Autumn 1986 Nellis and Tonopah Penetration Exercises
Precipitation fell across the desert flats of southern Nevada in October 1986. Dried alkali playas turned into thick mud. Temperatures dropped from daytime highs near ninety degrees Fahrenheit to sub-freezing conditions within three hours of sunset. High winds drove sleet and fine crystalline dust through unsealed seams of ground equipment.
Hydraulic fluids thickened into sludge inside exposed ground support carts.
Gears seized on taxiways before aircraft engines could turn over.
Tactical deep-penetration training flights staged across the Nellis Air Force Range and Tonop