When discussing military might, "power" is not just about the size of the guns, as it’s about how quickly a nation can respond to a crisis anywhere on the planet. By almost every metric, Fort Bragg, which is briefly known as Fort Liberty in North Carolina, is the undisputed heavyweight champion of U.S. power projection. Let us learn more about why it's called the powerful military base in the United States.
Why is Fort Bragg Considered the Premier Power Platform?
Fort Bragg isn't just a base; it’s a massive, self-sustaining city of warriors. It is the most populous military installation in the United States, housing over 52,000 active-duty soldiers.
However, its true strength lies in its "tenant units." It serves as the home of the XVIII Airborne Corps and the 82nd Airborne Division, known for their ability to deploy thousands of troops anywhere in the world within 18 hours.
The base is also the nerve centre for "unconventional warfare," hosting the U.S. Army Special Operations Command. This means the most elite units, including the Green Berets and the 75th Ranger Regiment, plan their global missions right here in North Carolina.
Source:U.S. Army and The Naming Commission 2022 Report
How Do Other US Bases Rank by Category?
While Fort Bragg holds the title for overall ready force and population, the U.S. military relies on a network of specialised bases that lead in other domains of power:
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Largest Naval Power: Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia is the largest naval base in the world. It supports the massive aircraft carrier fleets that dominate the seas.
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Largest Armoured Force: Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood) in Texas is the primary hub for the Army’s heavy tanks and mechanised units.
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Largest Land Area: White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico covers over 955,000 acres, providing the vast space needed for testing long-range missiles and space technology.
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Top Combat Training: The Barry M. Goldwater Air Force Range in Arizona offers the most realistic aerial combat training environment for fighter pilots.
Why Did the Name Change from Fort Liberty Back to Fort Bragg?
The base has seen significant administrative shifts recently. Originally named after Confederate General Braxton Bragg, it was renamed Fort Liberty in June 2023 as part of a national effort to remove Confederate names from Department of Defense properties.
However, in February 2025, a new directive from Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth ordered the name be changed back to Fort Bragg.
This time, the name honours a different man: World War II paratrooper Roland L. Bragg. This change was intended to maintain the historic "Bragg" identity while ensuring the namesake reflected values of service and bravery during the Second World War.
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