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What Are The Military Bases In Iraq?

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Last updated on 5 min read

As of 2026, Iraq hosts several U.S. military installations primarily for advisory, training, and counter-terrorism support, including Camp Victory in Baghdad and Al Asad Airbase in Anbar Province.

Does the US still have military bases in Iraq?

Yes, the U.S. maintains a limited military presence in Iraq as of 2026, with approximately 2,500 troops primarily stationed at Al Asad Airbase and Camp Victory for advisory and counter-ISIS missions.

After the 2020 Strategic Framework Agreement, U.S. forces shifted from combat roles to training Iraqi Security Forces. Their deployment hinges on ongoing talks with Baghdad—nothing’s permanent without Iraqi government approval.

How many air bases are in Iraq?

Iraq operates around 100 airfields, with six major air bases used by the Iraqi Air Force, including Al-Bakr Air Base, Balad Air Base, and Kirkuk Air Base.

Some of these were rebuilt post-2017 with foreign help. You’ll find everything from tiny tactical strips to full-on hardened runways that handle fighter jets and cargo planes. Honestly, the infrastructure runs the gamut.

What is the largest army base in the United States?

Fort Bragg in North Carolina is the largest U.S. Army base by population and land area, covering 160,640 acres and hosting over 260,000 personnel, including active duty, reserve, and family members.

Opened in 1918, this place is home to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command and the XVIII Airborne Corps. Its sheer size and operational role make it the backbone of Army readiness—no wonder it’s so critical.

What US military bases are in Iraq?

As of 2026, the U.S. maintains a presence at Al Asad Airbase, Camp Victory in Baghdad, and several smaller forward operating bases, including locations near Mosul and Erbil.

These spots serve as hubs for training, logistics, and joint operations with Iraqi forces. Everything’s coordinated under the 2020 Strategic Framework Agreement—nothing happens without Baghdad’s say-so.

What is the largest U.S. military base in the world?

Rank Base Population Area (acres)
1 Fort Bragg, North Carolina 260,000 160,640
2 Fort Campbell, Kentucky/Tennessee 250,000 105,000
3 Joint Base Lewis–McChord, Washington 240,000 90,000

Where does Russia have military bases?

Russia maintains military bases in Armenia (102nd Military Base in Gyumri), Belarus (air and radar facilities), and Syria (Hmeimim Air Base), along with facilities in occupied Ukrainian territories.

These installations help Moscow project power across Eastern Europe, the South Caucasus, and the Eastern Mediterranean. In Syria, Russian troops have been there since 2015 under deals with Damascus—no signs of leaving anytime soon.

Do any countries have military bases in the US?

No foreign country operates a permanent military base on U.S. soil, though NATO allies occasionally conduct joint exercises and temporary deployments at invitation.

The U.S. might have over 800 overseas bases, but it doesn’t play host to any foreign installations within its own borders. Temporary training? Sure. Permanent bases? Not a chance.

Is there a US military base in Yemen?

No U.S. military base has operated in Yemen since 2015, when Al Anad Air Base was evacuated due to conflict and Houthi advances.

Counter-terrorism ops in Yemen now rely on ships and regional bases—no permanent footprint remains since the civil war kicked off.

Do we have soldiers in Iraq?

Yes, approximately 2,500 U.S. troops remain in Iraq as of 2026, primarily at Al Asad Airbase and in advisory roles with Iraqi forces.

Their focus? Training and supporting Iraqi Security Forces against leftover ISIS cells. Troop numbers get reviewed every quarter, always with Baghdad’s green light.

What was the largest US military base in Iraq?

Al Asad Airbase (formerly Ayn al-Asad) in Anbar Province was the largest U.S. base in Iraq during and after the 2003–2011 occupation.

It was a massive logistics hub back then, housing thousands of troops. After 2011, it shrank—until ISIS showed up in 2014, forcing the U.S. to expand it again. Now it’s still a key site.

Is there a US military base in Syria?

Yes, the U.S. maintains a military presence in northeast Syria, including facilities such as the Rumaylan Landing Zone (RLZ) and smaller patrol bases.

Around 900 troops are there to back the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) against ISIS remnants. The mission stays non-combat, but it’s still vital for keeping pressure on the group.

Which branch of the U.S. military is the most powerful?

The U.S. Army is the largest branch by personnel and is the most powerful in land warfare capabilities, with over one million active and reserve soldiers.

With its global footprint, combined arms structure, and massive pre-positioned stockpiles, the Army can handle just about any land mission. It’s also leading the charge in special ops and cyber integration—no other branch matches that.

Who has the largest military?

As of 2026, China maintains the world’s largest armed forces, with approximately 2.2 million active-duty personnel, followed by India, the United States, and Russia.

Beijing’s been bulking up its navy, missiles, and cyber units like crazy. The U.S. still outclasses everyone in tech and global reach, even with fewer troops.

What is the biggest air force base in the world?

Eglin Air Force Base in Florida is the largest by land area and mission scope, covering over 700 square miles and hosting the Air Force’s 96th Test Wing and 53rd Wing.

This place is the go-to spot for testing new weapons, electronic warfare systems, and aircraft. Its sheer size and range complexes make it essential for keeping the U.S. ahead in the skies.

What is the smallest military base in the US?

Ammunition Depot Indian Island in Port Hadlock, Washington, is among the smallest active U.S. military installations, operated by Naval Magazine Indian Island.

At just 3,000 acres, it’s mostly about storing and distributing ammo for the Pacific Fleet. With roughly a dozen active-duty personnel, it’s a tiny but crucial cog in naval logistics.

Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.
James Cartwright

James Cartwright is a geography writer and former high school geography teacher who has spent 20 years making maps and distances interesting. He can name every capital city from memory and insists that geography is the most underrated subject in school.