In a groundbreaking joint effort on August 17, 2023, in Doha, Qatar, the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, Qatar Emiri Air Force, and Qatar Joint Special Forces held an airborne insertion exercise. This event marked the 1st Theater Sustainment Command’s debut static-line airborne operation in the U.S. Central Command zone, aiming to bolster partnerships between the U.S. and coalition forces. The operation involved 19 U.S. paratroopers and 25 Qatari paratroopers, showcasing the collaborative spirit and emphasizing the importance of inter-service coordination.
Key Points:
- The airborne insertion exercise in Doha was a combined effort involving the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, and Qatari military forces.
- This marked the 1st Theater Sustainment Command’s first-ever static-line airborne operation in the U.S. Central Command area.
- U.S. Air Force’s 102nd Rescue Squadron supported the operation using a C-130 aircraft, deploying 19 paratroopers from the 165th Quartermaster Brigade.
- Concurrently, 25 Qatari paratroopers performed their own airborne operation, aiming to rendezvous with their U.S. counterparts in the designated drop zone.
- The success of this operation paves the way for future joint airborne exercises, emphasizing the strengthening of military partnerships.