Davis-Monthan Air Force Base (DM AFB), strategically located within the city limits of Tucson, Arizona, is a vital installation under Air Combat Command with a rich aviation history. Established in the 1920s, DM AFB has evolved into a multi-faceted base known for its unique blend of operational missions, strategic headquarters, and unparalleled aircraft storage capabilities. Its location in the Sonoran Desert provides excellent flying weather year-round, supporting high operational tempos for its diverse units.

The host unit, the 355th Wing, is renowned for its expertise in Close Air Support (CAS) and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR). The wing flies and maintains the iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II “Warthog,” providing critical air support to ground forces. Additionally, through units like the 563rd Rescue Group, the 355th Wing operates HC-130J Combat King II aircraft and HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters, ensuring personnel recovery capabilities are ready worldwide. Military families relocating to Davis-Monthan find themselves integrated into the vibrant Tucson community.

Beyond the 355th Wing’s direct mission, Davis-Monthan hosts several key tenant units critical to national security. Notably, it is home to Headquarters Twelfth Air Force (Air Forces Southern – AFSOUTH), responsible for U.S. Air Force operations in Central and South America and the Caribbean. DM AFB also houses the 55th Electronic Combat Group, operating EC-130H Compass Call aircraft for electronic warfare missions, further diversifying the base’s contributions.

Perhaps the most visually distinctive feature of Davis-Monthan AFB is the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG), famously known as “The Boneyard.” This unique facility provides critical aircraft storage, regeneration, and parts reclamation services for aircraft from across the Department of Defense and other federal agencies, sprawling across thousands of acres adjacent to the base. The combination of high-tempo flight operations, strategic headquarters, and the unique AMARG mission makes Davis-Monthan a cornerstone of American airpower.