Paratroopers in future operations

Abstract

<i>Between the two World Wars paratroopers or airborne units were set up in preparation for the coming conflicts as the means of the vertical envelopement. During World War II several airborne operations were conducted. The strength of paratroopers deployed ranged from the individual troopers to tens of thousands. During the Cold War era militaries in different conflicts also used parachutes as a delivery system, airborne and special forces units for combat behind enemy lines many times. The development of helicopter technology modernized airborne operations and gave a possibility to combine it with air assult capabilities. Today’s operations require rapid deployment of forces to stop the escalation of any conflict and handle the situation, finally to restore peace, normalize the situation and life conditions. To fulfil such requirements paratrooper units are one of the most appropriate ones. Thank to their high readiness, medical and mental conditions, moral and fighting spirit, airborne or air-transportable weaponry and equipment they can operate successfully in an extreme, unknown environment till the arrival of the main stabilisation forces.</i>