Airborne operation

Airborne Operation

An airborne operation is a military strategy involving the movement of ground-based military units to the battlefield through the use of aircraft, such as helicopters or airplanes. This strategy is often used to bypass enemy defenses, achieve surprise, and quickly establish a presence in a contested area.

History

The concept of airborne operations originated in the early 20th century, with the advent of aircraft capable of transporting troops and equipment. The first large-scale airborne operation was conducted by the Soviet Union during the Battle of Kiev in World War II. Since then, airborne operations have been used in various conflicts around the world, including the Vietnam War, the Falklands War, and the Iraq War.

Types of Airborne Operations

There are several types of airborne operations, each with its own specific objectives and tactics. These include:

• Air Assault: This involves the use of helicopters to transport troops directly into combat. This is often used for rapid response in fluid battle situations.

• Paratroop: In this type of operation, soldiers are dropped from aircraft using parachutes. This allows for the insertion of troops into areas that are difficult to reach by other means.

• Airdrop: This involves the delivery of equipment, supplies, or personnel from an aircraft in flight. This can be used to resupply troops in the field or to deliver heavy equipment that cannot be transported by helicopter.

Training and Equipment

Airborne operations require specialized training and equipment. Soldiers must be trained in parachute use, aircraft safety, and the specific tactics used in airborne operations. Equipment used in these operations includes parachutes, aircraft, and specialized gear for airdrops.

See Also

• Airborne forces
• Air assault
• Paratrooper
• Military tactics