D. Amos et al., Physiological and cognitive performance of soldiers conducting routine patrol and reconnaissance operations in the tropics, MILIT MED, 165(12), 2000, pp. 961-966
The physiological and cognitive performance of acclimatized soldiers undert
aking routine patrol and reconnaissance activities in the tropics was inves
tigated. Data were obtained during a patrol and a reconnaissance exercise f
ollowed by a short assault. Ambient conditions were characterized by temper
atures of 30 to 33 degreesC, low humidity (52-59%), and moderate to high so
lar radiation. Maximum metabolic rates during patrol were high, although th
e equipment carried was modest and the terrain was not severe. Rectal tempe
ratures peaked at 38.2 and 38,4 degreesC for patrol and assault activities,
respectively; peak heart rates were 160 beats min(-1) for each activity. S
weat rates of approximately 9 and 14 g kg(-1) body weight h(-1) were record
ed for patrol and assault activities, respectively. The soldiers maintained
adequate hydration levels and displayed no evidence of deterioration in co
gnitive performance. The data show that routine operational activities in t
ropical conditions induced physiological strain in acclimatized soldiers. H
owever, this strain was not maintained at hazardous levels for lengthy peri
ods.