Chilean Paratroopers, 60th Anniversary Celebrated

Chile celebrated an anniversary full of history and significance: 60 years since the birth of national military parachuting. An occasion that featured the paratroopers of the Brigade of Special Operations "Lautaro" (BOE) and the School of Paratroopers and Special Forces (ESCPAR y FEs), with a symbolic ceremony at the Pequenco drop zone, where military jumps were performed from Airbus C-235 and Casa C-212 aircraft.

From Origins to an Elite School

The origin of ESCPAR dates back to April 2, 1965, when General Bernardino Parada Moreno, then Commander-in-Chief of the Army, established the first Paratrooper Battalion No. 1 “Pelantaru”. As early as 1964, Captains Dante Iturriaga M. and Florencio Fuentealba A. were sent to train at Fuerte Sherman, the U.S. Army's parachute training center. Upon returning home, they implemented what they had learned, selecting officers and non-commissioned officers for the fundamental courses: basic paratrooper, jumpmaster, and parachute maintenance and packing specialist.

On August 23, 1965, the School of Paratroopers and Special Forces was officially established, with the mission of training high-level military operators for airborne and special operations. Over time, this task 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 at ESCPAR has evolved profoundly. From the initial basic descent and survival techniques, it has progressed to teaching advanced methods, including HALO and HAHO jumps (high altitude with low or high opening), the use of automatic and manual opening parachutes, and operations in complex environments: desert, mountain, forest, and urban settings.

A fundamental step in this modernization was taken in 2021, with the introduction of T-11 parachutes, ensuring a more stable and safer descent, reducing the risk of injuries. Completing the kit is the T-11R emergency parachute, more reliable than the previous T-10R model.

Each operator is trained not only from a technical standpoint but also in psychological, tactical, and military values. They must be able to handle operations that require absolute concentration, composure, and extreme precision.

Chilean Military Parachuting: Beyond War

Beyond its central role in conflicts and national defense, Chilean military parachuting has also distinguished itself in humanitarian missions, rescue operations, and peacekeeping, both at home and abroad. This demonstrates the strategic versatility of the specialty and the high level of professionalism achieved.

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

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

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

Also, Brigadier General Javier Abarzúa D., Commander of the BOE, emphasized 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” and “Southern Fenix”.

A Living Legacy

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