The US Air Force is opening up more than 3,000 acres (1,214 hectares) across five active bases for private companies to build massive artificial intelligence (AI) data centers — a move to ramp up America’s tech power as competition with China heats up.
The plan follows President Donald Trump’s Executive Order 14318, signed in July, which fast-tracks AI infrastructure by cutting red tape and allowing private firms to build on federal land under long-term lease agreements.
It will support a broader US strategy to secure leadership in AI, data computing, and chip manufacturing — areas where Beijing has rapidly expanded under its “Made in China 2025” initiative.
Five Bases Selected
In its October solicitation, the US Air Force identified “underused” parcels across five bases for commercial lease and development under the AI data facilities project.
Edwards Air Force Base (AFB) in California makes up the bulk of the land (2,115 acres/856 hectares), picked for its space and existing power infrastructure, according to sources.
The other bases include Davis-Monthan AFB in Arizona (300 acres/121 hectares), Arnold AFB in Tennessee (274 acres/111 hectares), Robins AFB in Georgia (219 acres/89 hectares), and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst in New Jersey (193 acres/78 hectares).
Big Money, Heavy Rules
To qualify, participating companies have to invest at least $500 million and generate over 100 megawatts of new power for AI computing.
They also need a proven track record of building large data centers, must pay a $250,000 nonrefundable fee, and offer fair-market terms. Leases can run up to 50 years if they support national defense priorities.
Additional requirements state that developers must ensure nearby utilities are not overburdened and submit comprehensive plans for sustainability, power reliability, and emergency backup systems.
Once operational, the US Air Force may choose to purchase AI or energy services from these facilities, but is not obligated to do so.
Proposals are due this November, and the air force expects to pick developers by January 2026.
