BA 113 inside tour


The BA113 is a French military airbase belonging to the French Air and Space Force, located in Saint-Dizier (Haute-Marne). Its ICAO code is LFSI, and it has a 2,414m concrete runway oriented 11/29, at an altitude of 139m





A Century of History


The original airport dates back to 1913, financed locally, and welcomed its first military aircraft in 1910.
During World War II, the site was occupied by the Luftwaffe (NJG4 night fighter squadrons), then recaptured by the Allies in 1944. In 1951, the base was officially established, then renamed "Commandant Antoine de Saint-Exupéry" in 1956.
From 1965 to 1988, it hosted nuclear deterrence via the Mirage IV.rom 1973 to 2005, the base operated the Jaguar (7th Fighter Wing), deployed in particular in the Gulf and Bosnia.
In 2006, the first Rafale squadron arrived (1/7 Provence), followed in 2010 by a second squadron for nuclear deterrence (1/91 Gascogne). In August 2015, the 4th Fighter Wing was re-formed in Saint-Dizier, and has operated all three Rafale squadrons since 2018.



Strategic and Operational Missions


1. Nuclear Deterrence


BA 113 is a key pillar of France's airborne nuclear deterrence, operating the Rafale B with the 1/4 Gascogne (nuclear strike), equipped with the ASMP-A nuclear missile since July 2010. The 1/4 Gascogne Squadron, based here, is one of the two Air and Space Force squadrons under the Strategic Air Forces Command (FAS).





2. Air Defense and 24/7 Readiness


Two Rafales are constantly on quick reaction alert, ready to take off within minutes to defend French airspace with the 2/4 La Fayette (air superiority). The base also contributes to homeland security operations, including anti-air defense (Crotale), national emergency plans (Vigipirate), and security for major events such as national holidays or summits.





3. Overseas Operations


BA 113 units are regularly deployed in foreign operations (OPEX)—notably in Afghanistan and Mali (Operation Serval)—providing tactical air support, reconnaissance, or precision strikes as needed.





4. Rafale Crew Training


The 3/4 Aquitaine Rafale Transformation Squadron trains both Air Force and Navy pilots, with 3/4 Aquitaine (Rafale B/C) – training, including Rafale Marine, and weapons systems officers on the Rafale B/C. It also supports the training of foreign crews as part of export contracts.


Socioeconomic Issues & Cohesion


With approximately 2,000 employees (military, civilian, and reservists), the base is the largest employer in the Haute-Marne department.Its activities generate nearly 400 spin-off jobs in local businesses and services, and directly impact nearly 3,800 residents, or 1 in 20 residents in an area of 110 municipalities.The base also implements civic initiatives: e.g., Air Raid 2023 (active/reserve resilience competition) and welcoming students for the Citizenship Passport program.


Conclusion


BA 113 plays a critical role in the French Air and Space Force’s missions to Ensures strategic nuclear deterrence, Maintains air sovereignty through 24/7 readiness, Trains Rafale combat crews for both national and international operations, Acts as a logistical and economic hub for the region, Serves as a historical and symbolic landmark.

I would like to particularly thank the French Air Force & Ba 113 personnel for their accessibility and kindness, without their accreditations some photos would not have been possible !





Thank you for your trust without which this inside tour would not have been possible.

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© Clément WLD, the pictures and the content of this website are not free of rights.