Date of Award

3-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Engineering Management

Department

Department of Systems Engineering and Management

First Advisor

Daniel J. Weeks, PhD

Abstract

Military operations to remote Arctic regions require large-span temporary shelters to house tactical aircraft and provide heated maintained spaces. However, the current System-50 Large Area Maintenance Shelters used by the United States Air Force and Department of Defense are inadequate for Arctic deployments. These shelters lack durability against extreme subzero temperatures, heavy snow accumulation, and high wind speeds. They also fail to address critical Arctic-specific design challenges including permafrost protection, foundation disruption caused by frost heaves, and efficient heating as a result of their inadequate thermal resistance properties. This research analyzed 20 years of climatological data from 8,399 weather observation stations across all eight Arctic nations. Maximum ground snow loads were derived using power-law equations and recorded snow depth observations. Scenario-based analyses were conducted to simulate likely operational environments for Tension Fabric Shelters in Arctic regions, with roof snow loads calculated in accordance with ASCE 7-16 standards. Guided by a 98% design interval of recorded observations, the study determined recommended minimum design standards for Arctic-capable Tension Fabric Shelters as a temperature resistance of -50°F, a roof snow load capacity of 45 pounds per square foot, and sustained wind resistance of 60 miles per hour, with a specific hangar door operational rating of 50 miles per hour. These enhanced design standards aim to improve structural durability, reduce the risk of failure, and ensure mission readiness for future military operations in extreme Arctic climates.

AFIT Designator

AFIT-ENV-MS-25-M-090

Comments

An embargo was observed for this posting.

Approved for Public Release, Distribution Unlimited. PA case number 88ABW-2025-0371

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