Kadena Air Base
Kadena Air Base PCS Guide
Military Base History
A U.S. Air Force E-3 Sentry assigned to the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron departs after receiving fuel from a 909th Air Refueling Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker over the Pacific Ocean, Nov. 3, 2021. The radar atop the E-3 Sentry has a 360 degree view of the horizon, a reach of more than 200...
Kadena Air Base started as a small airfield built by the Imperial Japanese Army in 1945. After the Battle of Okinawa, U.S. forces seized the airfield and expanded it to support operations in the Pacific.
The base’s original mission was to provide air support and logistics for Allied operations during the final months of World War II. This early role established Kadena’s importance in the region.
Post-war expansion transformed Kadena into a major U.S. Air Force installation. During the Korean War, the base served as a staging and support area for combat missions.
The Cold War era brought further growth, with new runways and support facilities built to accommodate advanced aircraft and larger units. Kadena hosted several key units, including the 18th Wing, which remains the largest combat wing in the U.S. Air Force.
Kadena Air Base has been central to U.S. military strategy in the Asia-Pacific region. During the Vietnam War, it served as a launching point for bombing missions and airlift operations.
The base has also supported humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and regional security operations. These efforts highlight Kadena’s versatility and ongoing relevance.
Today, Kadena Air Base remains a vital hub for U.S. air power in the Pacific. It supports joint operations with Japanese and allied forces, hosts a variety of aircraft, and plays a key role in maintaining regional stability.
The base has retained its original name since its establishment, with no significant official name changes recorded.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force explosive ordnance disposal technicians from the 18th Civil Engineer Squadron pick up simulated bomblets during a Rapid Explosive Hazard Mitigation training exercise on Kadena Air Base, Japan, May 7, 2025. EOD professionals assessed airfield damages demonstrating their ability to...
Major Units
18th Wing
The 18th Wing is the largest combat wing in the U.S. Air Force, responsible for air superiority, aerial refueling, airborne warning and control, and combat search and rescue operations in the Indo-Pacific region.
353rd Special Operations Wing
The 353rd SOW provides specialized airpower for special operations forces, including infiltration, exfiltration, and resupply missions in support of U.S. and allied operations.
733rd Air Mobility Squadron
The 733rd AMS provides air mobility support, including cargo and passenger handling, to ensure rapid global mobility for U.S. and allied forces.
390th Intelligence Squadron
The 390th IS conducts intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations, providing critical information to support theater and national objectives.
Training Schools
Pacific Air Forces Regional Training Center (PRTC)
Overview
The PRTC provides regional contingency and readiness training for aircrew and support personnel, focusing on operations in the Indo-Pacific theater.
Course Length
1-2 weeks (varies by course)
Who Attends
Aircrew and support personnel assigned to Pacific Air Forces units
Arrival & In-Processing
Runners exit through gate 5 during the Okinawa Marathon at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Feb. 16, 2025. During this year's race, approximately 9,000 participants ran the 1.7-mile portion of the marathon that spans from Kadena’s gate 2 to gate 5. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Senior Airman Luis E. Rios...
Welcome to Kadena Air Base! Arriving prepared ensures a smooth transition for you and your family. Understanding access procedures and required documents will help you check in quickly and start your new assignment with confidence. For more details, visit the official Kadena Air Base website.
Kadena Air Base's main entry point is the Gate 1 (Kadena Rotary Gate), which operates 24/7 for authorized personnel. Other gates, such as Gate 2 and Gate 3, have limited hours—check posted times before arrival. You must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or dependent ID at all times. State driver's licenses must comply with REAL ID Act standards for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections at all gates to maintain security. Family members and visitors must be sponsored and obtain a pass at the Visitor Control Center before entry. Always follow gate guard instructions and allow extra time for security checks.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Dependent/Family Member ID Cards
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Passports (for all family members)
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Marriage Certificate
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Birth Certificates
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
Kadena Air Base offers a robust sponsor program for incoming personnel. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) as soon as you receive orders. Sponsors help with arrival logistics, temporary lodging, and local orientation.
Report to the Military Personnel Flight (MPF) at the Welcome Center, Building 721, located near Gate 1. In-processing hours are Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Key steps include personnel check-in, finance, housing, medical/dental, and unit-specific briefings. The process usually takes 2–3 business days, depending on your status and documentation.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is just outside Gate 1 (Kadena Rotary Gate). Operating hours are Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. All visitors must be accompanied by a sponsor and present valid identification.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Jerry Leama, Barry Van Lines mover, carries a box of household goods onto a moving truck on Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, July 16, 2021. Dover AFB and the Air Force Aid Society provide 20 hours of free permanent change of station care for each child upon arrival to and departure from their duty stations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Nicole Leidholm)
Arriving at Kadena Air Base involves several key steps. First, review your official orders and connect with the base Transportation Office to discuss your move options. You can choose a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM), also called a DITY move. Each method has different requirements and reimbursement processes. Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) to schedule and track your shipment. DPS is the DoD’s official platform for managing PCS moves and is required for most shipments. Make sure to create your account and complete all necessary documentation as soon as you get your orders. Service members are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) for up to 10 days at Kadena if you arrive from a CONUS location. This helps cover hotel costs while you look for housing. You may also qualify for a Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to offset PCS costs. Check current rates and eligibility before you move. Kadena’s busy inbound season is summer, so plan ahead for possible delays. Contact the base sponsor program for local insights and support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor early to help with local information and support.
- Keep all PCS orders, passports, and medical records in your carry-on luggage.
- Label boxes with your name and destination address for easy delivery.
- Take photos of valuable items before pack-out for insurance claims.
- Check pet import requirements for Okinawa well in advance of your move.
- Schedule your move in DPS as soon as you receive orders to secure dates.
- Ask the Transportation Office about local storage options if housing is delayed.
Important Forms & Links
Access the Defense Personal Property System to manage your move.
Check current rates for TLE, DLA, and other entitlements.
Guides, checklists, and support for PCS moves.
Official base arrival and newcomer information.
Schools & Childcare
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On-Base Schools
Kadena Elementary School
Kadena Middle School
Kadena High School
Childcare Options
Kadena Child Development Center (CDC)
Kadena School Age Care (SAC) Program
Kadena Youth Center
Local Schools
Okinawa Prefectural Board of Education
Okinawa International School
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
Kadena AB, Japan Commercial DSN Email Webpage 011-81-611-734-6487/2159 (315) 634-6487/2159 733ams.space-available@us.af.mil Kadena AB Passenger Terminal Passenger Terminal.
Please verify the exact building number, operating hours, and directions upon arrival or by contacting the terminal directly using the information provided.
Terminal Amenities
Waiting Area
Comfortable seating and air conditioning.
Family Room
Designated space for families with young children.
Snack Bar/Vending Machines
Light snacks and beverages available for purchase.
Wi-Fi Access
Free wireless internet for passengers.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from Kadena AB, Japan Commercial DSN Email Webpage 011-81-611-734-6487/2159 (315) 634-6487/2159 733ams.space-available@us.af.mil Kadena AB Passenger Terminal, 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.
Official AMC information may be available here: Kadena AB Passenger Terminal
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Yokota Air Base, Japan
Popular for travel within Japan; flights can fill up quickly during holidays.
Andersen Air Force Base, Guam
Bring summer clothing; high demand during PCS season.
Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii
Seats often in demand; plan for potential long layovers.
Travis Air Force Base, California
Long-haul route; pack snacks and entertainment for extended travel time.