Dyess AFB

Dyess Air Force Base is one of the most important military installations in West Texas and plays a major role in the identity, economy, and culture of the Abilene area. Located just minutes from downtown Abilene, Dyess is home to both the legendary B-1B Lancer bomber and the C-130J Super Hercules, making it one of the only bases in the nation that combines both bomber and airlift missions at a single installation. The base serves as a major hub for global military operations, pilot training, and national defense, while also bringing a strong sense of community, patriotism, and stability to the region. What makes Dyess especially unique is the close relationship between the base and the Big Country community—military families are deeply supported here, and Abilene is widely known for being exceptionally military-friendly. Residents enjoy a lower cost of living, wide open Texas landscapes, excellent schools, and a welcoming small-city atmosphere while still benefiting from the economic growth and diversity the base provides. With future expansion plans tied to next-generation military aircraft and continued investment in infrastructure, Dyess AFB remains a powerful part of the area’s future and a major reason many families choose to call Abilene home.