Naval Air Station Fallon Nevada

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Nestled in the high desert of Northern Nevada, Naval Air Station Fallon (NAS Fallon) stands as a critical cornerstone of United States naval aviation training. Originally established in 1942 as a defensive airstrip during World War II, this remarkable facility has evolved into the Navy’s premier tactical air warfare training center, earning a reputation that resonates throughout military aviation circles.

Historical Foundations

The origins of NAS Fallon trace back to a pivotal moment in American military history. During the early stages of World War II, the Civil Aviation Administration and Army Air Corps constructed four airfields in the Nevada desert as part of the Western Defense Program. The primary objective was to create a strategic network of airstrips capable of repelling a potential Japanese invasion of the West Coast.

In 1943, the Navy assumed control of the existing runways, quickly transforming the location into a critical training facility. By June 10, 1944, Naval Auxiliary Air Station Fallon was officially commissioned, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey in military aviation preparation.

Transformation and Growth

The station’s history is marked by periods of remarkable transformation. After a brief period of reduced operations following World War II, the Korean conflict breathed new life into the installation. In 1951, Fallon became an Auxiliary Landing Field, and by October 1, 1953, it was fully reestablished by order of the Secretary of the Navy.

A significant milestone occurred on January 1, 1972, when the Navy upgraded Fallon from an auxiliary air station to a major aviation command, officially becoming Naval Air Station Fallon. The airfield itself was named Van Voorhis Field in 1958, honoring Lieutenant Commander Bruce A. Van Voorhis, a local Fallon native who received the Congressional Medal of Honor posthumously for his service in the South Pacific during World War II.

Training Excellence

Today, NAS Fallon is renowned as the Navy’s most comprehensive tactical air warfare training facility. The installation boasts:

• Four dedicated bombing ranges
• An advanced electronic warfare range
• A 14,000-foot runway - the longest in the Navy
• Over 240,000 acres of training areas

The base is home to several critical training units, including:

• Navy Fighter Weapons School (TOPGUN)
• Carrier Airborne Early Warning Weapons School
• Navy Rotary Wing Weapons School

Modern Mission

The Naval Aviation Warfighting Development Center (NAWDC) at NAS Fallon continues to be the primary authority for integrated strike warfare tactical development and training. Its mission encompasses comprehensive training for carrier air wings, ensuring that naval aviators are prepared for combat scenarios worldwide.

🛩️ Note: NAS Fallon enjoys more than 300 clear flying days per year, making it an ideal location for intensive aviation training.

The installation's commitment extends beyond training, focusing on innovative resource management and maintaining harmony with the surrounding Northern Nevada environment. With its state-of-the-art facilities and dedication to excellence, Naval Air Station Fallon remains a critical asset in maintaining the United States Navy's air superiority.