UTTR extension going forward
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Friday, November 30, 2007 | 
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No Comments [ Add Comment ]By Mitch Shaw
Standard-Examiner Davis Bureau
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By Mitch Shaw
Standard-Examiner Davis Bureau
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By Mitch Shaw
Standard-Examiner Davis Bureau
HILL AIR FORCE BASE -- Plans to expand military operations at the Utah Test and Training Range are finally getting off the ground, the Air Force announced Thursday.
The proposed expansion includes the airspace in Nevada directly west of the UTTR. The airspace would occupy approximately 30-by-60 nautical miles and extend from 14,000 to 18,000 feet mean sea level.
The expansion, dubbed the White Elk Military Operating Area, would be used by pilots of the active duty 388th Fighter Wing and Reserve 419th Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base.
"Available airspace is a critical element for airmen preparing for deployments to Southwest Asia and future worldwide operations," said Col. Scott Dennis, 388th FW commander, in a news release.
"The White Elk MOA would allow our pilots to continue training at a realistic altitude over realistic terrain."
The range is the site for a variety of training and testing missions for the United States Air Force, Army and Marine Corps.
It is currently the largest block of supersonic authorized restricted airspace in the U.S.
Local officials said the range's size and capabilities make it a national asset.
"There is nothing like the UTTR anywhere in the country," said Rep. Rob Bishop, R-Utah.
"It's a remarkable asset that we need to ensure is viable for a long time. As technology improves, we often need more airspace to accommodate it. So it makes sense to try and expand the airspace and give our military folks a little more room."
Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, said the possible expansion will not only be beneficial to Hill, but is also necessary for the nation's air defense.
"This is great news for Hill Air Force Base," Hatch said. "The expansion of the UTTR is an indication of the important work that is performed there. Where many other ranges have been restricted in their operations over the years, the UTTR continues to expand its capabilities that will help the Air Force maintain global air dominance."
Before making any final decisions on the White Elk expansion, the Air Force is required to conduct an Environmental Impact Statement to collect data and analyze potential effects of the proposal on the environment.
As part of this process, the Air Force plans a series meetings in Ely, Elko and Wendover in mid-December to hear input from the public on the proposal.
Nevada officials have expressed concern about the expansion in the past, but didn't immediately respond to requests for comment.
Hill officials said they look forward to meeting with Nevada officials and the public.
"Over the course of this year, we've held discussions with various community leaders and the Federal Aviation Administration about the need for a new MOA," said Col. James Reed, 388th Range Squadron Commander, in a news release. "During December, we again want to hear the public's input prior to developing a draft EIS. This input is important to us as we work through the process."
The draft EIS is expected to be complete in June 2008 and will be posted online for a 45-day comment period.
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