---
title: What Military Bases are in Maine?
slug: what-military-bases-are-in-maine
description: Find every active military base in Maine—Portsmouth Naval Shipyard anchors the state—plus PCS housing tips, VA-loan guidance, and veteran-friendly agents.
publishedAt: 2024-07-02T13:33:13.000Z
updatedAt: 2026-05-02T00:00:00.000Z
author: VeteranPCS
categories: [US Military Bases]
canonical: https://www.veteranpcs.com/blog/what-military-bases-are-in-maine
---

# What Military Bases are in Maine?

Maine has a long and distinguished military history, dating back to the 1600s when its early settlers were involved in the French and Indian Wars. Since then, Maine’s citizens have played a role in every major U.S. conflict. Today, the state is home to one major military installation: **Naval Shipyard Portsmouth**.

### **Naval Shipyard Portsmouth**

Often referred to as **Portsmouth Navy Yard**, this installation holds the distinction of being the **oldest continuously operating shipyard in the U.S. Navy**. Established in **1800**, the shipyard was strategically built to support **warship construction and maintenance**, ensuring the Navy had the necessary infrastructure to maintain fleet readiness.

#### **Strategic Importance**

- Located on the **Piscataqua River**, the shipyard benefits from **deepwater access** and **swift currents** that prevent ice blockages, making it an ideal location for year-round operations.
- While it originally served as a **warship construction center**, its modern mission has shifted to **submarine maintenance and modernization**.

#### **Current Mission and Operations**

Today, **Naval Shipyard Portsmouth** specializes in:

- **Overhauling and refueling nuclear submarines** to extend their operational life.
- **Modernizing existing submarines** to integrate advanced technology and improve combat readiness.
- **Providing engineering and logistics support** to ensure the U.S. Navy maintains a **highly capable and mission-ready fleet**.

As one of the **most critical shipyards in the U.S.**, Portsmouth continues to play a key role in **national defense**, supporting both active-duty personnel and the civilian workforce that keeps the base running efficiently.

### **Planning a Move to Maine? We Can Help!**

If you’re **PCS’ing to Maine** or relocating for a new assignment, **VeteranPCS** can connect you with **military-friendly real estate agents and lenders** who understand the unique needs of veterans and active-duty service members. Whether you’re looking for housing near **Portsmouth Navy Yard** or need guidance on **VA home loans**, our team is here to support your transition.

[**Connect with an Agent or Lender in Maine Today**](https://veteranpcs.com/maine)**!**

### **Frequently Asked Questions**

**1. What is the primary role of Naval Shipyard Portsmouth?**
The shipyard specializes in **submarine overhaul, maintenance, and modernization**, ensuring that nuclear-powered submarines remain mission-ready for decades.

**2. How long has Portsmouth Navy Yard been in operation?**
It was established in **1800** and remains the **oldest continuously operating shipyard in the U.S. Navy**.

**3. Is Portsmouth Navy Yard located in Maine or New Hampshire?**
Although named **Portsmouth Navy Yard**, the installation is technically located in **Kittery, Maine**, just across the river from **Portsmouth, New Hampshire**.

**4. Can active-duty personnel and veterans find housing near the base?**
Yes. The area surrounding **Portsmouth Navy Yard** offers a variety of housing options, and **VeteranPCS** can connect you with real estate professionals who specialize in working with military families.

**5. Does Portsmouth Navy Yard still build new ships?**
No, the shipyard no longer builds new ships. Its primary focus is **maintaining, overhauling, and modernizing submarines** to extend their service life and improve capabilities.

**Are you getting ready to move to Maine? Let VeteranPCS help you find the right home and financing options for your next assignment.**

[**Get Connected with a Military-Friendly Agent or Lender Today**](https://veteranpcs.com/maine)**!**