Qayyarah Airfield West
Overseas Base · Iraq
About This Installation
DEPARTURE 2020. The total number of US bases in Iraq is changing and particularly difficult to determine. There could be 8 or more rather than the 6 indicated here, which reflect the withdrawal of four bases in 2020. U.S. forces have occupied at least multiple bases and the base-like Green Zone since 2014; 505 bases at U.S. occupation’s height.
💡 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. Qayyarah Airfield West in Iraq is one of these installations.