In an increasingly tense international context, with winds of war blowing fiercely at the gates of Europe (and beyond), the need to maintain armed forces ready to respond to large-scale crises is more urgent than ever. In this scenario, the Folgore Parachute Brigade continues to refine its operational capabilities, especially for missions requiring operations behind enemy lines.
The constant training of the Folgore is not only aimed at ensuring the ability to operate in highly complex situations, but is even more important in light of the recent transition of the Brigade under the Land Operations Forces Command (COMFOTER). This new configuration strengthens the role of the 'Folgore' as an essential tool for immediate intervention in conflict scenarios, quickly projecting its units into critical operational contexts.
And it is precisely in this context that recently, at the Altopascio launch site, the Folgore Parachute Brigade conducted the 'Sagitta 2024' exerciseaimed at testing the Large Unit's ability to deploy the Advanced Command Post (ACP) after an airdrop over hostile territory.
The activity, coordinated by the 184th Tactical Command and Support Unit (RCST) 'Nembo'It tested the ACP's support and protection procedures, which are essential for the Command and Control of units in the initial stages of an airborne operation. The exercise focused on ensuring its high mobility, through continuous movement ('jumps') after grounding, necessary to ensure its survival and the uninterrupted operation of communication systems, an essential element for operational coordination.
In modern reference scenarios, characterised by the need to control large contested spaces, including through the conquest and maintenance of vital points and areas, the ability to exercise Command and Control in a close, timely and effective manner over airborne units is fundamental to guaranteeing the manoeuvre, right from its initial stages, and therefore the success of the mission.
Due to its high level of professional technical preparation and the psychophysical characteristics of its personnel, the Folgore Parachute Brigade, as from 2 September 2024 under the direct authority of the Land Operations Forces Commandis among the tools at the Army's disposal to ensure the Defence's ability to respond and intervene immediately in crisis and emergency situations, which require the deployment, within a short timeframe, of important devices capable of operating in all areas of confrontation.
