The site now occupied by RAF Leeming was originally developed during the late 1930s. Leeming has been used as a heavy bomber base, night-fighter base and a Flying Training School, before it underwent major redevelopment in the mid-80s.

Currently, Hawk T1 aircraft (No 100 Sqn) and Tutor aircraft (Northumbrian University Air Squadron) operate from Leeming. In addition, 90 Signals Unit, 2 Force Protection Wing, No 34 Squadron RAF Regiment, No 609 (West Riding) RAF Auxiliary Squadron and the Joint Forward Air Controller Training and Standards Unit (JFACTSU) are resident on the Station.

RAF Leeming also accommodates No 10 Royal Engineers Field Squadron, the only UK RAF Station to have a full time Army Squadron based within its perimeters.