First Long-Distance Para-Drop By French A400M

A French A400M aircraft airdropped paratroopers of the 8th Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment (RPIMa) in Cote d'Ivoire after a non-stop flight from France, making it the first such mission by the country’s military.

After taking off from Toulouse-Francazal airport and after 7 hours of non-stop flight, the 80 paratroopers jumped into the sky over Yamoussoukro, in Côte d'Ivoire. The A400M made four rotations allowing 20 paratroopers to execute their jump through the two side doors simultaneously under the responsibility of the drop chief. The 8th RPIMa unit then continued their exercise on the ground, the French defense ministry said in a release.

This exercise shows the capacity of a rapid projection of an intervention force from France on territories more than 4,000 kilometers away. Led by the 11th Parachute Brigade, EAP Michel relies on the capabilities of the A400M. It represents the longest projection of Airborne Troops (TAP) conducted from France. The modernization of strategic transport aircraft has notably made it possible to increase their carrying capacity and elongation.

This exercise also enabled units of the Armed Forces of Côte d'Ivoire (FACI) to conduct assault landings. It demonstrates the interoperability between our two armies. This maneuver, which involves high-end capabilities, testifies to France's credibility and determination to support its partners.