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What military roles involve skydiving?

Skydiving seems thrilling and I've heard some military jobs include it. Can anyone share which military positions regularly involve skydiving and what the experience is like?

a year ago

Several roles in the military involve skydiving, predominantly in Special Operations or Search and Rescue units.

In the U.S., the Army's Special Forces, also known as Green Berets, require Airborne training, which includes skydiving and parachuting skills. Similarly, the Army's 75th Ranger Regiment involves regular skydiving.

The Air Force's Pararescue personnel, often referred to as PJs, undergo extensive skydiving training too. Their role is designed around going behind enemy lines to rescue and recover downed pilots and other personnel.

Navy SEALs and Marine Recon units also have skydiving components in their roles as part of their respective service's Special Operations community.

As for the experience, it tends to be intense and physically demanding. One must have initial certification from the military's Airborne School, and further advanced HALO (High Altitude-Low Opening) and HAHO (High Altitude-High Opening) qualifications are typically needed for Special Operations roles. These roles often require night jumps and training jumps carrying full gear, which can pose additional challenges beyond the skydiving itself.

Of course, it's important to remember that while skydiving can be an exciting aspect of these roles, it is just one part of the overall skillset required and the training and daily work are serious and demanding. If your interest in skydiving is driving your considering these roles, make sure you're also aligned with the other commitments and requirements they entail.

a year ago

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