Are airborne also Rangers?

Are airborne also Rangers?

The Airborne and Rangers are both esteemed and highly trained units in the United States Army. Nonetheless, they operate in different capacities and serve different purposes. Let's delve into the specifics of each.

1. Airborne

The Airborne division in the military refers to soldiers who have completed the necessary training to conduct airborne operations. This involves parachuting from aircraft into combat zones. Airborne units are specially trained to swiftly deploy into enemy territory while employing various combat techniques.

Being an "Airborne" soldier is not synonymous with being a "Ranger." The Airborne division encompasses a broader range of military personnel beyond the Rangers. For instance, there are non-combat support roles within the Airborne units, such as cooks, medics, and logistics specialists.

2. Rangers

The Rangers, on the other hand, are a specialized infantry unit within the US Army. They are known for their exceptional combat skills and proficiency in conducting various types of missions, including direct action raids, airfield seizure, reconnaissance, and personnel recovery, among others.

Rangers undergo rigorous and intensive training to develop their expertise in small-unit tactics and deployability. Their training includes airborne operations, but Rangers are not exclusively focused on this aspect. Rangers pride themselves on being adaptable and capable of performing in various environments and mission types.

Misconceptions:

There is a common misconception that all Airborne troops are Rangers, which is inaccurate. While Rangers often possess Airborne qualifications, not all Airborne personnel are Rangers. The distinction lies in the specific training and specialization of the two roles.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Airborne soldiers are those who have completed the necessary training to conduct airborne operations, while the Rangers are a specialized infantry unit within the US Army. While there may be some overlap in terms of qualifications, being Airborne does not automatically make one a Ranger.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial for appreciating the different roles and functions within the military. Each unit has its own unique purpose and contribution to the overall mission, and it is vital to acknowledge and respect these differences.

References:

- United States Army. "Airborne Operations." Official Website of U.S. Army. https://www.army.mil/airborne/

- United States Army. "75th Ranger Regiment." Official Website of U.S. Army. https://www.army.mil/75thRanger/

Image source:

- U.S. Army. "Airborne School." Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/62131536@N03/32722470936

Frequently Asked Questions

No, not all airborne soldiers are Rangers. Being an airborne soldier means they have completed airborne training and are qualified to be deployed by parachute. However, becoming a Ranger requires completing the rigorous Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP) and serving in a Ranger unit.

Yes, a Ranger can become an airborne soldier. In fact, many Rangers undergo airborne training in order to become qualified for parachute operations. It allows them to be deployed by parachute and conduct airborne assaults as part of their duties.

The main difference between airborne soldiers and Rangers lies in their training and mission. Airborne soldiers have undergone the specific training to be qualified for parachute operations, while Rangers have completed the extensive Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP) to become a part of the elite Ranger units. Rangers are specialized in conducting direct-action raids, airfield seizures, and other high-velocity missions behind enemy lines.

No, not all Rangers are trained in airborne operations. While many Rangers undergo airborne training, it is not a requirement for every Ranger. The decision to attend airborne school and become parachute qualified is made by the individual soldier or unit based on mission requirements and operational needs.

Yes, airborne soldiers can serve in Ranger units. In fact, many airborne soldiers seek to serve in the specialized Ranger units to further enhance their skills and capabilities. The combination of airborne and Ranger training allows these soldiers to conduct highly specialized missions behind enemy lines with increased flexibility and effectiveness.