Bagram Airfield, also known as Bagram Air Base, was one of the largest U.S. military bases in Afghanistan during the War in Afghanistan that started in 2001. The airfield is located next to the ancient town of Bagram, 11 kilometers southeast of Charikar in the Parwan Province of Afghanistan. It is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) north of the capital, Kabul.
The airfield features a dual runway capable of handling any size military aircraft, including Lockheed Martin C-5 Galaxy and Antonov An-225. The base was capable of housing up to 10,000 troops and was structured to be a self-contained town, with various amenities for the personnel stationed there.
The base was originally built in the 1950s for military and civilian use. During the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in the 1980s, it was a key strategic base. After the Soviets withdrew, the base was left in disrepair until the U.S. took control following the invasion of Afghanistan in late 2001.
Bagram served as the main American hub of operations in the country to fight the Taliban and carry out counter-insurgency operations. The base was also used for drone operations and was the main center for air operations.
In addition to its military functions, Bagram Airfield also housed a detention facility. This prison was the subject of controversy due to allegations of prisoner abuse.
In July 2021, American forces withdrew from the airfield as part of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, effectively ending U.S. operations at the base. After the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces, the base was taken over by the Taliban.