Nevatim Airbase (Air Force Base 28)

Nevatim Airbase, designated Air Force Base 28, is located in the northern Negev desert, 15 km east-southeast of Beersheba. Initially established as a rough runway in 1947 for the Sherut Avir, the modern facility was constructed between 1980 and 1983. It was funded by the Israeli and United States governments as part of the Israeli Air Force redeployment from the Sinai Peninsula following the Camp David Accords. In 2008, the base integrated the transport and tanker units previously stationed at Lod Airbase.

The Israeli Air Force operates the base as a hub for stealth fighters, transport, aerial refueling, and electronic reconnaissance. It hosts three squadrons of F-35I Adir aircraft: 140 Squadron, 116 Squadron, and 117 Squadron. Transport operations are conducted by 103 Squadron with C-130J-30 aircraft and 131 Squadron with C-130H aircraft. Aerial refueling is managed by 120 Squadron, which operates Boeing 707 tankers. 122 Squadron operates Gulfstream jets configured for electronic intelligence and airborne early warning. The base also houses the Wing of Zion, the aircraft for the President and Prime Minister of Israel, maintained by 120 Squadron. Specialized units stationed there include Unit 5700, a forward airfield tactical unit, and the Defender of the Negev company.

Infrastructure includes three runways and specialized hangars for the various aircraft types. The northern area is dedicated to F-35I operations and includes a flight simulator for pilot training. The southern area hosts transport and reconnaissance facilities. A historical aircraft display is located near the eastern entrance.