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186th Air Refueling Wing, Meridian, MS (186th ARW)

186th Air Refueling Wing
Meridian, MS
Fact Sheet

· Generate over $64 million dollars in economic activity each year in local community.

· Operate, maintain, and support nine KC-135R air refueling aircraft providing air-to-air refueling, cargo and passenger support to current operational missions of the US Air Force; average over 3,000 flying hours each year; also operate one C-26B counterdrug aircraft, supporting law enforcement in the southeastern United States.

· Approximately 1,000 traditional guard members with 415 full-time men and women including active guard, federal technicians, state employees, and civilian contractors.

· No airspace encroachment or environmental issues.

· 248th Air Traffic Control Squadron provides 100% of all civilian and military air traffic control for Key Field, including support of training for NAS Meridian and Columbus AFB.

· 186 ARW fire department provides 100% of Crash/Fire Rescue to all civilian and military aircraft at Key Field.

· Approximately 403,000 sq. ft. of facilities at Key Field. With construction of 248th Air Traffic Control facility ($6M) and 186th Security Forces facility ($1.5M), the base will have 100% of required facilities, all in good condition.

· Ramp capacity (1,047,656 sq. ft.) to accommodate 18 KC-135R aircraft or 12 KC-XXX aircraft simultaneously.

· One of only two units in the ANG with a two-bay hangar capable of housing two KC-135R aircraft side-by-side; in addition to a fuel cell repair hangar.

· Can expand to 18 KC-135R aircraft with no MILCON cost or facilities or land acquisition.

· Can expand to accommodate 20 KC-135R aircraft with some land acquisition (lease) and additional parking.

· Maintain very close relationship with Meridian Airport Authority for things such as operations, security, runway/taxiway repairs, etc.

· Over $650 million in assets including 10 aircraft, 37 buildings, and miscellaneous vehicles, support equipment, computer equipment and various other assets.

· Operate on longest commercial runway in state. 10,000 ft. X 150 ft. with an additional 500 ft. of overrun at each end.