I Italian Paratroopers of the Folgore Brigade recently participated in a major multinational exercise in Sweden, once again demonstrating their exceptional level of preparedness and operational capability. The training event, called 'Swift Response 2024'took place in the areas of Skillingaryd, Hagshult e Kvarnand is an integral part of NATO's multi-domain exercise Steadfast Defender 24 which involved approximately 90,000 soldiers in a series of large-scale real-world trainings conducted in various locations under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SAUCER).
Exercise Swift Response 24 was designed to test the readiness, interoperability and ability of participating units to conduct airborne operations. In addition, it aimed to strengthen ties between units from allied countries belonging to the airborne community. The Folgore participated with an operational company and an RLS (Real Life Support) team from the 183rd Parachute Regiment 'Nembo, an arrangement of the Logistic Regiment 'Folgore and a team from Parachute Brigade 'Folgore' Command.
The focus of the exercise was the conduct of a JFEO (Joint Forcible Entry Operation) which was attended by about 800 US, Spanish, Italian and Hungarian paratroopers. Departed from Aviano Air Base (PN) aboard a C-17 of the U.S. Air Force, the Italian Parachutists jumped on the drop zone in Hagshult, Swedenwhere they performed control and security operations in the area. Subsequently, they received additional tasks that included a heliborne air assault and a minor complex attack.
Thanks to the high level of technical and professional preparation and the psychophysical characteristics of its personnel, the Folgore continues to be one of the main tools at the disposal of the Italian Army to ensure a rapid and effective response in crisis and emergency situations. The ability to deploy, in a short time, operational units in all areas of confrontation confirms the strategic importance of the Brigade.
Participation in the exercise Swift Response 24 also strengthened ties between allied nations, confirming the importance of international cooperation for global security.
