Muwaffaq Salti Air Base

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Nestled in the expansive plains of Azraq, Jordan, Muwaffaq Salti Air Base stands as a critical strategic installation for the Royal Jordanian Air Force (RJAF) and international military operations. Named after a courageous Jordanian pilot who sacrificed his life in 1966, this air base represents more than just a military facility – it embodies Jordan’s rich aviation history and geopolitical significance.

Historical Origins and Significance

The roots of Muwaffaq Salti Air Base trace back to 1918 during World War I, when the legendary T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, utilized the historic Azraq castle and surrounding plains as a strategic landing ground. The area’s exceptional visibility and favorable flying conditions made it an ideal location for aerial operations.

In 1976, the Royal Jordanian Air Force recognized the strategic potential of this location and began constructing a major air base. The base was officially inaugurated on May 24, 1981, honoring Lieutenant Muwaffaq Salti, who heroically died in battle with the Israeli Air Force on November 13, 1966, during the Battle of Samou.

Strategic Military Capabilities

Muwaffaq Salti Air Base boasts impressive infrastructure that supports diverse military operations:

• Runway Specifications:

  Runway Direction	Length	Surface Type
  08/26	2,750 meters	Asphalt
  13/31	3,005 meters	Asphalt

• Hosts multiple fighter squadrons, including the 1st, 2nd, and 6th Fighter Squadrons equipped with F-16 Fighting Falcons
• Elevation of 1,720 feet (524 meters) above mean sea level

International Military Presence

The base has become a crucial hub for international military operations. Since 2013, the United States has actively used Muwaffaq Salti for regional strategic purposes. In 2019, the U.S. initiated a substantial $143 million expansion of the air base, which included:

• A new airlift apron
• Personnel recovery and special operations forces apron
• Close air support and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) apron
• Cargo marshaling yard

Current Operational Role

Today, Muwaffaq Salti Air Base serves multiple critical functions:

• Primary base for Royal Jordanian Air Force fighter squadrons
• Strategic location for international military interventions
• Hosts various aircraft, including F-15 attack jets and MQ-9 Reaper drones
• Partially operated by the 407th Air Expeditionary Group

🛫 Note: The base's strategic importance has made it a key location for regional military operations, particularly in countering threats from groups like the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL).