NSA Bahrain
NSA Bahrain PCS and Base Guide
Military Base History
250501-N-IR096-1152 Misha Ross, advanced program coordinator, University of Maryland Global Campus, delivers remarks during the commencement at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, May 1, 2025. NSA Bahrain enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of...
NSA Bahrain began as a small U.S. Navy administrative support facility in the 1950s. The base was established to provide logistics and communications for U.S. naval forces in the Persian Gulf.
Its original mission focused on supporting regional maritime security and facilitating a sustained U.S. naval presence in the area. Regional security was the driving force behind its early operations.
Expansion accelerated in the 1970s as the U.S. increased its commitment to Gulf security following the British withdrawal from "east of Suez." The base grew to support the Middle East Force and later became the headquarters for U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT) and U.S. Fifth Fleet in 1995.
These changes marked NSA Bahrain's emergence as a strategic hub for U.S. operations in the region. The base’s role expanded significantly during this period.
NSA Bahrain played a critical role during the Gulf War in 1990–1991, serving as a command and control center for coalition naval operations. It has since supported operations including Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
The base hosts key units such as destroyer squadrons, logistics commands, and multinational task forces. Its operational scope has grown to meet evolving security needs.
Today, NSA Bahrain remains the primary U.S. naval installation in the Gulf. It supports over 7,000 U.S. military and civilian personnel, as well as coalition partners.
- Maritime security remains a core mission.
- The base supports anti-piracy operations and regional stability efforts.
- NSA Bahrain has not undergone any significant official name changes since its establishment.
Major Units & Training Programs
250501-N-IR096-1152 Misha Ross, advanced program coordinator, University of Maryland Global Campus, delivers remarks during the commencement at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain, May 1, 2025. NSA Bahrain enables the forward operations and responsiveness of U.S. and allied forces in support of...
Major Units
U.S. Naval Forces Central Command (NAVCENT)
NAVCENT serves as the U.S. Navy component of U.S. Central Command, overseeing naval operations and maritime security in the Middle East, including the Persian Gulf, Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and parts of the Indian Ocean.
U.S. Fifth Fleet
The Fifth Fleet is responsible for naval forces and operations in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, supporting maritime security, deterrence, and power projection in the region.
Task Force 55
Task Force 55 commands surface combatants and patrol craft, conducting maritime security operations, theater security cooperation, and regional partnership missions in the Middle East.
Training Schools
Naval Security Force Training
Overview
Provides force protection, anti-terrorism, and security operations training for Navy personnel assigned to base and shipboard security roles.
Course Length
2-4 weeks
Who Attends
Navy security personnel and designated watchstanders
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to NSA Bahrain! Arriving at an overseas installation can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right documents and information will make your transition smoother. Review these steps carefully to ensure a hassle-free check-in. For more details, visit the official NSA Bahrain website at NSA Bahrain.
NSA Bahrain's main gate is the primary entry point for all personnel and visitors. The main gate operates 24/7 to accommodate arrivals at any time. All adults must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved base access credential. State driver's licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's heightened security posture. If you need to sponsor a visitor or family member, they must be vetted and issued a temporary pass at the Visitor Control Center before entering the installation.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Passports (for all family members)
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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 and Dental Records
NSA Bahrain offers a robust sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. Contact your gaining unit or command to request a sponsor before your arrival. Sponsors can assist with pre-arrival questions, transportation, and initial check-in procedures.
Formal in-processing takes place at the NSA Bahrain Welcome Center, located near the main gate. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0800–1600. During in-processing, you will visit key offices such as Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical. Plan for the process to take 2–3 business days, depending on your individual needs and required briefings.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the main gate of NSA Bahrain. The VCC operates Sunday through Thursday, 0700–1700, and provides services including visitor pass issuance, DBIDS registration, and guest sponsorship processing. Arrive early to avoid delays, especially during peak hours.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Military One Source is the U.S. Transportation Command’s one-stop shop for personal property information and access to systems: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/moving-housing/moving/pcs-and-military-moves . (Courtesy photo)
NSA Bahrain is an OCONUS (Outside Continental United States) duty station. After receiving your official orders, immediately contact your local Transportation Office to start your move. You can choose to ship your Household Goods (HHG) using the government-contracted carrier or manage your own move with a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Use the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil to schedule, track, and manage your shipment. Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help offset costs during your transition. TLE covers temporary lodging at your losing or gaining location, while DLA helps with miscellaneous moving expenses. For OCONUS moves like NSA Bahrain, you may qualify for up to 60 days of TLE. Plan ahead for overseas requirements such as passports, visas, and medical screenings. Review the base’s arrival guide and connect with a sponsor for local insights. Check the Navy’s Family Readiness resources for help with schools, housing, and local orientation.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Start passport and visa applications early for all family members.
- Keep all important documents—orders, passports, medical records—with you during travel.
- Photograph valuables and inventory household goods before packing.
- Communicate with the Transportation Office to confirm shipment dates and requirements.
- Review pet import rules and begin arrangements well in advance.
- Familiarize yourself with local customs and base-specific arrival procedures.
Important Forms & Links
Access to the Defense Personal Property System for scheduling and tracking your move.
Official rates for TLE, DLA, and other travel entitlements.
Comprehensive PCS checklists, entitlements, and relocation support.
Official NSA Bahrain base information and newcomer resources.
Space-A Travel & Passenger Terminal
Terminal Contact Information
Terminal Location
NSA BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN 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.
Wi-Fi Access
Free Wi-Fi available for passengers.
Restrooms
Clean and accessible restrooms.
Snack Bar/Vending Machines
Light snacks and drinks for purchase.
Space-A Eligibility & Signup
For detailed Space-Available (Space-A) travel eligibility requirements and the most current sign-up procedures for flights from NSA BAHRAIN, BAHRAIN, 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: Bahrain Passenger Terminal
It's always recommended to confirm details well in advance of your intended travel dates.
Common Destinations
Ramstein AB, Germany
Arrive early as this is a popular route; be prepared for cooler weather.
Al Udeid AB, Qatar
Check entry requirements for Qatar; flights may fill quickly with duty passengers.
Sigonella NAS, Italy
Monitor schedules closely; bring snacks for longer layovers.