MOD St Athan, also known as St Athan Airport, is a military airport located in the village of St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan, Wales. The airport is owned and operated by the Ministry of Defence (MOD) and serves as a major hub for aircraft maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities for the British Armed Forces. It is also home to various units and squadrons of the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Royal Navy.

St Athan Airport has a rich history dating back to its origins as an airfield for the Royal Air Force during World War II. The airport played a crucial role in the war effort, serving as a base for training pilots and conducting aircraft maintenance and repair. After the war, the airport continued to be used by the RAF for various purposes, including aircraft maintenance and storage.

In the 1990s, St Athan Airport underwent a major transformation with the establishment of the Defence Aviation Repair Agency (DARA) on the site. DARA was a government-owned company responsible for providing MRO services to the British Armed Forces, as well as to international customers. The agency operated a wide range of facilities at the airport, including hangars, workshops, and testing facilities.

In 2007, DARA was merged with other MOD agencies to form the Defence Support Group (DSG), which continued to provide MRO services at St Athan Airport. The airport became a key component of the UK's defence infrastructure, supporting the maintenance and repair of a variety of military aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters.

In recent years, St Athan Airport has seen further development and expansion as part of the MOD's plans to consolidate and modernize its MRO capabilities. The airport now houses the Defence College of Technical Training (DCTT), which provides training for military engineers and technicians. It also serves as a base for the RAF No. 4 School of Technical Training, which offers courses in aircraft engineering and maintenance.

St Athan Airport is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to support its MRO activities, including modern hangars, workshops, and testing facilities. The airport's strategic location in the Vale of Glamorgan provides easy access to major air and sea ports, making it an ideal location for servicing military aircraft.

In addition to its role in aircraft maintenance and training, St Athan Airport also serves as a base for various units and squadrons of the RAF and the Royal Navy. The airport is home to the RAF No. 230 Squadron, which operates search and rescue helicopters, as well as the Royal Navy's 849 Naval Air Squadron, which provides helicopter support for maritime operations.

Overall, St Athan Airport plays a vital role in supporting the operational readiness of the British Armed Forces and maintaining the effectiveness of its air power. With its strategic location, modern facilities, and skilled workforce, the airport continues to be a crucial asset for the UK's defence infrastructure.