The Base Museum of Airbase 118 Mont-de-Marsan is a specialized museum located in Mont-de-Marsan, in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of southwestern France. The museum is located at Base Aérienne 118 (Airbase 118), which is a French Air Force base that has been in operation for many years. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of the French Air Force and its operations, with a particular focus on aviation history, military aircraft, and the role of Airbase 118 in both national defense and international operations.

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Base Museum, Base Aérienne 118 Mont de Marsan / Espace Patrimonial Rozanoff

1046 Avenue du Colonel Kw Rozanoff

40000 Mont-de-Marsan

France

https://epr118.fr

espace.rozanoff@gmail.com

Wednesday – Thursday 09:30 – 12:00 / 13:30 – 16:30

Visits by prior permission. You must communicate espace.rozanoff@gmail.com for each visitor at least 48 hours (Francaice) 72 hours (foreigner) before the visit:

• name
• first name
• date of birth
• birthplace
• nr of identity paper
• nationality

Free admission

Aircraft collection

348/33-NL 7 572/4-BR 604/118-CF 231/112-QK -/330-DA 322 104/115-KG 153/12-YY 28879/9-AU A39 A99 A140/7-HI 364/30-OF 14

Dassault Mirage 3R Dassault Mirage 4 (cockpit) Dassault Mirage 5E Dassault Mirage F1CR Dassault Mirage F1CT Dassault Mirage F1 (cockpit) Dassault Mirage 2000 Dassault Mirage 2000C Dassault Super Mystere B2 Republic F-84F Thunderstreak SEPECAT Jaguar A (cockpit) SEPECAT Jaguar A (cockpit) SEPECAT Jaguar A Sud Aviation Vautour 2N Yakovlev Yak-9 (replica)

 Key Highlights of the Base Museum of Airbase 118 Mont-de-Marsan:

1. History of Airbase 118:
   • Airbase 118 Mont-de-Marsan has played a significant role in the history of the French Air Force and was used extensively throughout the 20th and 21st centuries.
   • The base has been involved in several key military operations, both domestically and internationally, including NATO missions and peacekeeping operations.
   • The museum details the evolution of the base, starting from its inception during the early years of the Cold War to its modern-day operations, reflecting its strategic importance.
2. Aircraft Exhibits:
   • One of the main features of the Base Museum, Base Aérienne 118 Mont de Marsan is its collection of military aircraft. The museum showcases several historic planes, including:
     • Mirage 2000, a versatile French fighter aircraft used by the French Air Force in various roles.
     • Dassault Mirage III, an iconic jet used by the French and other air forces.
     • Super Étendard, a carrier-based jet used by the French Navy.
     • Transports and helicopters that were part of the fleet at the base.
   • These aircraft are displayed both indoors and outdoors, and visitors can get a close-up view of their technical specifications and operational history.
3. Military Aviation History:
   • The Base Museum, Base Aérienne 118 Mont de Marsan focuses not only on the military aircraft used at the base but also on the broader history of aviation. It covers key events in aviation history, technological advancements, and the evolution of the French Air Force, from the early days of World War I aviation to the modern era.
   • Exhibits include model aircraft, photographs, and uniforms worn by French Air Force personnel over the decades, as well as artifacts related to major aviation milestones.
4. Personal Stories and Contributions:
   • A key part of the museum is dedicated to the airmen and women who have served at Airbase 118 Mont-de-Marsan. The museum highlights their stories and contributions to both national and international military missions, offering a human perspective on the base’s operations.
   • The museum also highlights the importance of training and tactics used by the French Air Force, detailing the pilot training programs and the various air combat techniques developed and refined at the base.
5. Interactive Exhibits:
   • The Base Museum, Base Aérienne 118 Mont de Marsan includes interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations, making it more engaging for visitors. These presentations showcase the different aspects of air operations, from flight simulations to detailed explanations of air combat and military aviation strategies.
   • There are also educational programs and materials aimed at younger visitors to introduce them to the fascinating world of aviation and military history.
6. Aircraft Preservation and Restoration:
   • The museum has a strong focus on preserving the history of the aircraft and equipment used at the base. There are ongoing efforts to restore and maintain some of the older aircraft on display, providing visitors with the chance to see these historic machines in their original form.
   • Some of the exhibits show the painstaking restoration process, explaining how vintage military aircraft are brought back to life.
7. Special Events and Temporary Exhibitions:
   • The Base Museum, Base Aérienne 118 Mont de Marsan occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions focusing on specific aspects of aviation, military history, or the role of the French Air Force in various conflicts.
   • It is also a venue for special events, including air shows and commemorative ceremonies honoring significant milestones or anniversaries related to military aviation.
8. Educational Programs:
   • The Base Museum offers educational programs tailored to school groups and individuals with an interest in military history and aviation. These programs often include guided tours, workshops, and themed activities related to aviation and the role of the French Air Force.
   • There is a focus on teaching younger generations about the history of flight and the sacrifices made by airmen and women during wartime.

Practical Information:

• Location: The museum is located at Base Aérienne 118 Mont-de-Marsan, in the town of Mont-de-Marsan, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. The base itself is a military installation, and access to the museum may require prior arrangement or specific visiting hours.
• Accessibility: The museum is generally accessible to all visitors, though the base itself may have specific security requirements. It is advisable to contact the museum ahead of time to confirm any security or access-related information.

Conclusion:

The Base Museum of Airbase 118 Mont-de-Marsan is an important site for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs, offering a unique look at the French Air Force’s history and the evolution of military aviation. With its impressive collection of aircraft, interactive exhibits, and focus on both the technological and human aspects of air warfare, the museum provides an engaging and educational experience for all visitors.