The 71M Aerostat Test Balloon is prepared for lift off from the Aerostat Test Bed at McGregor Range, N. M. on June 11, 1996, during exercise Roving Sands '96. The Aerostat's radar system, located under the belly of the balloon, is able to track aircraft and cruise missiles at a range of up to 150 nautical miles. Roving Sands '96 is the world's largest joint, tactical air defense exercise involving service men and women from the U.S., Germany, the Netherlands and Canada. The exercise allows multinational forces to practice tactics, techniques and procedures improving their defense capabilities.