The Leapfest 2026 confirms itself as the world reference event for military static line parachuting (static line). Hosted by the Rhode Island Army National Guard, the competition transformed the skies of Exeter, RI, into a major operational stage, bringing together active-duty paratroopers from numerous allied and international partner countries.
An International Showdown: The Participants
The 2026 edition saw a choral participation that testifies to the strategic importance of the event for airborne communities worldwide.In addition to the representation of the United States Armed Forces — which deployed units such as the USAF 336TRG SERE, the 404th Civil Affairs Battalion, and various detachments of the 1-143rd Infantry Regiment (Airborne) — the event welcomed numerous international contingents.
Among the nations present were:
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United Kingdom: Participated with the RAF Brize Norton and multiple teams from the 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team.
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International Partners: Australia, Canada, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Malaysia, Brazil, Qatar, Singapore, Bangladesh, Guatemala, Belgium, Italy, Germany, Hungary, Kenya, Spain, Greece, and Poland.
The Presence of the Folgore Parachute Brigade
In this multinational context, a team from the Folgore Parachute Brigade also participated.The presence of the "Folgore" at Leapfest 2026 represents a moment of fundamental training importance and cooperation, allowing Italian soldiers to engage with colleagues from over 20 nations, share tactics, and strengthen operational ties.
The Essence of the Competition
The competition requires paratroopers — divided into teams of four — to jump from CH-47 Chinook helicopters at 1,500 feet (457 meters) with MC-6 parabolic canopy parachutes.The score is determined by measuring the time between landing (completing the PLF - Parachute Landing Fall) and reaching the precision point marked in the drop zone (drop zone).
In addition to the final ranking, the added value of Leapfest lies in the "Foreign Jump Exchange": a day dedicated to the exchange of badges where soldiers of different nationalities have the opportunity to jump under the direction of foreign Jumpmasters, obtaining the respective foreign "wings".
#Leapfest,#Folgore,#Paracadutisti,#CooperazioneMultinazionale,#EsercitazioneMilitare
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