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THESE ARE THE LARGEST U.S. MILITARY BASES IN THE WORLD


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largest us military bases

The United States maintains one of the world's most extensive military presences, with approximately 2.86 million active-duty personnel spread across domestic and international installations. As of 2025, the U.S. operates over 750 military bases across more than 80 countries, reflecting America's global strategic commitments and defense obligations.

When discussing the largest U.S. military bases, it's important to distinguish between two key metrics: population and land area.

The largest US military bases by population house the most service members, families, and civilian personnel, while the largest US military bases by square miles encompass vast training areas and operational spaces. Some bases excel in both categories, while others specialize in one area.

This article examines the largest US military bases domestically and the largest US military bases overseas, categorized by both population and physical size.

Understanding these installations provides insight into America's defense infrastructure and strategic priorities worldwide.

The 5 Largest US Military Bases by Population

1. Fort Hood, Texas

Fort Hood stands as the most populous U.S. military installation, supporting approximately 635,000 people according to recent estimates. Located in Killeen, Texas, this massive Army base spans 218,000 acres and serves as home to the 1st Cavalry Division and 1st Armored Division.

Established in 1942, Fort Hood specializes in training armored and mechanized units, making it the only facility capable of training two full armored divisions simultaneously.

2. Fort Bragg, North Carolina

Home to approximately 260,000 people, Fort Bragg serves as headquarters for the XVIII Airborne Corps and the 82nd Airborne Division.

This installation plays a pivotal role in Special Operations Forces, housing the United States Army Special Operations Command (USASOC).

The base covers 163,000 acres near Fayetteville and has been operational since 1918.

3. Fort Campbell, Kentucky/Tennessee

Straddling the Kentucky-Tennessee border, Fort Campbell houses approximately 250,000 people, including active-duty soldiers, family members, and retirees.

This installation serves as home to the renowned 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), known as the "Screaming Eagles," and the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment.

The base covers 105,000 acres and has earned recognition for its rapid deployment capabilities and humanitarian mission support.

4. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington

This combined Army and Air Force installation supports approximately 250,000 personnel across its facilities. Created in 2010 through the merger of Fort Lewis and McChord Air Force Base, JBLM serves as a crucial hub for Pacific operations.

The base houses the 2nd Infantry Division Stryker Brigade Combat Team and the 62nd Airlift Wing, covering 647 square miles including the Yakima Training Center.

5. Camp Humphreys, South Korea

The largest overseas U.S. military base by population, Camp Humphreys houses over 45,000 personnel. Located in Pyeongtaek, approximately 40 miles south of Seoul, this installation serves as headquarters for United States Forces Korea.

The base has undergone massive expansion in recent years, reaching 3,538 acres and representing America's commitment to regional security in Asia.

The 5 Largest US Military Bases by Square Miles

1. Nellis Air Force Range, Nevada

The Nellis Air Force Range encompasses approximately 4,531 square miles of restricted airspace and land, making it the largest military training area in the United States.

Supporting 9,500 personnel, this facility provides advanced combat aviation training for fighters, bombers, and support aircraft.

The range includes the famous "Red Flag" training exercises that prepare aircrews for combat operations.

2. White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico

Spanning 3,200 square miles, White Sands serves as the Army's premier missile testing facility. Established in 1945, this installation supports 1,651 personnel and conducts research, development, and testing of guided missile systems.

The facility also serves as an alternate landing site for space missions and provides testing capabilities for international allies.

3. Barry M. Goldwater Range, Arizona

This Air Force and Marine Corps training area covers 2,500 square miles and supports 705 personnel.

Established in 1941, the range provides aerial gunnery training, tactical maneuvering, and electronic warfare exercises.

The facility trains approximately 95% of fighter pilots who deploy to combat operations, making it crucial for military readiness.

4. Fort Bliss, Texas/New Mexico

Covering an impressive 1,875 square miles across Texas and New Mexico, Fort Bliss ranks as one of the largest military installations by land area.

This Army base supports approximately 175,000 people and specializes in artillery and missile defense training.

Established in 1848, Fort Bliss houses the 1st Armored Division and provides extensive space for weapons testing and tactical exercises.

5. Eglin Air Force Base, Florida

Covering 720 square miles, Eglin Air Force Base serves as the largest individual Air Force base by land area. Supporting 71,500 personnel, this installation specializes in weapons development, testing, and evaluation.

The base houses the 96th Test Wing and provides unique training environments for Special Operations forces at auxiliary fields like Hurlburt Field.

The Largest U.S. Military Bases... for Now?

America's largest military bases represent decades of strategic planning and investment in national defense. Whether measured by population or land area, these installations demonstrate the scale and scope of U.S. military operations worldwide.

From Fort Hood's massive personnel strength to Nellis Air Force Range's expansive training areas, the largest U.S. military bases each serve specific operational requirements while contributing to overall military readiness.

These facilities continue evolving to meet emerging security challenges while maintaining America's global defense commitments.

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