Portugal relocates largest military range in Europe to Alter do Chão for new Lisbon airport

Portuguese Defence Minister Nuno Melo announced on March 11, 2026, the relocation of the Campo de Tiro de Alcochete air firing range to the town of Alter do Chão. This decision is directly linked to the planned construction of a new airport for Lisbon, which is to be built on the current military grounds in Alcochete. Campo de Tiro de Alcochete will be completely vacated for the civilian investment, which necessitated finding a new location for the defence infrastructure. Minister Nuno Melo emphasized that this process is crucial for the development of the country's transport infrastructure while maintaining national defence capabilities. Campo de Tiro de Alcochete was established in 1912 and for over a century served as a key training centre for the Portuguese air force and navy. Discussions about building a new airport at this location have been ongoing for decades, making it one of the most long-term infrastructure projects in the country's history. The relocation of the range to Alter do Chão in the Portalegre district means shifting a strategic military base deeper into the Alentejo region.

The Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CEMFA) assured that the change of location will not negatively affect the efficiency of operations or the safety of residents near the new range site. Military officials described the move as operationally neutral, pointing to suitable terrain conditions at the new location. „A transferência do Campo de Tiro de Alcochete para Alter do Chão foi anunciada com o apoio da Câmara Municipal” (The transfer of the Campo de Tiro de Alcochete to Alter do Chão was announced with the support of the Municipal Council) — Nuno Melo via SIC Notícias Army representatives sought to reassure the public in Alter do Chão, declaring full transparency in the process of installing the new base. „Mudança do campo de tiro para Alter do Chão será mais ou menos irrelevante para a Força Aérea” (The change of the firing range to Alter do Chão will be more or less irrelevant for the Air Force) — Portuguese Air Force via TSF Rádio Notícias

The local municipality in Alter do Chão officially expressed support for taking over the military infrastructure, seeing it as an opportunity for the development of the commune. Câmara Municipal declared its readiness to cooperate with the government to ensure a smooth transfer. The project is expected to bring new jobs and investments in local infrastructure accompanying the base to the region. Despite the authorities' support, the military continues its information campaign aimed at residents to explain the nature of future air operations in the area. Process of relocating the firing range: March 11, 2026 — Official announcement; March 11, 2026 — Air Force position; March 11, 2026 — Municipal declaration