Paratroopers are soldiers trained in parachuting and formed into an airborne force. Paratroopers have a tactical advantage in that they can appear on the battlefield anywhere that aircraft can fly over. Thus they can evade enemy fortifications designed to repel an attack from a specific direction, and also force the enemy to devote manpower to protecting its rear. Paratroopers were first used extensively in WWII.

Basic Paratroop Safety

Paratroopers are advised to tape their rifle muzzles, to prevent dirt from damaging the weapon; in addition, they should tape any other loose objects, and ensure that all sharp objects are covered. If parachuting with a rucksack, it should be released on a lowering line, prior to impact.

• Static Line
• HALO/HAHO
• Treejumping

For a history of paratroop forces see Airborne forces.