Johnston Atoll Airfield
Lily Pad / Small Outpost · Johnston atoll
Status
Active
Type
Lily Pad
Location
Overseas
About This Installation
Uninhabited U.S. territory, under Navy development from 1934; became air base 1941; later nuclear testing, chemical weapons disposal. Marine protected area now; Air Force still claims.
💡 Why Does This Matter?
The United States maintains approximately 750 military bases in over 80 countries — more than any nation in world history. The annual cost of maintaining overseas bases exceeds $55 billion.
Critics argue that many overseas bases are Cold War relics that increase tensions, provoke "blowback," and drain resources from domestic needs. Supporters say they deter aggression and protect allies. Johnston Atoll Airfield in Johnston atoll is one of these installations.
📍 Coordinates
16.7346°N, -169.5261°E · View on Google Maps →