Izmir Air Station
Izmir Air Station PCS Guide
Military Base History
Staff Sgt. Dejuan Watts, 425th Air Base Squadron client systems supervisor, poses for a “Titan Tuesday” photo in the Izmir Consolidated Center in Izmir, Turkey, Oct. 13, 2022. Watts provides the U.S. Air Force and Army personal at the ICC with direct computer support. The 425th ABS provides...
Izmir Air Station began as a strategic U.S. Air Force presence in Turkey during the early Cold War. The base, located in the city of Izmir, supported NATO operations and strengthened Western defenses against Soviet expansion. Its command, control, and communications capabilities were vital to regional security.
During the 1950s and 1960s, the station expanded its infrastructure to meet growing operational needs. It hosted the 39th Air Base Group and supported rotational deployments of U.S. and NATO personnel. The site became a hub for intelligence gathering and logistical support, which enhanced its importance within the alliance.
Throughout the Cold War, Izmir Air Station played a crucial role in monitoring Soviet activities and enabling rapid response operations. Its location allowed for quick coordination with Turkish and allied forces, making it a linchpin in NATO’s southern flank. The base also supported humanitarian and crisis response missions in the region.
Today, Izmir Air Station serves as a command and administrative center for U.S. and NATO operations in Turkey. The installation continues to foster U.S.-Turkish military cooperation and supports regional stability. It has retained its original name and mission focus since its establishment, with no significant official name changes reported.
Major Units & Training Programs
A patch mounted to a helmet bag from the Royal Canadian air force’s 425th Tactical Fighter Squadron, shows it holds the joint helmet-mounted cueing system (JHMCS) for a CF-18 Hornet pilot at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, May 7, 2015, during RED FLAG-Alaska (RF-A) 15-2. The JHMCS combines a...
Major Units
425th Air Base Squadron
Provides mission support for U.S. and NATO forces in the Izmir region, including administrative, logistics, and security services. Acts as the primary U.S. Air Force presence at Izmir Air Station.
NATO Allied Land Command (LANDCOM) Support Element
Supports NATO LANDCOM headquarters operations, facilitating coordination and communication between U.S. forces and NATO allies. Focuses on land operations and multinational interoperability.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Maj. James Hodgson, Air Force Reserve Center Headquarters (left), checks several packing crates off of his shipping invoice from the moving company for his permanent change of station relocation to Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Arriving at Izmir Air Station begins with receiving your official orders. Next, contact the base Transportation Office to start your move planning. You will choose between a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also known as a DITY move. Both options have different requirements and reimbursement rates, so review your entitlements carefully. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule and track your shipment. This system is required for all official moves and keeps your paperwork in one place. Service members are eligible for Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help cover costs during your transition. TLE helps pay for temporary housing while you wait for permanent quarters, and DLA helps offset miscellaneous moving expenses. Izmir Air Station has unique in-processing procedures and support services. Contact your sponsor and the base newcomer’s office for local guidance. Check the base website for arrival checklists and local housing info. Early communication with the base ensures a smooth PCS.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early for local insight and support.
- Keep orders, IDs, and key documents with you at all times.
- Inventory and photograph your household goods before pack-out.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess costs.
- Label boxes clearly with your name and destination address.
- Plan pet travel well in advance; check local restrictions.
- Contact the Housing Office before arrival to explore options.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to set up and track your move.
Find current rates for TLE, DLA, and other allowances.
Get relocation tools, checklists, and expert support.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance for planning purposes.
Read arrival instructions and local resources for Izmir Air Station.