Mountain Home Air Force Base (AFB) is a United States Air Force base located in Elmore County, Idaho, approximately 8 miles southwest of the city of Mountain Home. The base has a rich history, dating back to its establishment in 1942 as a training base for bomber crews during World War II. Over the years, the base has undergone significant transformations, adapting to the changing needs of the US military and the surrounding community.
History and Development
Mountain Home AFB was initially constructed in 1942, with the primary purpose of training bomber crews for the war effort. The base was officially dedicated on August 1, 1943, and was named after the nearby city of Mountain Home. During World War II, the base played a crucial role in training aircrews for the B-17 Flying Fortress and B-24 Liberator bomber aircraft. After the war, the base was placed in a state of caretaker status, with a significantly reduced personnel presence.
In the 1950s, the base was reactivated and became a key installation for the US Air Force's Strategic Air Command (SAC). The base was home to the 9th Bombardment Wing, which operated the B-47 Stratojet and B-52 Stratofortress bomber aircraft. The base's strategic location and favorable weather conditions made it an ideal location for bomber training and operations. Throughout the Cold War era, Mountain Home AFB continued to play a vital role in the US military's nuclear deterrent capabilities.
Modernization and Current Operations
In the 1990s, the base underwent significant modernization efforts, with the introduction of new aircraft and technologies. The 366th Fighter Wing, which is currently stationed at the base, operates the F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bomber aircraft. The wing’s primary mission is to provide air superiority and precision strike capabilities in support of US military operations worldwide. The base is also home to the 428th Fighter Squadron, which is a geographically separated unit of the 366th Fighter Wing.
In addition to its military operations, Mountain Home AFB is also a significant economic driver for the surrounding community. The base employs over 4,000 military personnel and civilians, making it one of the largest employers in the region. The base's annual economic impact is estimated to be over $150 million, with a significant portion of that amount being spent on local goods and services.
| Unit | Mission |
|---|---|
| 366th Fighter Wing | Air superiority and precision strike |
| 428th Fighter Squadron | F-15E Strike Eagle training and operations |
| 726th Air Control Squadron | Air control and surveillance |
Infrastructure and Facilities
Mountain Home AFB is equipped with a range of modern facilities and infrastructure, including a 13,500-foot runway, a control tower, and a variety of hangars and maintenance facilities. The base is also home to a number of support facilities, including a commissary, a base exchange, and a medical clinic. The base’s housing area includes over 1,000 family housing units, as well as a number of bachelor officer quarters and dormitories.
The base is also equipped with a range of recreational facilities, including a gym, a swimming pool, and a number of sports fields and courts. The base's outdoor recreation program offers a range of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing, taking advantage of the surrounding natural beauty of the Idaho landscape.
Environmental Considerations
Mountain Home AFB is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The base has implemented a range of initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint, including energy-efficient lighting and heating systems, as well as a comprehensive recycling program. The base is also home to a number of protected species, including the greater sage-grouse and the pygmy rabbit, and has implemented measures to protect and conserve these species and their habitats.
The base's environmental management system is certified to ISO 14001 standards, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. The base's environmental team works closely with local and state agencies to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to promote environmental awareness and education throughout the base community.
What is the primary mission of the 366th Fighter Wing?
+The primary mission of the 366th Fighter Wing is to provide air superiority and precision strike capabilities in support of US military operations worldwide.
What type of aircraft is operated by the 428th Fighter Squadron?
+The 428th Fighter Squadron operates the F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bomber aircraft.
What is the estimated annual economic impact of Mountain Home AFB on the surrounding community?
+The estimated annual economic impact of Mountain Home AFB on the surrounding community is over $150 million.
Mountain Home AFB continues to play a vital role in the US military’s operations and training programs. The base’s unique location and facilities make it an ideal location for a range of military activities, from fighter training to environmental conservation. As the base looks to the future, it is committed to maintaining its high standards of operational excellence, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.
