April 11, 2025. Project Closure Summary: “RESCUE the Fatigue: An Ecological Study in the Portuguese Air Force Operational Context”

Project Closure Summary: “RESCUE the Fatigue: An Ecological Study in the Portuguese Air Force Operational Context”

See the project webpage HERE

This project evaluated operational deployments' physiological, psychological, and cognitive impact on Portuguese Air Force Search and Rescue squads. The crews of Portuguese Air Force Search and Rescue squads have multidisciplinary roles (pilots, co-pilots, aeronautical nurses, system operators, and saviour- rescuers), each with unique physical and mental demands.

The study was structured in three main parts: a baseline characterisation of the military, an assessment of the acute effects of a 15-day deployment on the physiological and psychological state of the military, and an analysis of the cumulative impact of multiple deployments over 14 months on the military physical and men performance.

Although some results are, by the nature of the sample, sensitive, this ecological project allowed us to compile same key achievements and findings:

• Baseline Characterization:

Pilots were younger but showed lower grip strength than system operators and saviour- rescuers. There were no significant differences in lower limb strength or maximal oxygen uptake between roles.

• Impact of a 15-Day Deployment:

Short-term deployments led to measurable declines in neuromuscular performance, notably in the lower limb rate of force development and a reduction in peak torque in knee flexors. There was also a decrease in muscle quality indicators such as phase angle (PhA), indicating early signs of physical fatigue.

Cognitive assessments showed that pilots reported more depressive symptoms, while non-pilots experienced more physical fatigue and poorer postural control.

Post-deployment periods (rest days at home) showed improvements in heart rate variability and sleep metrics, suggesting some level of recovery during home rest.

• Cumulative Impact Over 14 Months:

Longitudinal analysis revealed a continued decline in certain physical capabilities, such as significant reductions in lower limb strength among saviour- rescuers and decreased postural stability among pilots.

Hematological indicators (e.g., hemoglobin and ferritin levels) declined in pilots, potentially impairing oxygen transport capacity—an issue of concern given frequent exposure to hypobaric conditions.

Psychological and cognitive markers suggested a trend of chronic fatigue and declining readiness, with some crew members showing early signs of operational burnout.

Conclusion: This pioneering project demonstrated that operational exposure significantly affects the search and rescue squads of the Portuguese Air Force in multiple domains, including physical performance, postural control, cognitive function, and mental well-being. The evidence points toward cumulative fatigue and insufficient recovery, with potentially critical implications for mission and flight safety and individual health. These findings underline the urgent need for institutional strategies to monitor, prevent, and mitigate fatigue, including improved scheduling, rest protocols, and mental health support systems. Addressing these issues is crucial not only for crew welfare but also for the sustained operational readiness and success of the Portuguese Air Force.