Folgore in Cesano: Trench Warfare Takes Center Stage Again

At the Tactical Training Center (CAT) of the Infantry School in Cesano, the Paratroopers of the 187th Paratrooper Regiment “Folgore” recently conducted the exercise “Sagittario”, a high-intensity training activity aimed at developing operational capabilities consistent with contemporary scenarios.

The activity is part of the preparation of the Paratrooper Brigade “Folgore”, always one of the key assets of the Italian Army, and took place in urbanized environments, simulating realistic contexts characterized by high operational complexity. The units engaged in opposing force exercises, replicating tactical situations involving the simultaneous presence of symmetric, asymmetric, and hybrid threats.

The main objective of the exercise was to consolidate the units' ability to operate in dynamic and unstable scenarios, where decision-making speed, coordination between units, and adaptability are crucial factors for mission success.

In this context, the CAT in Cesano confirms itself as a fundamental hub for advanced infantry training, capable of offering realistic training environments and updated technologies, essential for preparing military personnel for the operational challenges of the present and future.

The Return of Trench Warfare: Techniques, Procedures, and New Threats

One of the central elements of the “Sagittario” exercise was trench warfare, a form of engagement that, while evoking past conflicts, has proven to be relevant again in contemporary operational theaters.

The Paratroopers of the 187th Regiment perfected:

• the procedures of trench progression;
• the clearing of enemy positions;
• the defense of fortified strongholds.

These activities require high precision, coordination, and decision-making readiness, along with a solid knowledge of close combat techniques.

The simulated operational context required the military to face heterogeneous threats, including the presence of regular and irregular adversaries, the use of improvised devices, and the need to operate in highly degraded environments. In such conditions, the ability to move and fight within trench systems is a crucial element for terrain control and unit survival.

The return of this type of training reflects the evolution of modern conflicts, where traditional elements combine with advanced technologies, creating a hybrid battlefield. Trenches, in fact, are no longer just static defensive structures but become an integral part of complex systems that include sensors, drones, and communication networks.

Technology and Interoperability: The Key to Operational Readiness

Alongside traditional combat techniques, the “Sagittario” exercise saw significant use of innovative technologies, particularly:

• Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA);
• platforms for tactical micromobility.

The use of drones allowed the units to improve their situational awareness, facilitating the identification of threats and the planning of maneuvers in complex urban environments. The micromobility platforms, on the other hand, increased the speed of movement of the units, ensuring greater tactical flexibility even in tight and hard-to-reach spaces.

These tools represent a true capability multiplier, able to increase operational effectiveness without significantly increasing personnel risk exposure. Their integration into training procedures demonstrates the Italian Army's commitment to maintaining a high level of modernization and adaptation to new conflict scenarios.

The activities carried out in Cesano are part of the broader operational preparation path of the Paratrooper Brigade “Folgore”, aimed at ensuring high standards of readiness, interoperability, and response capability.

In an increasingly unstable international context, the ability to operate in an integrated, rapid, and effective manner is an essential requirement for paratrooper units. The “Sagittario” exercise confirms the central role of advanced training in maintaining operational excellence.