About this Unit
The USA Arctic Test Board was established in the late 1940s by the United States Army to evaluate military equipment, clothing, and operational tactics in extreme cold weather environments. Based primarily in Alaska, the unit conducted rigorous field trials to ensure that soldiers and materiel could withstand arctic conditions, thereby enhancing the Army’s readiness for potential conflicts in polar regions during the early Cold War. The Board played a crucial role in developing cold-weather gear and mobility solutions, such as improved snow vehicles and insulated uniforms. Its work contributed significantly to the U.S. military’s understanding of arctic warfare and influenced doctrine and equipment for decades to follow.
Historical Facts
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Formation and Purpose: The USA Arctic Test Board was established after World War II to test military equipment, clothing, and tactics in extreme Arctic and sub-Arctic environments, ensuring U.S. forces could operate effectively in cold weather conditions.
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Location: The board was primarily based at Big Delta (later Fort Greely), Alaska, a strategic location chosen for its harsh climate and proximity to the Arctic Circle.
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Early Operations: The Arctic Test Board began its operations in the late 1940s, conducting rigorous field trials of vehicles, weapons, and survival gear in temperatures as low as –60°F (–51°C).
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Testing Innovations: The board tested everything from snowmobiles and tracked vehicles to insulated boots and rations, playing a key role in developing the famous “Mickey Mouse” boots and layered cold-weather clothing systems.
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Impact on the Korean War: Lessons and equipment developed by the Arctic Test Board were quickly applied during the Korean War, saving countless lives during the harsh winter campaigns.
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Animal Experiments: The board conducted experiments using sled dogs, reindeer, and even horses to determine the best methods of Arctic transportation and logistics.
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International Cooperation: The board frequently collaborated with Canadian and British military units, sharing findings and participating in joint exercises such as “Exercise Snow Chute.”
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Unusual Experiments: In the 1950s, the board tested the use of heated tents, portable nuclear power units, and even inflatable shelters to improve soldier survivability.
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Legacy: The work of the Arctic Test Board laid the foundation for the U.S. Army’s current cold-weather doctrine and is credited for many advances in military survival and mobility gear.
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Transformation: In 1957, the Arctic Test Board merged with the Army’s Mountain and Desert Warfare Board, eventually becoming part of the U.S. Army Cold Regions Test Center, which continues its mission today.
