Environmental effects on aviation performance
Aircraft in the deserts are essentially more effective, but every terrain comes with its pros and cons. Although the aircraft are able to use their weapons and detection systems to the maximum range, the enemies can also.
The desert is a dry, open space. The dry air helps with keeping corrosion down and the open area allows for a straight route to attack without terrain in the way. The Although there's less corrosion from humidity, there is more maintenace issues and supply demand from all of the sand and dirt. The sandstorms that are a constant in the dessert keep the technicians on their toes.
The heat also brings its own issues to the technicians and the pilots. With the extreme temperatures, there's a decrease in lift capabilities. The heat also makes it extremely uncomfortable to perform routine work on the aircraft during the day.
As noted above, the detection ability is greater, but the same works for the enemies. If the sun reflects off of the canopy, it creates an easy way to be spotted.
Ways to work around these hinders is the aircraft has proper coverage when stored like under an open hangar, and special covers for the intakes, exhaust and cockpit. The enclosed hangars will provide air-conditioning so the technicians can work in a comfortable environment. To help keep enemy detection down, some aircraft are being crafted with Low Observable to deflect radar detection from the enemies.
Pike, J. (n.d.). FM 1–100 Chptr 3 Environmental Effects on Operations. Global Security. https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/policy/army/fm/1-100/ch3.htm
I agree that there are pros and cons of a arid desert environment. Since deserts have so little moisture, sand is more prevalent and can be consumed by engine and cabin air filters. The Maintenance benefits of the lack of humidity are generally equalized or even outweighed by the maintenance costs of overheating equipment and particle contamination. This blog was very relatable, nice job.
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