Kharmiyah Airstrip

Military Decommissioning. The airstrip was a temporary, forward-basing airfield constructed to support Coalition forces during the 1990-1991 Gulf War (Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm). With the end of the war and the drawdown of forces from the immediate border area, the facility was no longer required and was subsequently abandoned.

The site is completely abandoned and in a state of decay. High-resolution satellite imagery shows the single runway, extensive taxiways, and large parking aprons are still clearly visible. However, the surfaces are weathered, cracked, and being progressively covered by desert sand. There are no remaining permanent structures such as hangars or a control tower, as any facilities were likely temporary and removed after the conflict. The site is not used for any purpose and is slowly being reclaimed by the surrounding desert environment.

Kharmiyah Airstrip was a critical logistical hub for Coalition forces, primarily the United States military, during the Gulf War. Its strategic location in northeastern Saudi Arabia, near the Iraqi and Kuwaiti borders and the city of Hafar al-Batin, allowed it to serve as a forward operating location. It was instrumental in supporting the massive buildup of ground troops for Operation Desert Shield. During Operation Desert Storm, it handled a high volume of military transport aircraft (such as the C-130 Hercules) delivering essential supplies, equipment, and personnel close to the front lines. It was part of a vital network of temporary and permanent airfields that enabled the rapid projection and sustainment of military power for the liberation of Kuwait.

There are no known plans or prospects for reopening the Kharmiyah Airstrip. Its original purpose was temporary and conflict-specific. Any strategic or logistical needs in the region are now served by large, permanent military bases (like King Khalid Military City) and civilian airports (like Qaisumah-Hafr Al Batin Airport). The cost of clearing the sand, repairing the extensive paved surfaces, and rebuilding infrastructure would be prohibitive, and there is no current strategic or economic justification for its reactivation.