VOICED : From the US Rockies

The video discusses the training of nearly 300 soldiers from Fort Riley, Kansas, at Fort Carson, Colorado, to prepare for deployment to Afghanistan in 2013. The training simulates high-altitude battlefield conditions, which are crucial for improving pilot skills and confidence. Despite the planned handover of military control to the Afghan government in 2014, the U.S. will maintain a presence, making such training essential.

Why is the training environment at Fort Carson Army base in Colorado considered suitable for soldiers heading to Afghanistan?

• It has more advanced technology.

• It is closer to Afghanistan.

• It is located at sea level.

• It has a similar climate and terrain.

What is one of the main challenges of flying at high altitudes in Colorado?

• Limited power and weight capacity.

• Higher risk of bird strikes.

• More frequent engine failures.

• Increased fuel consumption.

How does high-altitude training in Colorado benefit pilots?

• It reduces the need for navigation systems.

• It improves their ability to fly in mountainous regions.

• It allows them to carry more weight.

• It shortens the flight time to Afghanistan.

What is expected to happen in 2014 regarding military control in Afghanistan?

• The U.S. will increase its troop presence.

• The U.S. will withdraw all its forces.

• Coalition forces will hand over control to the Afghan government.

• The Afghan government will request more foreign troops.

Why are training courses like the one in Colorado still critical for U.S. forces?

• They allow for faster deployment.

• They maintain confidence and effectiveness in operations.

• They ensure soldiers are prepared for any terrain.

• They help reduce military spending.