Yokota AB, Japan Installation Guide

LOCATION

Yokota Air Base is located on the island of Honshu, Japan, on the Kanto Plain 28 miles northwest of Tokyo at the foothills of the Okutama Mountains. The base lies within the political boundaries of six municipalities. These are Akishima, Fussa, Hamura, Mizuho, Musashi-Murayama, and Tachikawa.

HISTORY

Yokota AB opened in 1940 under Japan as Tama Air Field. Yokota was used as a test facility for the Japanese Imperial Army. In 1945, Tama Air Field became Yokota AB. The 374th Air Wing formed in Australia in 1942, was among the first to fight in Korea in 1950. Then served in Vietnam from 1960's - 1970's and arrived in Yokota in 1989.

MISSION

Yokota is both a US and UN base; primary a UNC airlift hub. Yokota Air Base serves as the host base for Headquarters, United States Forces Japan and Fifth Air Force. The 374th Airlift Wing provides tactical airlift, medical evacuation, and distinguished visitor airlift for the western Pacific, while serving as a key strategic airlift hub for the entire theater.

POPULATION SERVED

Yokota has a population of over eleven thousand. Approximately 3,446 active duty military, 4,130 dependents, 196 DOD Civilians, 1,967 local national, 163 DODDS teachers and staff, 286 NAF employees, 75 AAFES employees, 950 Contractors and retirees.