Strategic Air Depots were given separate station numbers to avoid confusion with the main airfield operation; the 2nd Strategic Air Depot, originally at Little Staughton, moved to Alconbury in March 1944 as that airfield, well served by road and rail, was developed; built to the east of the main Alconbury perimeter taxiway it was self-contained with its own tracks, hardstanding and workshops; such depots existed to maintain, supply and salvage aircraft of Air Force Combat Units; 3000 personnel assigned. Alconbury ceased operations during 1990s and Abbots Ripton buildings and site currently house commercial industries.