Introduction to Fairchild Air Force Base
Fairchild Air Force Base is a United States Air Force base located in Spokane County, Washington. The base is approximately 12 miles west of Spokane, the second-largest city in Washington. Fairchild AFB is home to the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, which is part of the Air Mobility Command. The base’s primary mission is to provide air refueling and aerial transportation services to support military operations around the world.
History of Fairchild Air Force Base
The history of Fairchild AFB dates back to 1942, when it was established as a B-17 Flying Fortress training base. During World War II, the base played a significant role in training bomber crews and supporting the war effort. In the 1950s and 1960s, the base transitioned to a Strategic Air Command base, with a focus on bomber operations and missile defense. Today, Fairchild AFB is a key player in the Air Mobility Command, providing critical air refueling and aerial transportation services to support military operations worldwide.
Missions and Units
The 92nd Air Refueling Wing is the host unit at Fairchild AFB, and its primary mission is to provide air refueling and aerial transportation services to support military operations. The wing operates the KC-135 Stratotanker, a boeing-built aircraft that is capable of in-flight refueling and cargo transport. Other units stationed at Fairchild AFB include the 141st Air Refueling Wing, which is a Washington Air National Guard unit, and the 92nd Maintenance Group, which provides maintenance support for the base’s aircraft.
Facilities and Infrastructure
Fairchild AFB has a range of facilities and infrastructure to support its military operations. The base has a single runway that is approximately 13,000 feet long, making it suitable for large aircraft operations. The base also has a range of hangars, maintenance facilities, and fuel storage tanks to support its aircraft operations. In addition, the base has a range of support facilities, including barracks, dining facilities, and recreational facilities, to support the quality of life for its personnel.
Economic Impact
Fairchild AFB has a significant economic impact on the local community. The base is one of the largest employers in the Spokane area, with a workforce of over 5,000 personnel. The base also generates significant economic activity through its procurement and contracting activities, with a range of local businesses providing goods and services to support the base’s operations. In addition, the base’s air refueling and aerial transportation services support a range of other military and commercial operations in the region, generating further economic activity.
Environmental Considerations
Fairchild AFB is committed to environmental sustainability and has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact. The base has a comprehensive environmental management system in place, which includes programs to reduce energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation. The base also has a range of conservation initiatives in place, including the protection of endangered species and the preservation of natural habitats.
| Unit | Mission |
|---|---|
| 92nd Air Refueling Wing | Air refueling and aerial transportation |
| 141st Air Refueling Wing | Air refueling and aerial transportation |
| 92nd Maintenance Group | Maintenance support |
📝 Note: The information provided in this article is subject to change and may not reflect the current status of Fairchild Air Force Base.
In summary, Fairchild Air Force Base is a critical component of the United States Air Force, providing air refueling and aerial transportation services to support military operations worldwide. The base has a rich history, dating back to 1942, and has played a significant role in supporting military operations throughout its history. Today, the base is home to a range of units, including the 92nd Air Refueling Wing and the 141st Air Refueling Wing, and has a significant economic impact on the local community. As the base continues to evolve and adapt to changing military requirements, it remains committed to environmental sustainability and supporting the quality of life for its personnel.
What is the primary mission of Fairchild Air Force Base?
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The primary mission of Fairchild Air Force Base is to provide air refueling and aerial transportation services to support military operations worldwide.
What units are stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base?
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The 92nd Air Refueling Wing, the 141st Air Refueling Wing, and the 92nd Maintenance Group are stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base.
What is the economic impact of Fairchild Air Force Base on the local community?
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Fairchild Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, with a workforce of over 5,000 personnel and generating significant economic activity through its procurement and contracting activities.
