This irreplaceable air station was commissioned in July 1961. This seemingly remote location was chosen based on two strategic factors: 1) the close proximity to the Navy’s seaport facilities allowing for logistical support, yet far enough away from major population centers to allow unencumbered flight operations and future infrastructure growth; 2) the flexibility in how the base could be built and expanded, because the lands surrounding the base were sparsely populated and used primarily for agriculture.
Today, NAS Lemoore is home to Commander Strike Fighter Wing Pacific (CSFWP) and Commander Joint Strike Fighter Wing (CJSFW). More than half of the Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft reside here, and it is the only Navy installation to house the F-35C Lightning II. NAS Lemoore hosts 16 operational Strike Fighter squadrons, two Fleet Replacement squadrons and one Search and Rescue squadron and four west coast Carrier Air Wing Commands and staff. On average, 210,000 flight operations occur annually. Locals are proud to hear the “Sound of Freedom” daily. The base provides a massive boon to local economy. In Fiscal Year 2019, the base generated $947 million for Kings County and environs and provides almost 8,500 jobs. Whether you just received orders here or ending your tour, are just visiting or have lived nearby all your life, NAS Lemoore is excited to share its patriotism and professionalism with you.
Located in a rich agricultural area, NAS Lemoore offers a small hometown atmosphere surrounded by California's playgrounds - Los Angeles, San Francisco, the Sierra Nevadas and the Pacific Ocean.