Damblain Air Base

The closure was a direct result of a major restructuring of the French Armed Forces. In the post-Cold War era, the French government implemented plans to modernize its military, increase efficiency, and reduce costs. This involved consolidating forces and closing several military bases, including Damblain, which was deemed strategically redundant. The decision was purely for military and budgetary reasons, not due to any accident or local economic failure.

The site has been successfully converted into a civilian economic hub known as the 'Pôle d'activités de Damblain-Chamois' or 'Aéropôle de Damblain'. The former military infrastructure has been repurposed for several uses:

- **Automotive Testing and Driver Training**: The main runway and taxiways are used as a high-speed track by companies like GTR-Performance for supercar driving experiences, corporate events, and professional driver training.
- **Industrial and Logistics Park**: Many of the hangars and buildings have been converted into warehouses, workshops, and business premises for various local and regional companies.
- **Renewable Energy**: A significant portion of the site is home to one of France's largest ground-mounted photovoltaic power stations (solar farms), capitalizing on the large, open, and secure space.
- **Recreational Aviation**: While no longer a certified airport, a small section is sometimes used by ultralight aircraft, which is likely the origin of the non-standard 'FR-1242' identifier.

Damblain Air Base has a significant Cold War history.

1. **NATO Origins**: It was constructed between 1953 and 1956 as a NATO Dispersed Operating Base (DOB). Its primary purpose was to serve as a forward base for USAF (United States Air Forces in Europe) fighter wings in the event of a conflict with the Warsaw Pact. However, following France's withdrawal from NATO's integrated military command in 1966, it was never permanently occupied by American forces.

2. **French Air Force (Armée de l'Air) Operations**: The French Air Force took full control of the base, which was initially designated Base Aérienne 902. Its former ICAO code was LFYD. It became a key frontline fighter base:
- **Mirage IIIE (1966-1974)**: It was the home of the 3e Escadre de Chasse (3rd Fighter Wing), equipped with Dassault Mirage IIIE fighter-bombers, a cornerstone of France's tactical nuclear deterrent and conventional strike force.
- **SEPECAT Jaguar (1976-1988)**: The base later hosted the 4e Escadre de Chasse (4th Fighter Wing) and its SEPECAT Jaguar A/E ground-attack aircraft. These aircraft were vital for low-altitude penetration and strike missions.

3. **Decline and Closure**: After the 4th Fighter Wing relocated to Luxeuil Air Base in 1988, Damblain's operational importance declined significantly. It was downgraded to a storage and support facility, serving as a detachment of Base Aérienne 133 Nancy-Ochey, which ultimately sealed its fate during the military restructuring of the 2000s.

There are no known plans or prospects to reopen Damblain as a certified public or military airport. The extensive and successful conversion of the site into an industrial park, automotive track, and solar farm represents a permanent change in use. The local government's strategy is focused on continuing this economic redevelopment rather than reverting to aviation operations. The term 'Aéropôle' in its current name is a nod to its heritage, not an indication of future aviation plans.