New England, comprising six states in the northeastern corner of the United States, has a rich military history dating back to the colonial era. The region is home to numerous military bases, each playing a significant role in the country’s defense and security. These bases not only contribute to the national defense but also have a substantial impact on the local economies and communities.
One of the most notable military bases in New England is the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, located on the border of Maine and New Hampshire. Established in 1800, it is one of the oldest continuously operating shipyards in the United States. The shipyard is primarily responsible for the overhaul, repair, and maintenance of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered submarines. Its strategic location allows for easy access to the Atlantic Ocean, making it a critical component of the U.S. naval defense strategy.
Another significant military installation in New England is Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts. Named after Laurence G. Hanscom, a test pilot who died in a plane crash in 1941, the base has been operational since 1941. It serves as the headquarters of the Electronic Systems Center (ESC), which is responsible for the development, acquisition, and maintenance of command and control systems for the U.S. Air Force. Hanscom Air Force Base is also home to the MIT Lincoln Laboratory, a federally funded research and development center that focuses on advanced technologies for national security.
In Vermont, the Ethan Allen Firing Range, also known as the Ethan Allen Training Site, provides military personnel with a facility for training and testing weaponry. Although smaller compared to other bases in the region, it plays a crucial role in supporting the military’s readiness and effectiveness. The firing range is primarily used by the Vermont National Guard but is also available for use by other military units.
The Naval Submarine Base New London, located in Groton, Connecticut, is another key military installation in New England. Established in 1868, it is the U.S. Navy’s primary submarine base on the East Coast. The base supports the operation and maintenance of the Navy’s submarine fleet, including the training of submariners at the Naval Submarine School. The base’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and its access to deepwater ports make it an ideal location for submarine operations.
Maine is also home to the Bangor International Airport, which, while not exclusively a military base, has a significant military presence. The airport serves as a joint military-civilian facility, with the 101st Air Refueling Wing of the Maine Air National Guard being based there. The wing operates the KC-135 Stratotanker, providing air refueling support to both military and allied aircraft.
In Massachusetts, the DEVCOM Soldier Center, part of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, is located in Natick. The center is focused on the development of technologies and systems that enhance the survivability and effectiveness of the soldier. It is renowned for its work in areas such as protective clothing, food technology, and weapon systems, significantly contributing to the advancement of soldier safety and combat readiness.
New Hampshire hosts the Pease Air National Guard Base, home to the 157th Air Refueling Wing. The wing operates the KC-46 Pegasus, providing air refueling and airlift support to U.S. and allied forces worldwide. The base’s strategic location near the coast allows for efficient deployment and support of air operations over the Atlantic.
The region’s military presence extends beyond these notable bases, with numerous smaller installations, reserve centers, and National Guard units spread throughout New England. Each of these units contributes to the region’s rich military heritage and plays a vital role in the country’s defense strategy.
Key Military Bases in New England
- Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (Maine/New Hampshire): Focuses on the repair and maintenance of U.S. Navy submarines.
- Hanscom Air Force Base (Massachusetts): Headquarters for the development and acquisition of electronic systems for the U.S. Air Force.
- Ethan Allen Firing Range (Vermont): Provides training facilities for military personnel.
- Naval Submarine Base New London (Connecticut): Primary submarine base on the East Coast, supporting the operation and training of submariners.
- Bangor International Airport (Maine): Joint military-civilian facility, home to the 101st Air Refueling Wing.
- DEVCOM Soldier Center (Massachusetts): Develops technologies and systems to enhance soldier survivability and effectiveness.
- Pease Air National Guard Base (New Hampshire): Home to the 157th Air Refueling Wing, providing air refueling support.
FAQs
What is the primary function of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard?
+The primary function of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard is the overhaul, repair, and maintenance of the U.S. Navy's nuclear-powered submarines.
Which military base in New England is known for its role in the development of electronic systems for the U.S. Air Force?
+Hanscom Air Force Base in Massachusetts is known for its role in the development and acquisition of electronic systems for the U.S. Air Force.
What is the significance of the Naval Submarine Base New London in Connecticut?
+The Naval Submarine Base New London is the U.S. Navy's primary submarine base on the East Coast, supporting the operation, maintenance, and training of submariners.
How does the DEVCOM Soldier Center in Massachusetts contribute to national defense?
+The DEVCOM Soldier Center contributes to national defense by developing technologies and systems that enhance the survivability and effectiveness of the soldier, including protective clothing, food technology, and weapon systems.
What role does the Pease Air National Guard Base in New Hampshire play in air operations?
+The Pease Air National Guard Base plays a critical role in air operations by providing air refueling and airlift support to U.S. and allied forces worldwide through the 157th Air Refueling Wing.
How do military bases in New England support the local economy and communities?
+Military bases in New England significantly contribute to the local economy through employment, procurement, and infrastructure development. They also engage with communities through various outreach programs, supporting education, health, and social initiatives.
Conclusion
New England’s military bases are integral to the region’s identity and the country’s defense strategy. From the historic Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to the technologically advanced Hanscom Air Force Base, each installation plays a unique and vital role. The economic and social impacts of these bases on their surrounding communities are substantial, fostering a sense of patriotism and pride among locals. As the world’s security landscape continues to evolve, the importance of these military bases in New England will only continue to grow, ensuring the region remains a critical component of the United States’ national defense infrastructure.
