Martina Franca Air Force Base

Military Mission Conversion. The base's original function as the 32nd Radar Squadron (32º Gruppo Radar) was phased out due to a strategic reorganization and technological modernization of the Italian Air Force's national air defense network. The Cold War-era surveillance role became redundant with the implementation of newer, more integrated systems.

The site is an active and important Italian Air Force installation. Since 2004, it has served as the headquarters for the 16° Stormo 'Protezione delle Forze' (16th Wing 'Force Protection'). This is a highly specialized ground combat unit responsible for the security and defense of air force personnel, assets, and installations, both in Italy and on deployed operations abroad. The base is now a training and operational center for the 'Fucilieri dell'Aria' (Air Riflemen), the Italian Air Force's elite ground troops.

The Martina Franca Air Force Base was a crucial strategic site during the Cold War. Established as the 3rd Sector of Operational Control (3° SOC), it was a key node in the NATO Air Defence Ground Environment (NADGE) system. Its primary unit, the 32nd Radar Squadron, was responsible for the surveillance and air defense control of a vast portion of Southern Italy's airspace. The base did not have a runway for fixed-wing aircraft; its operations were centered around its powerful radar installations and a helipad (identified by the ICAO code) for liaison and transport helicopters.

There are no plans or prospects for this facility to open as a civilian or commercial airport. It was never designed as such, and it currently serves a critical, ongoing mission as an active military base for a specialized Italian Air Force unit.