Hanscom AFB
Hanscom AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
Col. Jorge Jimenez, Hanscom Air Force Base installation commander, speaks to Bedford Minuteman Company 1st Lt. Jim Ringwood, during a welcome reception at the historic Fitch Tavern prior to the annual Liberty Pole Capping event in Bedford, Mass., April 12. The Liberty Pole Capping is a...
Hanscom Air Force Base began as a small airfield in 1941, built to support the Army Air Forces during World War II. Its original mission centered on training and testing, and the site quickly expanded to meet wartime needs. The airfield was named Bedford Army Air Field, reflecting its location near Bedford, Massachusetts.
During the Cold War, the base shifted focus to research and development, becoming a hub for electronic systems and air defense innovation. In 1947, the installation was officially renamed Hanscom Field in honor of Laurence G. Hanscom, a local aviator. The Air Force designated it Hanscom Air Force Base in 1974, establishing its role as a key center for command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems.
Over the decades, Hanscom AFB has hosted several important units, including the Electronic Systems Division and later the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. The base played a pivotal role in developing radar and air defense systems, strengthening national security during the Cold War and beyond.
Today, Hanscom AFB serves as the Air Force's primary center for acquiring and sustaining advanced electronic systems. Its mission supports both national defense and the local economy, employing thousands of military and civilian personnel. The base continues to focus on innovation, adapting to new challenges in cyber and information warfare.
Namesake
Hanscom was instrumental in the development of local airfields and was known for his advocacy of civil aviation. He died in a plane crash in 1941, and the airfield was named in his honor to recognize his contributions to aviation in the region.
Major Units & Training Programs
CCol. Matthew Poisson, left, individual mobilization augmentee to the 66th Air base Group commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Charles Desaulniers, acting 66 ABG command chief, present a certificate to Senior Airman Zamaslie Reyes, 66th Security Forces Squadron Base Defense Operations Center...
Major Units
Hanscom Air Force Base, 66th Air Base Group
Provides installation support for all personnel, infrastructure, and daily operations at Hanscom AFB, enabling the missions of tenant units and partner organizations.
Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC), Hanscom Division
Responsible for acquiring, sustaining, and modernizing Air Force command, control, communications, intelligence, and network systems, supporting global air operations.
Battle Management Directorate
Oversees the development and sustainment of advanced battle management systems, including airborne warning and control and air defense command and control programs.
Training Schools
Cybersecurity and Acquisition Training Programs
Overview
Offers specialized courses in cybersecurity, program management, and acquisition processes for Air Force personnel supporting command and control systems.
Course Length
1-2 weeks per course
Who Attends
Air Force civilian and military personnel in acquisition, IT, or cyber roles
Arrival & In-Processing
Airman 1st Class Jose Luis, 66th Security Forces Squadron entry controller, checks identifications for personnel entering the installation through the Ruiz Gate at Hanscom Air Force Base, Mass., Feb. 17. The Ruiz Gate (formerly Hartwell Gate) will be open seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m....
Welcome to Hanscom AFB! Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition and helps you start your assignment on the right foot. Take time to review the steps below and gather all required documents before your arrival. For more details, visit the official Hanscom AFB website.
Hanscom AFB's main entrance is the Vandenberg Gate, which serves as the primary access point for all incoming personnel and visitors. The Vandenberg Gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized individuals. All personnel must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued ID at entry. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks for all vehicle occupants and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering. Sponsors are required for unescorted guests and must be present during the pass issuance process.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if applicable)
Hanscom AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight to request a sponsor before your move. Your sponsor can assist with local information, in-processing, and initial transportation needs.
Formal in-processing takes place at the Welcome Center, located in Building 1218 near the main base area. Operating hours are typically Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include check-in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your unit. Plan for the process to take two to three business days, depending on your specific requirements and arrival time.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Vandenberg Gate. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and Saturday, 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorships for short-term access.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Clifford Roberts, 325th Contracting Squadron contracting officer, and his family, pose for a photo at Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida, July 21, 2022. Roberts and his family recently moved into base housing after a permanent change of station to Tyndall. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Anabel Del Valle)
Hanscom AFB welcomes incoming service members and families with a streamlined PCS process. Once you receive orders, your first step is to contact the base Transportation Office to coordinate your move. You’ll choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move and may be reimbursed. Both options require you to use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment.
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) helps cover lodging costs while you secure permanent housing. Most service members are eligible for up to 10 days of TLE at Hanscom AFB. You may also qualify for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset moving expenses. Check current rates and eligibility before you move. Hanscom’s proximity to Boston means housing can be competitive, so start your search early and reach out to your sponsor for local insights.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to get local advice and support.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Start house-hunting as soon as possible—Boston-area housing is competitive.
- Take photos of valuables and electronics before packing.
- Label boxes clearly with room and contents for easier unpacking.
- Contact the Hanscom AFB TMO early to secure your preferred move dates.
- Plan for pet boarding or lodging restrictions—many hotels near base have pet policies.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Official DoD allowances and rates for PCS moves.
Guidance, checklists, and support for your PCS journey.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance entitlement.
Official base information for new arrivals.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Hanscom AFB, MA Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Hanscom AFB, MA, please refer to the official Air Mobility Command (AMC) website or contact the passenger terminal directly.
Information can typically be found regarding travel categories (DoD Categories I-VI), necessary documentation (e.g., CAC, leave forms, dependent IDs), and any specific local policies.
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.