Military Bases in Illinois

Illinois Military Installations

For U.S. military members and families on PCS or TDY to Illinois, Scott Air Force Base in St. Clair County, Rock Island Arsenal in Rock Island, and Naval Station Great Lakes in Lake County are premier installations, driving air mobility, advanced manufacturing, and naval recruit training. These bases anchor Illinois’ strategic military presence in the Midwest. This guide to military bases in Illinois offers insights into their roles, historical significance, economic impact, and community support, ensuring a rewarding assignment in the Prairie State.

Historical Foundations

Illinois’ military history began in the early 20th century. Scott Air Force Base, established in 1917 as Scott Field, trained aviators during WWI, named for Corporal Frank S. Scott, the first enlisted airman killed in a crash. Rock Island Arsenal, founded in 1862 during the Civil War, became a key manufacturing hub, designated an arsenal in 1872. Naval Station Great Lakes, opened in 1911, trained sailors for WWI and WWII, growing into the Navy’s sole recruit training center by 1994. These bases have shaped Illinois’ defense legacy through innovation and training.

Economic Impact

Illinois’ bases contribute over $6 billion annually, employing 40,000 personnel. Scott Air Force Base, spanning 3,600 acres, generates $3.5 billion and 13,000 jobs in St. Clair County, supporting Belleville and O’Fallon. Naval Station Great Lakes, covering 1,600 acres, adds $2 billion and 17,000 jobs in Lake County, boosting North Chicago. Rock Island Arsenal contributes $1 billion and 6,000 jobs in Rock Island, sustaining the Quad Cities. Families access 2,500 housing units, DoDEA school partnerships (e.g., Mascoutah School District), and TRICARE clinics, with MWR programs like 2025 Chicago Navy Week events.

Key Military Facilities

• Scott Air Force Base (Belleville): Hosts the 375th Air Mobility Wing, operating C-21s, C-40s, and KC-135s for 3,000 airlift missions, with 13,000 personnel.

• Rock Island Arsenal (Rock Island): Home to First Army and Joint Munitions Command, manufacturing artillery and small arms, with 6,000 personnel.

• Naval Station Great Lakes (North Chicago): Hosts Recruit Training Command, training 40,000 sailors annually, with 17,000 personnel.

• Springfield Air National Guard Base (Springfield): Home to the 183rd Wing with C-130Hs, conducting 1,000 airlift missions, with 1,000 personnel.

Strategic Importance

Illinois’ bases are vital to U.S. defense. Scott Air Force Base’s 375th Air Mobility Wing conducts 3,000 airlift and refueling missions yearly, with 2024 marking the C-21 fleet’s retirement to modernize operations. Naval Station Great Lakes’ Recruit Training Command trains 40,000 sailors annually, with 2024 enhancements to technical curricula. Rock Island Arsenal produces 50% of Army artillery systems, including M777 howitzers, with 2024 contracts advancing 3D printing. Springfield Air National Guard Base’s 183rd Wing supports 1,000 C-130H missions, aiding disaster relief. These bases ensure readiness despite unconfirmed 2024 drone reports.

Notable Distinctions

Scott Air Force Base is the headquarters for Air Mobility Command, managing global airlift. Rock Island Arsenal, the Army’s only active foundry, spans 946 acres on an island in the Mississippi River. Naval Station Great Lakes is the Navy’s sole boot camp, training every enlisted sailor. The bases offer 2,500 housing units, school partnerships, and MWR events like Belleville’s 2025 Oktoberfest and Chicago’s cultural festivals, fostering vibrant communities in Illinois’ heartland.

U.S. service members on PCS to Illinois or TDY in Illinois will find mission-critical roles and welcoming communities at Scott Air Force Base, Rock Island Arsenal, and Naval Station Great Lakes. From Belleville’s historic charm to Chicago’s urban vibrancy, Illinois’ bases provide robust support, quality education, and rich cultural experiences for military families.