Colorado is home to several key military installations that support the U.S. Air Force, Space Force, Army, and national defense operations. Whether you're PCSing (Permanent Change of Station) to Colorado or just curious about the military presence in the state, this guide provides a breakdown of each base, its history, and its mission.
List of Military Bases in Colorado:
- United States Air Force Academy (USAFA)
- Buckley Space Force Base
- Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station
- Fort Carson
- Peterson Space Force Base
- Pueblo Chemical Weapons Depot
- Schriever Space Force Base
If you're preparing for a PCS move to Colorado, our VeteranPCS agents and lenders are here to help!
1 United States Air Force Academy (USAFA)
Location: Colorado Springs, CO Established: April 1954 Mission: Train over 4,000 cadets to become officers in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force
The U.S. Air Force Academy (USAFA) plays a critical role in officer training for the Air Force and Space Force. Since its founding, it has produced countless military leaders, including Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Lance Sijan, a Vietnam War hero who became a prisoner of war.
Key Facts:
Covers 18,000+ acres in Colorado Springs Home to Air Education and Training Command and Space Training & Readiness Command Popular tourist attraction with iconic architecture and a cadet chapel
More info: USAFA Official Website
2 Buckley Space Force Base (SFB)
Location: Aurora, CO Established: Formerly Buckley Air Force Base, now a Space Force installation Mission: Missile warning and space operations
Buckley SFB is home to Space Base Delta 2 (SBD2), which provides missile warning systems that protect the United States and its allies. It also supports 90+ tenant units, including:
Space Delta 4 (DEL 4) – Missile Warning Delta 140th Air Wing – Colorado Air National Guard Navy Operational Support Center & Aerospace Data Facility-Colorado
The base supports a joint force of 3,500 active-duty service members, 4,000 National Guard personnel, and tens of thousands of veterans and dependents. It contributes $1 billion annually to the local economy.
More info: Buckley SFB Official Website
3 Cheyenne Mountain Space Force Station (CMSFS)
Location: Colorado Springs, CO Operational Since: 1967 Mission: NORAD & USNORTHCOM Command Center
Built during the Cold War, Cheyenne Mountain is a heavily fortified, underground military complex designed to withstand nuclear attacks. It serves as the Alternate Command Center for NORAD and U.S. Northern Command and is used for crew training and emergency operations.
More info: CMSFS Official Website
4 Fort Carson – "The Mountain Post"
Location: Colorado Springs, CO Established: 1942 (WWII-era) Mission: U.S. Army training and operations
Named after Gen. Kit Carson, Fort Carson has a longstanding history of supporting military readiness. Soldiers stationed at Fort Carson often assist with:
Wildfire response in Colorado's national forests Search-and-rescue operations Community outreach (350+ events annually)
With strong ties to local communities, Fort Carson plays a vital role in both state and national defense operations.
More info: Fort Carson Official Website
