Training and Equipment of Airborne Infantry

Airborne infantry units, renowned for their capability to be deployed rapidly into battle zones, undergo rigorous training and are equipped with specialized gear tailored to their unique operational requirements.

Training

Basic Airborne Course

The United States Army Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, is a primary institution where soldiers receive their initial parachute training. This school, part of the 507th Infantry Regiment, conducts the Basic Airborne Course which is designed to train soldiers in the skills necessary for them to become paratroopers.

The course typically spans three weeks, divided into three phases: Ground Week, Tower Week, and Jump Week. In Ground Week, soldiers are introduced to the basics of parachute landing falls and exit procedures. Tower Week emphasizes mock door training and practice jumps from a 250-foot tower. Jump Week culminates in a series of five jumps, including one night jump, from a C-130 or C-17 aircraft.

Advanced Training

After the basic course, soldiers can progress to advanced training specific to their units, such as the 82nd Airborne Division or the 101st Airborne Division. These divisions, along with others like the 11th Airborne Division, conduct regular airborne operations that include tactical jumps, night operations, and combat maneuvers.

Specialized training is also offered for specific roles within airborne units, such as Pathfinders, Jumpmasters, and Rangers, who are tasked with more complex operations and command roles during airborne missions.

Equipment

Parachutes

The backbone of airborne operations is the parachute. Modern airborne infantry utilize the T-11 parachute, a non-steerable parachute system that provides a slower descent rate, increasing the safety and accuracy of landings. Prior to the T-11, the T-10 parachute was standard issue.

Combat Gear

Airborne infantry are equipped with lightweight, modular gear to ensure mobility and versatility. This includes the Advanced Combat Helmet (ACH) and the Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) system that allows soldiers to customize their loadout based on mission requirements.

Their weapons systems typically include compact and lightweight firearms such as the M4 Carbine and, often, the M249 Light Machine Gun for squad support. Night vision devices, communication equipment, and GPS units are also integral components of an airborne infantryman's kit.

Vehicles and Support Equipment

Though primarily infantry, airborne units occasionally deploy with Light Tactical Vehicles and other air-droppable resources to bolster their operational capability. The HMMWV and MRZR are among vehicular resources that can be air-dropped to support rapid mobility once on the ground.

Airborne Infantry: A Detailed Exploration

Definition and Purpose

Airborne infantry refers to military units that are moved by aircraft and dropped into battle, typically by parachute. These units are specially trained to conduct airborne operations, providing them the ability to quickly deploy and engage in combat behind enemy lines. The primary advantage of airborne infantry is their ability to surprise the enemy by entering from the sky, often where the enemy is least prepared.

Historical Development

World War II

The concept of airborne infantry gained prominence during World War II, with pioneering operations conducted by both the Allied and Axis powers. Notable early airborne operations include the German Fallschirmjäger during the invasions of Norway and Belgium, and the British 1st Airborne Division during Operation Market Garden.

Cold War and Beyond

During the Cold War, airborne infantry units became a staple of many military organizations worldwide, including the United States Army which developed elite units such as the 82nd Airborne Division and the 101st Airborne Division. These units participated in numerous conflicts including the Vietnam War and the Gulf War.

Modern Airborne Infantry

United States

In the contemporary era, the United States continues to maintain highly capable airborne units. The 173rd Airborne Brigade based in Vicenza, Italy, and the 187th Infantry Regiment (Rakkasans) of the 101st Airborne Division are notable examples. These units are often involved in rapid deployment scenarios and are trained extensively in air assault operations.

United Kingdom

The Parachute Regiment, known colloquially as the Paras, remains a critical component of the British Army's rapid deployment capability. The Parachute Regiment is famous for its rigorous selection process and its role in various military operations globally.

India

India's Parachute Regiment is an elite airborne unit known for its versatility and has participated in numerous operations both within and outside India. The regiment provides the Indian Army with the capability to perform rapid and decisive actions in various types of terrain.

France

The 2nd Foreign Parachute Regiment (2e REP) of the French Foreign Legion is known for its demanding training and operational readiness. The unit has been deployed in various operations throughout Africa and the Middle East.

Types of Airborne Operations

Parachute Assault

Parachute assaults involve dropping troops from aircraft directly into battle zones. These operations require precise planning and coordination to ensure that troops land in the correct locations and are ready for immediate combat.

Air Assault

Unlike traditional parachute drops, air assault operations involve transporting troops via helicopters to their engagement zones. This method allows for more controlled and flexible deployment, making it ideal for complex terrains.

Rapid Deployment

Airborne units are often part of rapid deployment forces, meaning they can be mobilized and deployed quickly in response to emerging threats. This capability is crucial for addressing sudden conflicts or humanitarian crises.