RNAS Culdrose opened in 1947 with a life expectancy of some ten years.
Today the Air Station is one of Europe's busiest helicopter bases.
RNAS Culdrose covers over 1500 acres (including the satellite airfield Predannack on the Lizard Peninsula) and employs in excess of 3000 service personnel, contractors and civil servants. It is the largest single site employer in Cornwall.
RNAS Culdrose's principal role is to support the Anti-Submarine Warfare and Airborne Surveillance and Control helicopter squadrons.
It also provides 365 days-a-year, 24 hours a day military and civilian search and rescue cover for the whole South West of England and 200 miles out into the Western Approaches.