Nellis Air Force Base, Military Base

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Damian Dorsey, aircraft armament systems technician, from the 113th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron out of Washington D.C., conducts pre-flight procedures for an F-16 Fighting Falcon during Red Flag 23-3, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, July 19, 2023. Red Flag is one of the U.S. Air Force's largest combat training exercises and aims to enhance the combat readiness, capability, and survivability of all participating units. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Jakob Ivanick)

Construction of the "Las Vegas Army Air Field" began in March 1941, and the first commander, Colonel Martinus Stenseth, arrived in May.The base was renamed Nellis Air Force Base on April 30, 1950.

Shortly thereafter the base was again needed to prepare pilots for the Korean War, first with F-51 Mustang training, and then with F-80s and F-86 Sabres. The base also became a part of testing programs for new aircraft.

From their testing and tactics development programs to their training schools and venues they provide a means to equip the force with proven technology and the the most current tactics.

Nellis Air Force Base Information

Condition: Operational
Years in Use: 1941 – present
Controlled by: Air Combat Command
Current Commander: Colonel Joshua DeMotts
Garrison: 99th Air Base Wing
Base Occupants: United States Air Force Warfare Center, 53rd Test and Evaluation Group, 57th Wing, 505th Command and Control Wing, 563rd Rescue Group, 926th Wing
Open to the Public: No