Shannon Airport
Lily Pad / Small Outpost · Ireland
Status
Active
Type
Lily Pad
Location
Overseas
About This Installation
Shannon Airport has been de facto lily pad with key logistical role transporting U.S. forces to war zones.
💡 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. Shannon Airport in Ireland is one of these installations.
📍 Coordinates
52.7019°N, -8.9247°E · View on Google Maps →