Araxos Air Base

In the 1940s

Aerial picture from January 1945 - The viewing direction is approximately south-southwest. (Source: US DoD)

Enlargement: Eastern part - The whole image was classified as "Restricted". (Source: US DoD)

Enlargement: Western part (Source: US DoD)

Enlargement: Planes (Source: US DoD)

Approach (May 1945) - The map was initially classified as "Confidential" and was then downgraded to "Restricted". (Source: US DoD)

Airfield map (April 1945) - There are two runways - 082/262: length 1189 m, width 46 m (3900 feet x 150 feet), 18/36: length 1189 m, width 46 m (3900 feet x 150 feet). Remarkable is the Decauville Railway on the western side (Source: US DoD)

In the 1950s

Approach (January 1952) (Source: US DoD)

Airport map (January 1952) - There are two runways - 09/27: length 1189 m, width 50 m (3900 feet x 164 feet), 18/36: length 1219 m, width 50 m (4000 feet x 164 feet). (Source: US DoD)

In the 1960s

Satellite image from 26 July 1965 - The image is from a US reconnaissance satellite and was previously subject to high levels of secrecy. (Source: U.S. Geological Survey)

Index to the objects shown on the maps

Radio beacons:

• Araxos NDB "SWX"

Places:

• Ano Manolas
• Bania Kounoupeli
• Cape Araxos / Ακρωτήριον Άραξος / Άκρα Πάππα
• Draganon
• Franga
• Gerbesi, Gulf of Patras / Πατραϊκός Κόλπος
• Ionian Sea / Ιόνιο Πέλαγος
• Kangadhi, Kato Achaia / Κάτω Αχαΐα, Krioneri
• Lakkopetra, Lappa Limnokhori, Lousika
• Mazaraki, Metokhi
• Nea Manolas, Niforeika / Νιφορέικα / Νιφοραίικα (shown as Aniforeika)
• Paralimni
• Riotos

Source for all maps, if not marked otherwise: US Department of Defense (US DoD)

Attention: Taking pictures and making notes at Greek military airfields is prohibited. Those who are caught are subject to unpleasant procedures and end up in prison. According to reports, the local population seems to play a role in this, as they report strangers.

Whether such rigid methods are considered appropriate in today's world of cyber threat and in Europe is up to each individual to decide. But it seems to be reality and one should act accordingly.