The 8th Paratroopers Folgore and Underground Combat

L'8th Parachute Engineer Regiment “Folgore” represents one of the most specialized units of the Italian Army, with an advanced operational capacity in underground warfare. Its preparation, operational doctrine and use in complex scenarios make it a fundamental asset for the Armed Forces.

The Role of the 8th Regiment in the Development of the Capability

The use of the subsoil as an operational environment represents a tactical and strategic challenge. Tunnels, bunkers, urban passages and underground infrastructures require specific training and the use of dedicated equipment. The 8th Paratrooper Regiment “Folgore” was tasked by the Army General Staff as coordinating and training authority to develop combat skills in the underground environment.

Features of Underground Combat

Underground combat presents unique challenges that the 8th Regiment addresses with a structured approach:

• Mobility and Manoeuvre: Exploiting the underground allows forces to be concentrated and to move safely without being detected.
• Protection and Concealment: Underground infrastructure provides shelter from observation and ballistic threat.
• Command and Control (C2): Managing communications in an environment with obstacles to signal transmission requires advanced systems and specific procedures.
• Security and Clearance: Clearance techniques for the removal of obstacles and explosive devices improve the safety of operations.

Training and Specialisation

To operate effectively in these contexts, the sappers of the 8th Regiment are subjected to intense training cyclewhich includes:

• Movement and survival techniques in confined environments.
• Use of advanced equipment, including night vision and threat detection sensors.
• Use of UAV systems for underground reconnaissance.
• Breaching procedures for opening safe passages.

Equipment and Technological Innovation

The 8th Regiment integrates advanced technologies to improve its effectiveness:

• LIDAR and Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) for mapping underground infrastructure.
• CEMA systems (Cyber Electromagnetic Activity) to neutralise electronic threats.
• Innovative materials for reducing the effects of detonations in closed environments.

Conclusion

The 8th Paratrooper Regiment “Folgore” confirms itself as a high-level unit, capable of facing the challenges of modern warfare in extreme environments. Its role in underground combat, its high specialization and the use of cutting-edge technologies make it a crucial asset for national defense and security.

Source: https://www.esercito.difesa.it/comunicazione/Pagine/Nuova-capacita-raggiunta-per-l-Esercito-Italiano241010.aspx