RAF Lakenheath Base Information

Introduction to RAF Lakenheath

RAF Lakenheath is a Royal Air Force station located in Suffolk, England. The base has been in operation since 1941 and has played a significant role in various military operations throughout its history. Currently, it is home to the United States Air Force’s 48th Fighter Wing, which operates the F-15E Strike Eagle and F-15EX aircraft. The base is one of the largest employers in the region, with a significant impact on the local economy.

History of RAF Lakenheath

The history of RAF Lakenheath dates back to 1941, when it was first constructed as a RAF bomber station. During World War II, the base was used by the Royal Air Force and the United States Army Air Forces to launch bombing missions against Germany. In the post-war period, the base was used for various purposes, including as a fighter base and a reconnaissance base. In 1960, the base was transferred to the United States Air Force, which has since used it as a fighter base.

Units and Operations

The 48th Fighter Wing is the primary unit based at RAF Lakenheath. The wing operates the F-15E Strike Eagle and F-15EX aircraft, which are used for a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and reconnaissance. The wing is composed of several squadrons, including the 492nd Fighter Squadron, the 493rd Fighter Squadron, and the 494th Fighter Squadron. In addition to the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath is also home to several other units, including the 48th Operations Group, the 48th Maintenance Group, and the 48th Mission Support Group.

Facilities and Infrastructure

RAF Lakenheath has a range of facilities and infrastructure to support its operations. The base has two runways, each approximately 9,000 feet long, as well as a variety of hangars, maintenance facilities, and administrative buildings. The base is also home to a hospital, a school, and a range of recreational facilities, including a gym, a pool, and a theater. In recent years, the base has undergone significant upgrades, including the construction of new hangars and maintenance facilities, as well as the installation of new air traffic control systems.

Community and Economy

RAF Lakenheath has a significant impact on the local community and economy. The base is one of the largest employers in the region, with thousands of personnel and civilians working on site. The base also generates significant revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. In addition, the base has a range of community outreach programs, including educational programs, charitable initiatives, and cultural events. Some of the key community and economy aspects include: * Job creation: The base creates thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, in the local area. * Local spending: The base generates significant revenue for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. * Community outreach: The base has a range of community outreach programs, including educational programs, charitable initiatives, and cultural events.

Category	Description
Base Location	Suffolk, England
Primary Unit	48th Fighter Wing
Aircraft Operated	F-15E Strike Eagle, F-15EX

📝 Note: The information provided is subject to change and may not reflect the current status of RAF Lakenheath.

In terms of key takeaways, RAF Lakenheath is a significant military base with a rich history and a range of facilities and infrastructure. The base has a substantial impact on the local community and economy, generating revenue and creating jobs. The 48th Fighter Wing is the primary unit based at the airport, operating the F-15E Strike Eagle and F-15EX aircraft. With its long history and ongoing operations, RAF Lakenheath remains an important part of the military landscape in the UK.