Mountains provide excellent terrain-masking and radar and visual acquisition avoidance. Air movement is the principal mode for rapidly displacing forces, equipment, and supplies in mountainous areas where ground transportation is hindered from natural or man-made obstacles. Terrain can limit maneuverability and engagement areas. In steep mountainous terrain, the look-down angle to a target can be so great that the target becomes almost impossible to engage. High altitudes restrict aircraft lift capabilities and armament loads.
Weather conditions change rapidly.
Snowstorms, strong winds, and turbulence occur in passes and over jagged terrain. Aircraft icing is common in high altitudes and may occur suddenly. Icing impedes lift in helicopters and can prevent them from flying. However, these same icing conditions can still prevent attack helicopters from firing their weapons. Jungle operations are characterized by dense vegetation, high temperature, high humidity, and heavy rain.