Kirtland Air Force Base (Kirtland AFB) is a United States Air Force base located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The base is situated in the southeast part of the city, approximately 5 miles east of the Albuquerque International Sunport and 3 miles southeast of the University of New Mexico. With a total area of over 51,000 acres, Kirtland AFB is one of the largest bases in the Air Force, employing over 23,000 people and contributing significantly to the local economy.
Geographical Location and Climate
Kirtland AFB is nestled in the high desert of New Mexico, at an elevation of approximately 5,300 feet above sea level. The base’s geographical location provides a unique combination of terrain and climate, with the Sandia Mountains to the east and the Rio Grande River to the west. The climate is characterized by low humidity, moderate temperatures, and an average annual rainfall of around 9 inches. The base experiences a semi-arid climate, with cold winters and hot summers, making it an ideal location for various military training and testing activities.
Access and Transportation
Kirtland AFB is easily accessible by air, with the Albuquerque International Sunport located just a few miles away. The base is also connected to the city’s major highways, including Interstate 40 and Interstate 25, making it convenient for personnel and visitors to travel to and from the base. Additionally, the base has its own rail spur, which provides a direct connection to the national rail network. The base’s proximity to the city of Albuquerque and its transportation infrastructure makes it an attractive location for military personnel and their families.
| Location Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 5,300 feet above sea level |
| Average Annual Rainfall | 9 inches |
| Temperature Range | -10°F to 100°F (-23°C to 38°C) |
| Employment | Over 23,000 people |
Mission and Operations
Kirtland AFB is home to the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and the 377th Air Base Wing, among other units. The base plays a critical role in the development, testing, and deployment of nuclear weapons, as well as in the research and development of advanced technologies, including space and missile systems. The base’s mission is to provide support for the nation’s nuclear deterrent, while also contributing to the development of new technologies and systems that enhance the nation’s military capabilities.
Units and Organizations
Kirtland AFB is home to a variety of units and organizations, including the 377th Air Base Wing, the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and the Sandia National Laboratories. These units work together to support the base’s mission, with a focus on nuclear deterrence, research and development, and the testing and deployment of advanced systems and technologies.
Key Points
- Kirtland AFB is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and covers an area of over 51,000 acres.
- The base is home to the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, the Air Force Research Laboratory, and the 377th Air Base Wing, among other units.
- The base plays a critical role in the development, testing, and deployment of nuclear weapons, as well as in the research and development of advanced technologies.
- Kirtland AFB is easily accessible by air, with the Albuquerque International Sunport located just a few miles away.
- The base's unique combination of terrain and climate makes it an ideal location for various military training and testing activities.
Kirtland AFB is a significant contributor to the local economy, with a total economic impact of over $4.5 billion annually. The base is also a major employer in the region, with over 23,000 people working on the base. The base's proximity to the city of Albuquerque and its transportation infrastructure makes it an attractive location for military personnel and their families.
As a major military installation, Kirtland AFB is committed to supporting the nation's defense and security needs, while also contributing to the development of new technologies and systems that enhance the nation's military capabilities. With its unique combination of terrain and climate, and its proximity to the city of Albuquerque, Kirtland AFB is an ideal location for a variety of military training and testing activities, and is likely to remain a significant player in the nation's defense and security efforts for years to come.
What is the primary mission of Kirtland AFB?
+The primary mission of Kirtland AFB is to provide support for the nation’s nuclear deterrent, while also contributing to the development of new technologies and systems that enhance the nation’s military capabilities.
What units are located at Kirtland AFB?
+Kirtland AFB is home to the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center, the Air Force Research Laboratory, the 377th Air Base Wing, and the Sandia National Laboratories, among other units.
What is the economic impact of Kirtland AFB on the local community?
+Kirtland AFB has a total economic impact of over $4.5 billion annually, making it a significant contributor to the local economy.
