Duluth Air Force Base

Duluth Air Force Base, located near Duluth, Minnesota, was established in 1948 as a critical site for air defense during the early years of the Cold War. Initially operated by the Air Defense Command, the base hosted several fighter-interceptor squadrons, including the 11th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, responsible for protecting the upper Midwest from potential Soviet bomber attacks. Throughout its operational years, Duluth AFB was equipped with advanced radar and missile systems, playing a key role in the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) network. The base was eventually closed in 1983, with its facilities transitioning to civilian use as Duluth International Airport.