Orange-Caritat Air Base, also known as Base aérienne 115 Orange-Caritat, is a French Air Force base located in Orange, in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of southern France. Established in 1925, the base has a long and storied history, playing a crucial role in French military operations both during peacetime and in times of conflict.

The air base is named after General Francois X. Caritat, a French World War I flying ace who was killed in combat in 1917. It is also known as "BA 115" for short, a designation that indicates its status as an active military air base within the French Air Force.

Orange-Caritat Air Base is home to a number of different French Air Force units, including the Escadron de Chasse 2/5 Île-de-France, which operates the Mirage 2000D fighter aircraft. The base also serves as a training center for pilots and ground crew, providing instruction and resources for new recruits to hone their skills in aerial combat and flight operations.

In addition to its military activities, Orange-Caritat Air Base also serves as a hub for civilian aviation, handling commercial and private flights in and out of the region. The base has a modern terminal building with all the amenities one would expect from a major airport, including check-in counters, baggage claim, and security screening facilities.

One of the key features of Orange-Caritat Air Base is its strategic location in southern France, which makes it an important staging area for military operations in the region and beyond. The base's proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the European continent allows it to respond quickly to potential threats and provide support to allied forces in times of need.

Over the years, Orange-Caritat Air Base has been involved in a number of military operations, including the NATO intervention in Kosovo in the late 1990s and the international campaign against ISIS in Syria and Iraq. The base has also played a role in humanitarian missions, providing aid and support to countries in crisis around the world.

Despite its long and distinguished history, Orange-Caritat Air Base has faced challenges in recent years, including budget cuts and reductions in personnel. In response, the French Air Force has worked to modernize the base's infrastructure and equipment, ensuring that it remains a cutting-edge facility for military and civilian aviation.

In conclusion, Orange-Caritat Air Base is an important military and civilian airport in southern France, serving as a key hub for French Air Force operations and providing essential services for commercial and private flights. With its strategic location, modern facilities, and commitment to excellence, the base continues to play a vital role in safeguarding the nation's security and upholding its proud military traditions.