Chilean paratroopers celebrate 60th anniversary

Chile celebrated an anniversary full of history and meaning: 60 years since the birth of national military parachuting. An anniversary that saw the parachutists of the Brigata di Operazioni Speciali “Lautaro” (BOE) and the School of Parachutists and Special Forces (ESCPAR y FEs)with a symbolic ceremony in the Pequenco jump zonewhere military airdrops were performed by Airbus C-235 and Casa C-212 aircraft.

From its origins to an elite school

L’origine della ESCPAR risale al 2 April 1965when the General Bernardino Parada Morenothen Commander-in-Chief of the Army, established the first Parachute Battalion No. 1 'Pelantaru'. As early as 1964, Captains Dante Iturriaga M. and Florencio Fuentealba A. were sent for training at the Fuerte Shermanthe US Army's parachute training centre. Back home, they put what they learned into practice, selecting officers and non-commissioned officers for the basic courses: basic parachutist, jump leader, and parachute maintenance and folding officer.

The 23 August 1965, the birth of the Parachute and Special Forces Schoolwith the mission to train high-level military operators for deployment in airborne and special operations. A task that, over time, has made the Chilean school one of the most respected institutions in Latin America in this field.

Sixty years of operational transformation

Over the years, training in ESCPAR has evolved profoundly. From the first basic descent and survival techniques, we have moved on to teaching advanced methodsincluding HALO and HAHO jumps (high altitude with low or high opening), the use of automatic and manual opening parachutes, and operations in complex environmentsdesert, mountain, forest and urban contexts.

A fundamental step in this modernisation was taken in the 2021with the introduction of the T-11 parachuteensuring a more stable and safer descent, reducing the risk of injury. Also completing the kit is the T-11R emergency parachute, more reliable than the previous T-10R model.

Each operator is trained not only technically, but also psychologically, tactically and in military values. He must be able to cope with operations that require absolute concentration, cold blood and extreme precision.

Chilean Military Parachuting: Beyond the War

In addition to its central role in conflicts and national defence, Chilean military parachuting has also distinguished itself in humanitarian, relief and peacekeeping missionsboth at home and abroad. This demonstrates the strategic versatility of the speciality and the high level of professionalism achieved.

During the 60th anniversary ceremony, the Colonel Juan Moncada H., Director of the School, said:

"Promotions of officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers who, with a bold vision towards the future, with perseverance and determination, not only changed the history of our Armed Forces, but also set the standard of courage and discipline for generations to come."

"Promotions of officers, non-commissioned officers and soldiers who, with a bold vision towards the future, with perseverance and determination, not only changed the history of our Armed Forces, but also set the standard of courage and discipline for generations to come."

Also the Brigadier General Javier Abarzúa D.BOE Commander, emphasised that the School represents the founding core of the Army's operational capabilities, thanks also to constant participation in joint exercises such as 'Estrella Austral", "Pacific Dagger" e "Southern Fenix".

A living legacy

ESCPAR y FEs not only celebrates a chronological milestone, but strengthens its identity. An identity forged in sacrifice, honour and dedication to duty. Sixty years after that first leap, the Chilean school continues to represent a model of excellence in Latin America, looking to the future with the same determination that saw it come into being.

Source: https://ejercito.cl/prensa/visor/aniversario-escuela-de-paracaidistas-y-fuerzas-especiales-seis-decadas-formando-a-soldados-de-operaciones-especiales