Airborne Elite

The paratroopers simulated a live operation: they jumped from only a 400 m altitude, fully armed and equipped.

The operation did not only aim to test the new technology but also to demonstrate a capability of key importance. It might happen during warfare that servicemembers need to enter a territory without being noticed, or a tank is not effective due to the terrain conditions.

Another advantage of insertion by airdrop is the power of surprise. During the exercise, paratroopers arrived in several waves with static line jumps. This tactic makes it possible for them to arrange into organised groups after the jump.

Besides being well-trained, state-of-the-art technology is also required for success. It is not surprising that the 23.5-ton KC-390 Millennium is among the most modern transport aircraft in the world. The pilots’ performance and the jumps’ accuracy are facilitated by the Continuous Computational Drop Point (CCDP) calculation software. This system analyses the altitude of the flight, the wind and other weather conditions to calculate the ideal air release point. This is what makes it possible that the airborne troops or the up to several-ton load can land exactly in the designated zone.

The exercise also shed light on the changed opportunities of the Hungarian Defence Forces. The range of the KC-390 with auxiliary fuel tanks can reach 8500 km, which means that Hungarian special operations forces are deployable not only within the region, but also in long-distance, long-range operations. Whether it is hostage rescue, evacuation of civilians or reconnaissance in enemy territory, this day demonstrated that both the technology and the personnel are ready for the task.