Nevada Test and Training Range
Overview
The Nevada Test and Training Range (NTTR) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to the United States Air Force Warfare Center of Air Combat Command. As a measure of its vast area, the range is the largest contiguous air and ground space available for peacetime military operations in the free world. It is located in the southern part of Nevada, and its military operations area extends into California and Utah.
History
The NTTR's history dates back to World War II, when the Las Vegas Bombing and Gunnery Range was established in 1941. The range was renamed the Nevada Test and Training Range in 2001 to reflect its evolving mission of testing and training in a joint service, multi-platform environment.
Geographical Features
The NTTR covers approximately 4,531 square miles of air space and 2.9 million acres of land. The range's diverse geography includes high desert, dry lake beds, and mountainous terrain, which provides a realistic and challenging environment for aircrew training and weapons testing.
Operations
The NTTR supports a variety of Department of Defense (DoD) initiatives, including Red Flag exercises, Weapons School missions, and various other tactical training programs. The range also supports non-military activities, such as NASA and commercial space launches.
Facilities
The NTTR is home to several key facilities, including the Tolicha Peak Electronic Combat Range, the Tonopah Test Range, and the Nellis Air Force Base. These facilities support the range's mission by providing infrastructure for testing, training, and evaluation activities.
Environmental Stewardship
The NTTR is committed to environmental stewardship and works closely with federal and state agencies to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. The range's Environmental Management System (EMS) focuses on minimizing impacts on the environment and preserving natural and cultural resources.