A major military restructuring is coming to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, with the U.S. Air Force planning to inactivate the 87th Air Base Wing and transfer its operations to the 305th Air Mobility Wing by summer 2027.

Under the planned consolidation, the 87th Air Base Wing’s personnel, infrastructure and mission responsibilities will shift to the 305th Air Mobility Wing as part of an effort to streamline command and control and improve operational readiness at the sprawling New Jersey military installation.

The 305th Air Mobility Wing currently carries out strategic airlift and aerial refueling missions around the world. Under the new structure, it will also take over responsibility as the host wing for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst while continuing its existing missions.

The Air Force says the restructuring is intended to make more efficient use of personnel and resources and is expected to have limited impact on the base’s day-to-day operations.

The 305th will continue providing installation support for the numerous military units and joint mission partners operating at the base.

Some positions are expected to be eliminated as part of the consolidation, although Air Force officials say the overall reduction in personnel is expected to be minimal.

The 87th Air Base Wing currently provides installation management for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, the nation’s only tri-service joint base, and consists of more than 3,100 officers, enlisted service members and civilian employees.

Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst spans portions of Burlington and Ocean counties and combines Air Force, Army and Navy operations at one installation.