Powidz Air Base
Powidz Air Base PCS Guide
Military Base History
U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. James C. McConville, left, shakes hands with U.S. Army Warrant Officer Anthony Bolerjack, an unmanned aerial system technician assigned Echo Company, 501st Aviation Regiment, Combat Aviation Brigade, 1st Armored Division (1AD CAB) operationally controlled by the 1st...
Powidz Air Base is a key military installation in west-central Poland, built by the Polish Air Force in the 1950s. The base’s original mission supported national air defense and hosted transport and bomber units during the Cold War.
Its strategic location made it a vital asset for Warsaw Pact operations, with infrastructure designed for rapid deployment and logistical support.
During the Cold War, Powidz hosted several Polish Air Force regiments, including transport and tactical aviation units. The base expanded significantly in the 1970s and 1980s.
Upgrades included hardened aircraft shelters, extended runways, and modernized maintenance facilities. These improvements reflected Powidz’s growing importance within the Polish and Warsaw Pact military structure.
After Poland joined NATO in 1999, Powidz Air Base transitioned to support alliance operations. The base became a hub for multinational exercises and logistics, hosting U.S. and allied forces for rotational deployments.
In the 2010s, the U.S. Army and Air Force began using Powidz for prepositioned equipment and as a forward operating site, enhancing NATO’s eastern flank.
Today, Powidz Air Base serves as a critical logistics and air mobility center for both Polish and U.S. forces. It supports large-scale exercises, rapid deployment, and the storage of military equipment.
The base has not undergone any significant official name changes and retains its original designation. Its expanded role underscores its importance in regional security and NATO deterrence efforts.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Brian Casey, from Helena, Montana, director of human resources for the 652nd Regional Support Group, guides a convoy of vehicles involved with the United Service Organizations New Year’s tour on Powidz Air Base, Powidz, Poland, January 8. The 652nd RSG worked with...
Major Units
497th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion (CSSB)
Provides logistical, supply, and sustainment support for U.S. Army and NATO operations in Poland and the region. Supports rotational forces and ensures readiness for ground operations.
1st Infantry Division (Forward) Headquarters Element
Serves as the forward command and control node for U.S. Army Europe, coordinating rotational armored and infantry brigade activities and strengthening NATO interoperability.
Arrival & In-Processing
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Welcome to Powidz Air Base! Arriving at a new installation can be exciting and challenging, so preparing your documents and understanding access procedures will ensure a smooth check-in. For the latest updates and resources, visit the official Powidz Air Base website.
The main entrance to Powidz Air Base is clearly marked and serves as the primary access point for all personnel and visitors. The main gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized individuals. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID or Common Access Card (CAC) at entry. If you use a state-issued driver's license, ensure it is REAL ID Act compliant—non-compliant IDs will not be accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of the base's robust security posture. To obtain a visitor or family member pass, report to the Visitor Control Center just outside the main gate with valid identification and your sponsor's information.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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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/Dental Records
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Immunization Records
Most incoming personnel are eligible for a sponsor through their gaining unit. Contact your unit's administrative office or the Powidz Air Base Welcome Center to request a sponsor. Sponsors help with arrival logistics, local information, and in-processing support.
Formal in-processing is conducted at the Powidz Air Base Welcome Center, located near the main gate for easy access upon arrival. The Welcome Center operates Monday through Friday, 0800 to 1600. You will check in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, and Medical offices. Plan for the process to take 2-3 business days, depending on your needs and required appointments.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the main gate of Powidz Air Base. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 0700 to 1700, and provides visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and guest sponsorship services. Bring valid identification and your sponsor's details to obtain access for visitors.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
U.S. Army Pfc. Fredrick Swingle, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, loads a moving truck with bags during the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks move out at Fort Bragg, N.C., Aug. 28, 2022. Fort Bragg is in a process of moving Soldiers out of the Smoke Bomb Hill barracks and into more suitable barracks on the installation. (U.S. Army Photo By Pfc. Austin Robertson)
Start your PCS to Powidz Air Base by reviewing your official orders and connecting with the Base Transportation Office. Early contact helps you book your Household Goods (HHG) shipment or plan a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY). Using the Defense Personal Property System (DPS) is required for scheduling and tracking your move.
You are entitled to benefits like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA). TLE helps cover lodging costs while you secure housing, and DLA assists with relocation expenses. Make sure to keep receipts and review your entitlements on official sites. HHG and PPM moves each have weight limits and reimbursement rules—check these in DPS and with the local office.
At Powidz Air Base, coordinate your arrival with your sponsor and the local support team. This ensures you get critical in-processing info and base-specific updates. Use official resources to check allowance rates and prepare for customs or unique local requirements.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you receive orders.
- Keep all important documents and orders with you during travel.
- Double-check HHG and PPM weight limits for your rank and family size.
- Photograph and inventory your belongings before pack-out.
- Label boxes with your name and destination address.
- Contact the Base Transportation Office early to secure preferred move dates.
- Review local Powidz Air Base arrival instructions for unique requirements.
Important Forms & Links
Schedule and manage your move online.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guides, checklists, and support for PCS moves.
Estimate your Dislocation Allowance.