Intro
Discover 5 key facts about Cannon Air Force Base, a US Air Force facility, highlighting its military operations, aircraft maintenance, and personnel training, showcasing its significance in national defense and security strategies.
The history and operations of military bases are often shrouded in mystery, with the general public knowing very little about these strategic installations. One such base is Cannon Air Force Base, located in the state of New Mexico, USA. Cannon Air Force Base has a rich history and plays a significant role in the country's defense mechanisms. Here are five interesting facts about Cannon Air Force Base that shed light on its importance and operations.
Cannon Air Force Base has been in operation since 1942, initially as a training base for the United States Army Air Forces. Over the years, the base has undergone several transformations, with its primary mission changing from training to combat operations. The base is currently home to the 27th Special Operations Wing, which is part of the Air Force Special Operations Command. This wing is responsible for conducting a wide range of special operations, including counterterrorism, direct action, and unconventional warfare.
The base is named after General John K. Cannon, a renowned military strategist and aviator. General Cannon played a crucial role in shaping the United States Air Force into the powerful force it is today. He was a pioneer in the field of air power and was instrumental in developing the concept of strategic bombing. The base was renamed in his honor in 1957, recognizing his contributions to the development of the United States Air Force.
Cannon Air Force Base is strategically located in the eastern part of New Mexico, providing easy access to the rest of the country. The base is situated near the city of Clovis, which offers a range of amenities and services to the personnel stationed at the base. The base itself is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a runway, hangars, and maintenance facilities. The base also has a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, swimming pool, and gymnasium.
The base is home to a range of aircraft, including the MC-130J Commando II, the AC-130J Ghostrider, and the MQ-9 Reaper. These aircraft are used for a variety of missions, including special operations, transport, and reconnaissance. The base is also equipped with a range of support facilities, including fuel storage, ammunition storage, and maintenance facilities. The base has a range of personnel, including pilots, maintenance personnel, and support staff, who work together to ensure the smooth operation of the base.
In terms of its economic impact, Cannon Air Force Base is a significant contributor to the local economy. The base employs thousands of personnel, both military and civilian, and generates millions of dollars in revenue each year. The base also has a range of contracts with local businesses, providing a boost to the local economy. The base is also a major source of employment for the local community, with many residents employed at the base or in businesses that support the base.
History of Cannon Air Force Base

The base has been home to a range of units, including the 27th Fighter Wing, the 27th Special Operations Wing, and the 512th Special Operations Squadron. The base has also been used for a range of missions, including training, transport, and reconnaissance. The base has a range of facilities, including a runway, hangars, and maintenance facilities, and is equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
Early Years
The early years of Cannon Air Force Base were marked by rapid expansion and growth. The base was initially used for the training of bomber crews, but soon expanded to include the training of fighter pilots. The base was also used for the development of new aircraft and tactics, with several notable aviators and military strategists serving at the base.The base played a significant role in World War II, with several units based at the base participating in combat operations. The base was also used for the training of personnel from other countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada. After the war, the base continued to grow and expand, with new units and facilities being added.
Missions and Operations

The base is also home to several other units, including the 512th Special Operations Squadron and the 27th Special Operations Support Squadron. These units provide a range of support services, including maintenance, logistics, and communications. The base is also equipped with a range of facilities, including a runway, hangars, and maintenance facilities.
Special Operations
The 27th Special Operations Wing is a key component of the Air Force Special Operations Command, and is responsible for conducting a wide range of special operations. The wing is equipped with a range of aircraft, including the MC-130J Commando II, the AC-130J Ghostrider, and the MQ-9 Reaper. These aircraft are used for a variety of missions, including special operations, transport, and reconnaissance.The wing is also responsible for providing training and support to other units, including the 512th Special Operations Squadron and the 27th Special Operations Support Squadron. The wing is equipped with a range of facilities, including a runway, hangars, and maintenance facilities, and is staffed by a range of personnel, including pilots, maintenance personnel, and support staff.
Facilities and Infrastructure

The base is also equipped with a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, swimming pool, and gymnasium. The base has a range of amenities, including a commissary, exchange, and medical facilities, which provide support to the personnel stationed at the base.
Runway and Hangars
The base is equipped with a single runway, which is 13,000 feet long and 200 feet wide. The runway is equipped with a range of navigational aids, including instrument landing systems and precision approach path indicators. The base is also home to several hangars, which are used for the maintenance and repair of aircraft.The hangars are equipped with a range of equipment, including cranes, hoists, and tooling. The base also has a range of support facilities, including fuel storage, ammunition storage, and logistics facilities. The base has a range of personnel, including maintenance personnel and support staff, who work together to ensure the smooth operation of the base.
Economic Impact

The base is a major source of employment for the local community, with many residents employed at the base or in businesses that support the base. The base also has a range of amenities, including a commissary, exchange, and medical facilities, which provide support to the personnel stationed at the base.
Employment and Revenue
The base is a significant employer in the local community, with thousands of personnel employed at the base. The base generates millions of dollars in revenue each year, with a significant portion of this revenue being spent in the local community. The base also has a range of contracts with local businesses, providing a boost to the local economy.The base is a major source of employment for the local community, with many residents employed at the base or in businesses that support the base. The base also has a range of amenities, including a commissary, exchange, and medical facilities, which provide support to the personnel stationed at the base.
Gallery of Cannon Air Force Base
Cannon Air Force Base Image Gallery










Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary mission of Cannon Air Force Base?
+The primary mission of Cannon Air Force Base is to conduct special operations, including counterterrorism, direct action, and unconventional warfare.
What units are based at Cannon Air Force Base?
+Cannon Air Force Base is home to the 27th Special Operations Wing, the 512th Special Operations Squadron, and the 27th Special Operations Support Squadron.
What type of aircraft are based at Cannon Air Force Base?
+Cannon Air Force Base is home to a range of aircraft, including the MC-130J Commando II, the AC-130J Ghostrider, and the MQ-9 Reaper.
What is the economic impact of Cannon Air Force Base on the local community?
+Cannon Air Force Base has a significant economic impact on the local community, employing thousands of personnel and generating millions of dollars in revenue each year.
What recreational facilities are available at Cannon Air Force Base?
+Cannon Air Force Base has a range of recreational facilities, including a golf course, swimming pool, and gymnasium.
In conclusion, Cannon Air Force Base is a significant military installation that plays a crucial role in the defense of the United States. The base has a rich history, dating back to 1942, and has undergone several transformations over the years. The base is home to the 27th Special Operations Wing and is equipped with a range of aircraft, including the MC-130J Commando II, the AC-130J Ghostrider, and the MQ-9 Reaper. The base has a significant economic impact on the local community, employing thousands of personnel and generating millions of dollars in revenue each year. We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of Cannon Air Force Base and its operations. If you have any further questions or would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to hear from you and provide any additional information you may need.