Military Bases in Kuwait
Your unofficial field manual for Kuwait.
Air Force Bases
Al Jaber Air Base
Located in Al Jaber Airbase, Kuwait
Al Jaber Air Base is located near Al Jaber Airbase, Kuwait, and is a key installation for the Kuwait Air Force and coalition partners. This base is known for its strategic role in regional air operations, supporting combat and logistics missions.
Ali Al Salem Air Base
Located in Kuwait, Kuwait
Ali Al Salem Air Base sits just outside Kuwait City, Kuwait, and is a critical hub for the U.S. Air Force and coalition partners. Known for its role in air operations and logistics, the base supports rapid deployment and air mobility missions throughout the Middle East.
Army Bases
Camp Arifjan
Located in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait
Camp Arifjan is a key U.S. Army installation located in Camp Arifjan, Kuwait. This base serves as a major logistics and support hub for U.S. and coalition forces in the Middle East, offering both on-base and off-base housing options.
Camp Buehring
Located in Unknown, Kuwait
Camp Buehring in Unknown, Kuwait is a key U.S. Army installation supporting operations across the Middle East. This remote base is known for its role as a staging and training area for troops deploying to Iraq and the region.
Kuwait’s Desert Defense
For U.S. military members and families on PCS or TDY to Kuwait, Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base, Ali Al Salem Air Base, Camp Arifjan, and Camp Buehring are cornerstone installations, supporting U.S. Air Force operations, Army logistics, and coalition missions. Strategically positioned in the Persian Gulf, these bases strengthen the U.S.-Kuwait defense partnership. This guide to military bases in Kuwait offers insights into their roles, historical significance, economic impact, and community support, ensuring a rewarding assignment in this vital ally nation.
Historical Foundations
Kuwait’s role as a U.S. military hub grew during the Gulf War (1990–1991). Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base, established in 1976 by the Kuwait Air Force, became a U.S. staging ground for Operation Desert Storm, despite Iraqi occupation in 1990. Ali Al Salem Air Base, operational since the 1950s, was the last Kuwaiti base overrun during Iraq’s invasion, reclaimed in 1991. Camp Arifjan, constructed in 1999 by Kuwait’s government post-Khobar Towers bombing, replaced Camp Doha as a secure logistics hub. Camp Buehring, formerly Camp Udairi, was established in 2002 to support Iraq operations. These bases reflect Kuwait’s enduring U.S. partnership.
Economic Impact
Kuwait’s U.S. bases contribute over $3 billion annually, employing 15,000 personnel. Camp Arifjan, south of Kuwait City, generates $1.5 billion and 9,000 jobs, supporting Al Ahmadi Governorate. Camp Buehring, in the northern desert, adds $800 million and 4,000 jobs near Udairi. Ali Al Salem and Ahmed Al Jaber Air Bases contribute $700 million and 2,000 jobs, boosting local construction and services. Kuwait’s $265 million investment since 2017 in base upgrades, including a 2024 officers’ quarters at Arifjan, enhances infrastructure. Families access 2,000 housing units, local schools, and TRICARE clinics, with MWR programs like 2025 Kuwait City souk tours.
Key Military Facilities
Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base (Al Ahmadi): Hosts the U.S. 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing with F-15Es and MQ-9 Reapers, supporting 1,400 personnel for Operation Inherent Resolve.
Ali Al Salem Air Base (Al Jahra): Home to the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing, managing 400 monthly airlift missions, with 2,500 personnel.
Camp Arifjan (Al Ahmadi): A logistics hub under Area Support Group-Kuwait, supporting 9,000 personnel with vehicle and helicopter maintenance.
Camp Buehring (Udairi): A training base accommodating 14,000 soldiers, with firing ranges and obstacle courses, hosting 4,000 personnel.
Camp Patriot (Kuwait Naval Base): A joint U.S.-Kuwait facility for rapid naval deployment, with 500 personnel.
Strategic Importance
Kuwait’s bases are pivotal for U.S. Central Command operations. Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base’s 332nd Air Expeditionary Wing conducts 1,500 annual missions, including ISR and strike operations against ISIS. Ali Al Salem Air Base, dubbed “The Rock,” serves as the theater’s primary airlift hub, supporting 400 monthly C-130 and C-17 missions for Operations Inherent Resolve and Freedom’s Sentinel. Camp Arifjan manages 1.4 million annual equipment shipments, with a 2024 Unaccompanied Officers Quarters enhancing quality of life. Camp Buehring trains 10,000 troops yearly, preparing forces for Iraq and Syria. These bases ensure regional stability despite unconfirmed 2024 security incidents.
Notable Distinctions
Camp Arifjan, known as “Camp Cupcake,” offers extensive amenities like Burger King and a 24-hour AAFES exchange across 7 zones. Ali Al Salem Air Base is the busiest aerial port in the theater, with advanced air defense systems. Ahmed Al Jaber Air Base hosts Kuwait’s entire F/A-18 fleet alongside U.S. forces. Camp Buehring is a premier training facility 25 miles from Iraq. The bases provide 2,000 housing units, local schooling, and MWR events like 2025 desert camel treks, fostering communities in Kuwait’s arid landscapes.
U.S. service members on PCS to Kuwait or TDY in Kuwait will find mission-critical roles and supportive communities at Ahmed Al Jaber, Ali Al Salem, Camp Arifjan, and Camp Buehring. From Kuwait City’s vibrant markets to Al Ahmadi’s desert vistas, Kuwait’s bases offer robust support, local education options, and unique cultural experiences for military families.