Arizona plays a vital role in supporting the U.S. military with seven major bases serving thousands of active-duty service members, reservists, and National Guard personnel. From state-of-the-art pilot training to cutting-edge weapons testing and cyber intelligence operations, each installation contributes to national defense while offering military families unique living experiences across the state.
Whether you’re heading to Davis-Monthan or Luke AFB, you don’t have to navigate it alone. PCS Pay It Forward Support Groups bring military spouses together through coffee meetups, playdates, and community events that help you settle in and make meaningful connections fast. It’s more than a move—it’s a built-in support system.
Have orders to PCS to one of the military bases in Arizona? Need help exploring housing, neighborhoods, or schools? For custom one-on-one support, start your PCS PLAN here.
Arizona’s Military Community
Arizona is home to over 100,000 service members across the Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, and National Guard. The state’s geography—including vast desert ranges and proximity to the Mexican border—makes it ideal for:
- Aviation combat training
- Cybersecurity and military intelligence
- Weapons testing and drone development
- Reserve and National Guard logistics
The installations here are among the largest and most operationally diverse in the country.
Air Force Bases in Arizona
Luke Air Force Base (Glendale)
Mission: Fighter pilot training for F-16 and F-35 aircraft
Location: Glendale, just west of Phoenix
Luke AFB is the largest fighter pilot training base in the world, hosting the 56th Fighter Wing and the 944th Fighter Wing. It also supports international pilot training, contributing to global military cooperation. With close proximity to major metro amenities, Luke AFB is popular among military families relocating to Arizona.
Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (Tucson)
Mission: A-10C Thunderbolt II training and aircraft storage
Location: Southeastern Tucson
Home to the 355th Wing, 309th AMARG (The Boneyard), and 55th Electronic Combat Group, Davis-Monthan AFB is one of the Air Force’s busiest and most vital bases. It also includes the 943rd Rescue Group, which specializes in search and rescue operations
117th Air Refueling Wing – Birmingham
Stationed at Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport, this wing delivers aerial refueling support to both U.S. and allied aircraft, enhancing global mobility.
Army Bases in Arizona
Fort Huachuca (Sierra Vista)
Mission: Military Intelligence and cybersecurity training
Location: Sierra Vista, near the Mexican border
Fort Huachuca is one of the oldest and most sophisticated intelligence hubs in the Army. It houses the U.S. Army Intelligence Center, Network Enterprise Technology Command, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) labs.
Yuma Proving Ground (Yuma County)
Mission: Testing of military vehicles, artillery, and electronic warfare
Location: Yuma and La Paz counties
One of the world’s largest military test centers, YPG simulates combat conditions for tanks, helicopters, missiles, and drones. It offers extreme desert testing environments ideal for cutting-edge military innovation.
Camp Navajo (Flagstaff)
Mission: Ammunition storage and National Guard training
Location: Bellemont, just west of Flagstaff
Initially opened in 1942 as the Navajo Ordnance Depot, Camp Navajo today is Arizona’s largest National Guard facility. It provides large-scale munitions storage, industrial support, and high-altitude training operations.
Marine Corps Base in Arizona
MCAS Yuma
Mission: Air-to-ground combat training for Marine aviation
Location: Adjacent to Yuma International Airport
MCAS Yuma is home to MAWTS-1 (Marine Aviation Weapons and Tactics Squadron One), one of the most elite tactical training programs in the Marines. The base also supports F/A-18 Hornets, AV-8B Harriers, and CH-53E Super Stallion helicopters.
Relocating to Arizona? Military Families Start Here
MCAS Yuma
PCSing to Arizona comes with many advantages—plentiful sunshine, strong military communities, and access to outdoor adventure. Whether you’re headed to Tucson, Yuma, Sierra Vista, or Phoenix, here are a few things to consider:
- Housing: Check your BAH rate and explore housing near Arizona military bases.
- Schools: Arizona offers many military-friendly public and charter school options.
VA Loan: Arizona has affordable housing markets perfect for first-time homebuyers using VA loans.
Final Thoughts: Arizona is a Top Choice for Military Life
Arizona continues to lead in training, innovation, and mission-critical readiness for the U.S. Armed Forces. Its installations offer robust career opportunities, excellent facilities, and strong support systems for families and transitioning veterans.
From the cool mountains of Flagstaff to the deserts of Yuma, there’s no shortage of unique living options and welcoming communities.
Have orders to PCS to one of the military bases in Arizona? Need help exploring housing, neighborhoods, or schools? For custom one-on-one support, start your PCS PLAN here.
