Malmstrom Air Force Base

Malmstrom Air Force Base, situated in Great Falls, Montana, under the expansive “Big Sky,” is a cornerstone of the United States’ strategic nuclear deterrence. As one of three bases operating Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs), Malmstrom’s mission is of paramount importance to national security. The base is home to the 341st Missile Wing of Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC), whose personnel are responsible for a vast missile complex spanning thousands of square miles across central Montana.

The primary mission of the 341st Missile Wing is to operate, maintain, and secure the Minuteman III ICBM force, ensuring this critical leg of the nuclear triad is safe, secure, and effective. This mission is executed by a dedicated team of missileers in underground launch control centers, highly skilled maintenance technicians, and a large contingent of security forces professionals who safeguard the assets 24/7 across the sprawling missile field. The base’s motto, “Defensores Libertatis” (Defenders of Liberty), reflects this solemn responsibility.

Beyond its strategic missile mission, Malmstrom AFB is also home to key tenant units like the 819th RED HORSE Squadron, a highly mobile and self-sufficient heavy construction unit capable of rapid global deployment. The base also hosts elements of the Montana Air National Guard. The diverse missions at Malmstrom contribute significantly to both strategic deterrence and conventional combat support capabilities.

Military personnel and their families stationed at Malmstrom AFB are welcomed by the supportive Great Falls community and enjoy access to Montana’s world-class outdoor recreation, including fishing on the Missouri River, hiking in the nearby mountains, and visiting national parks. Life at this northern-tier base presents unique challenges, including harsh winters, but also offers a strong sense of community and the honor of executing one of the nation’s most critical defense missions.