Reduced FM radio range caused by extreme heat and poor grounding of antennas because the surface soil lacks moisture. Radio dead spaces due to the presence of RF absorbable minerals on or near the surface. In the desert environment, dust and sand can be as deadly to equipment as enemy fire. Equipment is vulnerable to the extreme heat and cold temperatures of the desert. Moving metal parts eroded by sand.
Batteries have a shorter life span.
Seals break down. Deterioration of clothing and equipment. Extreme vibrations of equipment on rocky plateaus cause equipment failure and demand preventive maintenance checks and services be performed much more than required by operator maintenance manuals. Fuel filters and air filters require more frequent maintenance. The area of cold weather operations is generally defined as the areas lying north and south of the temperate zone.