There has been a French military base here since independence, the only lapses being in 1975 and again for a couple of years beginning in 1978. After Operation Epervier started, it has been extensively used by French Air Force and Army during various operations. In 2016, Epervier is composed of about 1500 men, a dozen Mirage 2000 fighters, Puma and Caiman helicopters, and transport and tankers aircraft (C-160 Transall, Boeing KC-135, C-130 Hercules) Operations are undertaken over neighbouring Mali and Niger for Operation Barkhane, combating militant groups throughout the southern Sahara. The entire area is under the authority of COMELEF, typically a French Air Force colonel. The importance of the operation does mean that the runway is always open, and that excellent primary radar coverage is provided, as well as other facilities (military hospital, rescue and fire services, assistance with ATC)