---
title: What Military Bases are in Delaware?
slug: what-military-bases-are-in-delaware
description: Find every active military base in Delaware—Dover AFB & USCG Indian River—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan guidance, and veteran-friendly real-estate agents.
publishedAt: 2023-11-20T21:51:40.000Z
updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z
author: VeteranPCS
categories: [US Military Bases]
canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-delaware
---

# What Military Bases are in Delaware?

Delaware has a long and distinguished military history, playing a crucial role in every major U.S. conflict from the American Revolution to today. The state was the site of key battles such as the **Battle of Cooch’s Bridge** and the **Battle of Brandywine Creek**. While Delaware's military presence has diminished over the years, it remains home to **three active military installations**.

## **Active Military Bases in Delaware**

### **1. Dover Air Force Base**

**Location:** Dover, DE

Dover Air Force Base (Dover AFB) is the **largest aerial port** in the Department of Defense. It plays a crucial role in **global airlift and air refueling operations**.

**Key Units and Operations:**

- **60th Air Mobility Wing (AMC)** – Provides global airlift and refueling support
- **349th Air Mobility Wing (AFRC)** – Air Force Reserve unit providing strategic air mobility
- **Mortuary Affairs Operations** – Dover AFB is home to the Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations, handling the dignified return of fallen service members

**History:**

- Established in **1941** as Dover Municipal Airport
- Leased to the **Army Air Corps** during WWII for pilot training
- Became **Dover Air Force Base** after the war

**For more information, visit:** [Dover Air Force Base](https://www.dover.af.mil/)

### **2. USCG Station Indian River**

**Location:** Rehoboth Beach, DE

U.S. Coast Guard Station Indian River ensures **maritime safety and security** in the **Indian River Inlet and surrounding waters**.

**Key Responsibilities:**

- **Search and rescue operations**
- **Law enforcement patrols**
- **Environmental protection and spill response**

**Facilities and Equipment:**

- Motor lifeboats and shallow-water response boats
- Helipad for emergency operations
- Mobile command center and dive team for specialized missions

**History:**

- Established in **1876** as the **Indian River Life-Saving Station**
- Has protected mariners and coastal communities for **over 140 years**

**For more information, visit:** USCG Station Indian River

### **3. USCG Marine Safety Detachment Lewes**

**Location:** Lewes, DE

U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Detachment (MSD) Lewes is a branch of **Sector Delaware Bay’s Prevention Department**. It ensures compliance with **maritime safety regulations** and conducts investigations in the region.

**Key Responsibilities:**

- Conducts **safety inspections** for commercial and recreational vessels
- Investigates **marine accidents and environmental incidents**
- Enforces **maritime laws and regulations**

**For more information, visit:** [USCG Marine Safety Detachment Lewes](https://www.uscg.mil/)

## **Moving to Delaware? We Can Help!**

If you're **PCSing to Delaware**, our **military-friendly real estate agents and lenders** are ready to assist you in finding the perfect home. Whether you're relocating to **Dover AFB**, the **Indian River area**, or **Lewes**, we have the expertise to make your transition seamless.

📩 **Contact us today to connect with a military-friendly real estate expert!**