAF) is a critical component of the US Armed Forces, ranking third in troop count with over 300,000 active duty members. While the US Navy leads with approximately 350,000 personnel and the US Army stands at over 450,000, the Air Force plays a vital role in national defense. As the highest-funded military branch, surpassing the Army in 2025, the USAF operates numerous bases essential to its mission. Here is an overview of the seven largest Air Force bases by personnel and their unique functions.

1. Joint Base San Antonio: The Largest Military Installation

With a staggering 67,000 troops, Joint Base San Antonio (JBSA) is the largest Department of Defense installation by population. This facility integrates three major bases: Fort Sam Houston, Lackland Air Force Base, and Randolph Air Force Base. Under the command of the USAF’s 502nd Air Base Wing, JBSA serves as a hub for training and operations.

JBSA-Lackland is the sole site for all Air Force enlisted Basic Military Training. The 37th Training Wing is the largest training wing in the Air Force, graduating more than 80,000 students annually. Additionally, JBSA-Randolph houses the headquarters of Air Education and Training Command and plays a critical role in pilot training.

2. Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson: Strategic Power in Alaska

Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage, Alaska, hosts around 40,000 personnel, including 22,000 active-duty military. Formed from the merger of Elmendorf Air Force Base and Fort Richardson Army post in 2010, JBER is vital for US interests in the Arctic and Pacific regions.

The base accommodates the Headquarters for the Alaskan Command and NORAD Region and operates a fleet that includes F-22 Raptors and C-17 Globemaster IIIs. JBER plays a crucial role in air defense, frequently intercepting foreign aircraft near US airspace.

3. Wright-Patterson Air Force Base: Center for Research and Development

Near Dayton, Ohio, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base employs approximately 38,000 individuals, including military, civilian, and contractor personnel. This base is a cornerstone for research and logistics, serving as the headquarters for Air Force Materiel Command.

Home to the Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson leads in scientific research and technology development. It also houses the National Air and Space Intelligence Center, which analyzes international air and space threats.

4. Hill Air Force Base: Logistics and F-35 Operations

Located in Northern Utah, Hill Air Force Base employs about 27,000 personnel. As the largest single-site employer in the state, it is known for logistics and F-35 operations. The base supports the Air Force Materiel Command and is responsible for worldwide logistics and maintenance.

The 75th Air Base Wing serves as the host unit, while the 388th and 419th Fighter Wings operate the F-35A Lightning II. Hill AFB is also involved in the Ground-Based Strategic Deterrent program, which focuses on intercontinental ballistic missile systems.

5. Eglin Air Force Base: Testing and Development Hub

Eglin Air Force Base in Florida is the largest Air Force installation by land area and employs over 20,000 personnel. It is primarily dedicated to testing and developing air-delivered weapons. The 96th Test Wing oversees testing and evaluation of Air Force weapon systems.

Eglin is home to the Munitions Directorate, a leader in advancing weapons technology. The base also supports joint training for various services, including the maintenance and operation of the F-35 Lightning II.

6. Nellis Air Force Base: Advanced Combat Training

Located just outside Las Vegas, Nellis Air Force Base is a premier site for advanced combat aviation training, employing around 14,000 troops. Nellis hosts the Air Force Warfare Center and is known for exercises like Red Flag and Green Flag-West.

The base oversees the vast Nevada Test and Training Range, which provides a unique environment for military training. Nellis is also home to the USAF Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, showcasing aerial precision and performance.

7. Travis Air Force Base: Gateway to the Pacific

Travis Air Force Base in Northern California, often called the “Gateway to the Pacific,” is the busiest air terminal for the US military. It employs over 13,000 personnel and is a key component of the Air Mobility Command.

The 60th Air Mobility Wing operates a versatile fleet, including C-5 Galaxy and KC-46 Pegasus aircraft, providing essential global mobility. The base also hosts the David Grant USAF Medical Center, which serves as the flagship hospital for the Air Force Medical Service.

These seven Air Force bases exemplify the importance of infrastructure and personnel in maintaining the operational readiness of the United States Air Force, ensuring its ability to respond to global challenges effectively.