Identifying the longest military airbase runways globally requires navigating various complexities, particularly since many airfields serve both military and civilian purposes. This article focuses on military bases, highlighting the longest dedicated military runways while also acknowledging some significant dual-use and unconventional runways.
The United States dominates the list for a variety of reasons, including its substantial investment in strategic transport and bomber missions. The country benefits from airbases designed to support space missions, further enhancing its operational capabilities. In contrast, Russia, which inherited its military infrastructure from the Soviet Union, does not operate particularly long dedicated military runways. The longest military runways in Russia, such as those at Ukrainka and Engels, measure approximately 11,500 feet (3,505 meters).
6. Ben Guerir Air Base, Morocco
Ben Guerir Air Base ranks sixth with a runway length of 13,720 feet (4,182 meters), extending to approximately 15,720 feet (4,791 meters) under specific conditions. Located in Morocco’s Marraksh-Safi region, near the city of Marrakech, this base originally served as a United States Air Force facility and was designated as a Transatlantic Abort Landing site for the Space Shuttle.
Established in 1951 during the early Cold War, Ben Guerir was deactivated as a NASA site in 2005 after supporting around 83 missions. Today, it functions as a crucial Royal Moroccan Air Force base, hosting several F-16 Fighting Falcon squadrons. There are ongoing negotiations regarding Morocco’s potential acquisition of the F-35 stealth fighter, positioning Ben Guerir as a future base for this advanced aircraft.
5. Eielson Air Force Base, USA
Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska boasts a runway measuring 14,530 feet (4,429 meters), making it one of the longest in the world. The base is primarily used for Arctic training exercises, including the renowned Red Flag operations that involve fighter jets from both the US and allied forces.
The runway’s length is strategically significant, enabling the base to accommodate heavy fuel loads and operations in extremely cold winter conditions. Originally extended in the late 1940s to support heavy bombers, Eielson has hosted various aircraft types, including the B-29 Superfortress and B-36 Peacemaker. Currently, the 354th Fighter Wing operates from this base, underscoring its vital role in US military operations.
4. Vandenberg Space Force Base, USA
Vandenberg Space Force Base, with a runway length of 15,000 feet (4,572 meters), primarily supports space launch activities. Previously a US Air Force base, it was renamed in 2021 to reflect the establishment of the Space Force, which operates within the Department of the Air Force.
The runway (Runway 12/30) was once an emergency landing site for the Space Shuttle. Vandenberg continues to facilitate strategic transport for large defense aircraft, such as the C-5 and C-17, providing flexibility for military operations. Established in 1941, the base has hosted numerous civil and commercial space launches, positioning it as a critical hub for both military and civilian aerospace endeavors.
3. Edwards Air Force Base, USA
Edwards Air Force Base features the longest paved runway dedicated to military use, measuring 15,024 feet (4,579 meters). This base is renowned for its testing of experimental aircraft and has played a pivotal role in aviation history. The site is considered the largest Air Force installation by land area and is home to the 412th Test Wing, which oversees operations for over 10,000 personnel.
Noteworthy events at Edwards include Chuck Yeager’s breaking of the sound barrier with the Bell X-1 and the historic flight of the North American X-15. The base has also served as a landing site for the Space Shuttle, further emphasizing its significance in military aviation.
2. Shigatse Peace Airport, China
Shigatse Peace Airport in Tibet, China, features a runway length of 16,404 feet (5,000 meters). Although primarily a dual-use facility, it merits mention for its strategic significance. The thin air at high altitudes necessitates longer runways for optimal aircraft performance, making Shigatse one of the longest viable runways globally.
While the airport serves both civilian and military functions, it is part of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) strategy in the region. The altitude of Shigatse, at 12,408 feet, presents unique challenges for aircraft operations, necessitating longer takeoff and landing distances.
1. Edwards Air Force Base, USA
The longest usable surface classified as a runway is located at Edwards Air Force Base, specifically the Rogers Dry Lakebed, which spans over 39,060 feet (11,905 meters). Though not officially designated as a runway, it serves as a critical testing site for experimental aircraft. The primary paved runway at Edwards, Runway 04R/22L, measures 15,024 feet, connecting to the expansive dry lakebed.
NASA has utilized the lakebed for various purposes, including testing and landing operations. The combination of the paved runway and the dry lakebed allows for extensive operational flexibility, supporting a wide range of military and aerospace activities.
In summary, these airbases not only underline the strategic capabilities of their respective nations but also reflect the evolving nature of military aviation and the significance of long runways in supporting advanced aircraft operations.
