Advanced APRM Operators Course for Folgore Paratroopers

In recent days, the "Advanced" Course for Remote Piloted Aircraft Operators in the "mini" and "micro" (APRM) category was successfully concluded at the Training Center of the 41st IMINT Regiment "Cordenons". The training activity, which began on January 27, played a key role in the development of the Armed Forces' "Tactical Bubble" project, ensuring operators advanced preparation in the use of multirotor drones in complex scenarios.

The course, structured over three weeks of theoretical-practical training, involved personnel from the Alpine Brigade "Julia" and the Paratroopers Brigade "Folgore", already qualified as "Basic" APRM Operators. During the course, attendees acquired fundamental skills in the planning and operational use of drones in both daytime and nighttime environments, with particular attention to the Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) mode, which allows for long-distance flights in complex operational contexts. The training will culminate with the issuance of the "Advanced APRM Operator Qualification" by the APR Center of Excellence of the Air Force.

Italy has indeed initiated the acquisition of APR systems Micro (weight < 2 Kg), Mini (weight between 2 and 20 kg), and Light (25 < weight < 150 kg). These systems aim to implement and enhance surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities for the various components of the Army and, at the same time, provide support in case of public disasters and security operations in aid of Law Enforcement. The program includes the acquisition of systems divided into fixed/rotary wing, short range (1h - 10 Km), medium range (4h - 40 km), long range (6h - 60 km), and with flight persistence capability (> 10 h).

Remote Piloted Aircraft Center of Excellence (APRM)

The Remote Piloted Aircraft Center of Excellence in Amendola, under the supervision of the 3rd Department of the Air Force General Staff, continues to be a joint reference for training and education in the APR sector. Its mission extends from supporting basic and advanced training to implementing new operational procedures, ensuring interoperability among the different components of the Armed Forces and national agencies.

The evolution of the Italian Army's operational capabilities in the APRM sector demonstrates how training, education, and technology are essential elements to face the challenges of modern operational scenarios, ensuring constant professional growth of personnel employed in remote piloted operations.