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Oklahoma’s military landscape is rich with strategic installations that play a crucial role in national defense. Fort Sill, located in Lawton, stands as the most prominent Army base in the state, serving as a critical hub for military training and technological innovation. Spanning nearly 94,000 acres, this expansive military installation is home to the Army’s Fires Center of Excellence and represents a cornerstone of America’s military preparedness.
Military Significance of Oklahoma Army Bases
The military installations in Oklahoma are far more than just training grounds. They are vital economic and strategic assets that contribute significantly to both national security and the state’s economic ecosystem. Fort Sill, in particular, has emerged as a pivotal center for artillery and missile defense development, showcasing Oklahoma’s importance in military infrastructure.
Fort Sill: A Comprehensive Military Hub
Fort Sill hosts several critical military units and educational facilities:
- 31st Air Defense Artillery Brigade
- 75th Fires Brigade
- 214th Fires Brigade
- Henry Post Army Airfield
- US Army Air Defense Artillery School
- US Army Field Artillery School
The base supports a robust population of approximately 53,000 people, including 20,000 military and civilian personnel and 33,000 military family members. Its mission extends beyond traditional training, with a focus on developing next-generation weapons systems for Long Range Precision Fires and Air + Missile Defense.
Additional Military Installations
While Fort Sill dominates the Army presence, Oklahoma hosts other significant military facilities:
McAlester Army Ammunition Plant
Located in McAlester, this facility is the Department of Defense’s premier bomb and missile warhead loading facility. Key highlights include:
- Capable of producing bombs from 250 pounds to the Massive Ordnance Air Burst (MOAB) weighing 21,700 pounds
- Supplies one-third of munitions for the Defense Department
- Employs 1,865 civilian personnel
Oklahoma Army National Guard
The Oklahoma Army National Guard plays a crucial role in both state and national defense:
- Deployed over 30,000 Soldiers and Airmen since 9⁄11
- Supported missions in 16 countries
- Key units include:
- 45th Field Artillery Brigade
- 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team
- 90th Troop Command
Historical Context
Oklahoma’s military installations have a rich history dating back to the territorial period. While many early forts like Fort Arbuckle and Fort Washita are no longer operational, they laid the groundwork for the state’s current military infrastructure.
Economic Impact
Military bases in Oklahoma are not just defensive assets but significant economic engines. Fort Sill alone contributes substantially to the local economy, supporting thousands of jobs and driving regional development.
What is the largest Army base in Oklahoma?
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Fort Sill is the largest Army base in Oklahoma, covering nearly 94,000 acres and serving as the Army’s Fires Center of Excellence.
How many people are associated with Fort Sill?
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Approximately 53,000 people are associated with Fort Sill, including 20,000 military and civilian personnel and 33,000 military family members.
What is the primary mission of Fort Sill?
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Fort Sill’s primary mission is to serve as the Fires Center of Excellence, developing doctrine, training soldiers, and modernizing weapons for Long Range Precision Fires and Air + Missile Defense.