US and French forces conduct parachute drills in Djibouti

American and French troops have completed a joint parachuting exercise in Djibouti, strengthening NATO interoperability through a three-day series of mixed jump operations and cross-equipment familiarisation.

The bilateral exercise, conducted from 17 to 19 March 2025, involved U.S. Air Force Pararescuemen from the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron and French paratroopers exchanging parachute systems and operating from both nations’ aircraft.

According to the U.S. Air Force, French personnel completed jumps using the American MC-6 parachute system from a U.S. Marine Corps KC-130J aircraft, while U.S. jumpers used the French EPC system during drops from a French CN235 transport aircraft.

Captain Courtney M. Bailey, commander of the 82nd Expeditionary Rescue Squadron, praised the integration and planning behind the exercise.

“The master sergeant’s expertise as our most experienced Military Freefall Jumpmaster was essential,” said Bailey. “His meticulous three-month planning effort, encompassing waivers, aircraft coordination, liaison visits and academic training, ensured the exercise’s success.”

The master sergeant also served as primary jumpmaster for U.S. aircraft operations, carrying out inspections and overseeing the deployment of personnel during the jumps.

Bailey added that the training underscored procedural alignment between the two forces. “We share similar safety restrictions and jump procedures, crucial for safe and effective operations. Increased frequency of these exchanges will streamline future collaborations.”

The exercise is part of ongoing NATO and coalition efforts to improve interoperability among partner nations, particularly in joint rapid response and personnel recovery operations. Djibouti’s strategic location on the Horn of Africa makes it a key site for such multinational training.