About this Unit
Indian Springs Air Force Base, located in southern Nevada, was established during World War II as an auxiliary field to support training operations for nearby Las Vegas Army Air Field (now Nellis AFB). Throughout the Cold War, the base played a key role in supporting nuclear weapons testing at the Nevada Test Site, serving as a staging and support area for military operations. In the 1950s and beyond, Indian Springs also provided training grounds for aerial gunnery, bombing, and later, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations. In 2005, the base was renamed Creech Air Force Base, reflecting its evolving mission as a center for remotely piloted aircraft operations.
Historical Facts
• Origins as a WWII Airfield: Indian Springs Air Force Base (AFB) was originally established in 1942 as Indian Springs Auxiliary Army Airfield, serving as a training site for bomber crews during World War II.
• Nevada Test Site Support: The base played a critical role in supporting nuclear testing at the nearby Nevada Test Site, providing logistical, security, and air support for atomic tests during the 1950s and 1960s.
• U-2 Operations: Indian Springs AFB was involved in early U-2 spy plane operations, as its remote location provided ideal conditions for secret reconnaissance flight training and missions.
• Association with the Thunderbirds: The United States Air Force Thunderbirds, the Air Demonstration Squadron, often used Indian Springs as an emergency landing site and for training exercises due to its proximity to their home base at Nellis AFB.
• Renamed Creech AFB: In 2005, the base was officially renamed Creech Air Force Base in honor of General Wilbur L. Creech, a key figure in USAF tactical air command modernization.
• Hub of Drone Operations: The base is now known as the main hub for USAF unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations, particularly for the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper drones engaged in global surveillance and strike missions.
• Target Practice and Training: During the Cold War, Indian Springs was used for live-fire exercises and as a target range for fighter and bomber pilots, helping to refine tactics and weapons accuracy.
• VIP and Secret Visitors: Due to its proximity to the Nevada Test Site and Area 51, Indian Springs AFB has hosted numerous high-ranking military officials, scientists, and even Presidents during classified operations.
• Support for NASA Missions: The base has supported NASA recovery operations and training, providing a backup landing site for aircraft related to the space program.
• Role in Modern Warfare: Creech AFB (formerly Indian Springs) remains at the forefront of modern military doctrine, pioneering remote warfare and the integration of advanced drone technology into national defense strategies.
