Technical Analysis and Characterization of Southern Cayo, Belize for Tropical Testing and Evaluation of Foliage Penetration Remote Sensing Systems

Abstract : The Department of Defense (DoD) has long recognized the significant challenges it faces in being capable of conducting military operations in wet tropical climates. First, successful operations require troops trained for sustained operations in the heat, humidity, and variable environmental challenges presented by wet tropical landscapes. This training must prepare troops understand the differences in conducting operations in jungles compared to temperate settings, the geographic domain for most US military training lands. The second critical point is that equipment must operate to its fullest capacity for sustained periods in these harshest of conditions. Finally, the US military must recognize that conflicts and operational requirements will continue to occur in these geographic areas; the evidence is overwhelming to confirm this fact. Since 1960 more than 75 percent of regional conflicts have had their roots in countries located within the tropics. To meet the responsibility to conduct full spectrum operations throughout the contemporary operating environment, military equipment must be tested in harsh tropical conditions and servicemen and women must be trained within this demanding environmental setting. Many experienced military leaders have stated that training and conducting operations in the challenges of the tropics is the very best preparation for full spectrum operations. Leading units in the intensely demanding setting of the tropics prepares units for almost any challenge.