--- title: What Military Bases are in Illinois? slug: what-military-bases-are-in-illinois description: Chicago military bases and the rest of Illinois—Naval Station Great Lakes, Scott AFB and more—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan guidance, and agent matches. publishedAt: 2024-06-25T15:06:54.000Z updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z author: VeteranPCS categories: [US Military Bases] canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-illinois --- # What Military Bases are in Illinois? Illinois is home to a **strong military presence**, with key installations that support **training, logistics, and national defense operations**. These bases play a **crucial role in military readiness** while also contributing to the **state’s economy and local communities**. Whether you are **PCSing to Illinois, transitioning to civilian life, or exploring career opportunities**, understanding these bases and their missions is essential. ## **Military Installations in Illinois** Illinois is home to three major military bases, each serving a **unique role within the U.S. Armed Forces**: - **Naval Station Great Lakes** (Navy) – The Navy’s primary training facility for enlisted personnel. - **Rock Island Arsenal** (Army) – A major logistics and weapons manufacturing hub. - **Scott Air Force Base** (Air Force) – A central command and mobility base supporting global operations. ## **Naval Station Great Lakes** Naval Station Great Lakes is the **largest naval training facility** in the United States and serves as the **home of the Navy’s only boot camp**. Located on **the shores of Lake Michigan**, just north of Chicago, this base has been **training sailors since 1911**. ### **Key Missions:** - **Recruit Training Command (RTC)** – Every enlisted Navy recruit undergoes **basic training** here before being assigned to their specialty schools. - **Surface Warfare Officers School (SWOS)** – Advanced training for officers in **surface fleet operations**. - **Technical Training Schools** – Specialized programs in **engineering, electronics, and logistics**. Naval Station Great Lakes is a **critical foundation** for the Navy, preparing tens of thousands of sailors annually for service. For more information, visit the **Naval Station Great Lakes website.** ## **Rock Island Arsenal** Rock Island Arsenal, located along the **Mississippi River in western Illinois**, is the **largest government-owned weapons manufacturing arsenal in the United States**. Established in **1816**, it remains a **key logistics and production hub for the U.S. Army**. ### **Key Missions:** - **Manufacturing and Maintenance** – Produces military **weapons, equipment, and ammunition** for the U.S. Army. - **Logistics and Supply Chain Management** – Houses the **Army Sustainment Command (ASC)** and the **First Army Headquarters**. - **Research and Development** – Supports **military technology innovation and testing**. Rock Island Arsenal is a **vital center for military logistics and readiness**, ensuring **U.S. forces are equipped and supplied for global operations**. For more information, visit the **Rock Island Arsenal website.** ## **Scott Air Force Base** Scott Air Force Base, located in **southern Illinois near St. Louis, Missouri**, is a **major hub for military air mobility and communications**. Established in **1917**, it is one of the **Air Force’s oldest continuously operating bases** and plays a key role in **global logistics and transportation**. ### **Key Missions:** - **Air Mobility Command (AMC)** – Coordinates worldwide **airlift and aerial refueling missions**. - **U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM)** – Oversees the **logistics of moving troops and equipment** across the globe. - **Cybersecurity and Communications** – Supports **high-level cyber operations and national defense communications**. Scott Air Force Base is **one of the most strategically important Air Force installations**, ensuring the **rapid movement of personnel and equipment worldwide**. For more information, visit the [**Scott Air Force Base website**](https://www.scott.af.mil/)**.** ## **PCSing to Illinois? Let Us Help You Find a Home** Relocating to Illinois for a **PCS move or new assignment** can be a challenge, but **VeteranPCS** is here to help. Whether you're looking for **on-base housing, off-base communities, or VA loan assistance**, we specialize in connecting **military families with trusted real estate agents** who understand the unique challenges of moving. Our network of **veteran and military-friendly real estate agents** can assist with: - Finding **on-base or off-base housing**. - Connecting with **VA loan specialists**. - Understanding the **best neighborhoods near each installation**. If you’re preparing for a move to Illinois, **contact us today** to connect with an **agent or lender** who understands your needs. ## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)** ### **1. How many military bases are in Illinois?** Illinois has **three major military installations**: **Naval Station Great Lakes, Rock Island Arsenal, and Scott Air Force Base**. ### **2. What is the largest military base in Illinois?** **Naval Station Great Lakes** is the **largest base**, serving as the **primary training center for enlisted Navy personnel**. ### **3. What branch has the biggest presence in Illinois?** The **Navy and Air Force** have the **largest presence**, with **Naval Station Great Lakes and Scott Air Force Base** playing critical roles in national defense. ### **4. Can military families live off base in Illinois?** Yes, many military families choose to **live off base**, especially near **Chicago, St. Louis, and Quad Cities**. [**Connect with our Agents & Lenders in Illinois Today**](https://veteranpcs.com/illinois) and make your move stress-free.