基地(きち)

きち
noun
base (military, etc.)
military
1. base; headquarters
A permanent installation from which operations are conducted, especially military bases, but also used for research stations and other operational centers.
米軍(べいぐん)基地(きち)が沖縄(おきなわ)にある。
There is a U.S. military base in Okinawa.
To conduct research at an Antarctic observation base.
The base issue has become a major debate in Japan.

Usage: Most commonly refers to military installations, but also used for research stations and operational headquarters.

Compounds

Cultural note: U.S. military bases in Japan, especially in 沖縄(おきなわ), are a significant political issue.