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I believe they simply graded earth using a grader. Hauling in their own gravel or other material would've been cost prohibitive.

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Are you sure they built a runway? Sounds more like a FARP for helicopters.

Pretty much all US combat aircraft are tarmac bound due to low mounted engine inlets, with the exception of a couple transports and the A-10.

I was pretty sure my coworker said it was a runway (they used C-130s out of Peoria IL and based on the description it sounded like they were doing STOL exercises) but I’ll message him on LinkedIn to double check.

A C-130 would be a natural for such an exercise, it's in the ANG inventory and is fully capable of landing and taking off on such improvised runways. I imagine your recollection is accurate.

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