Helis, June 02, 2026 - TANCOS, PORTUGAL — Phase A of the Portuguese Army Pathfinder Course 01/26 has successfully concluded at the Parachute Regiment (Regimento de Paraquedistas), marking the completion of weeks of intensive tactical and physical training.
The Pathfinder Course is widely regarded as one of the most demanding programs within the Portuguese Armed Forces. During this initial stage, candidates underwent rigorous assessments designed to test their resilience, adaptability, and tactical proficiency under extreme stress.
A key component of the training involved close cooperation with the Portuguese Air Force. Utilizing the AW119Kx Koala multirole helicopters operated by Squadron 552 "Zangões", students conducted complex aerial maneuvers, including fast-rope and rappelling operations. The integration of the agile single-engine AW119 allowed candidates to realistically simulate rapid combat deployment, tactical troop transport, and extraction missions in challenging terrain.
The comprehensive curriculum required students to master a broad range of specialized combat skills, including:
Pathfinders, known in Portugal as Precursores Aeroterrestres, are specialized airborne soldiers trained to operate ahead of the main force. Their missions include reconnaissance, identifying and marking landing and drop zones, guiding aircraft, and supporting the insertion of airborne and special operations units. Working in small teams, they provide critical intelligence and navigation support during complex air assault and parachute operations.
With Phase A complete, the remaining students will advance to the next stage of training, moving one step closer to earning the prestigious Pathfinder qualification and joining the ranks of Portugal's airborne specialists.
Based in Tancos, the Parachute Regiment is the training center of Portugal's airborne forces. It is responsible for preparing highly skilled soldiers capable of rapid deployment by air, land, or sea in support of national and international operations.
The Pathfinder Course is widely regarded as one of the most demanding programs within the Portuguese Armed Forces. During this initial stage, candidates underwent rigorous assessments designed to test their resilience, adaptability, and tactical proficiency under extreme stress.
A key component of the training involved close cooperation with the Portuguese Air Force. Utilizing the AW119Kx Koala multirole helicopters operated by Squadron 552 "Zangões", students conducted complex aerial maneuvers, including fast-rope and rappelling operations. The integration of the agile single-engine AW119 allowed candidates to realistically simulate rapid combat deployment, tactical troop transport, and extraction missions in challenging terrain.
The comprehensive curriculum required students to master a broad range of specialized combat skills, including:
- Maritime Infiltration: Conducting covert waterborne insertions and beach landings.
- Mountaineering: Navigating steep terrain, performing cliff assaults, and executing high-angle rope operations.
- Demolitions: Employing breaching charges and tactical explosives safely and effectively.
- Combat Marksmanship: Developing advanced shooting skills and close-quarters battle (CQB) techniques.
- Direct Action: Planning and executing high-risk raids against designated targets.
- Reconnaissance: Conducting deep-penetration scouting and intelligence-gathering missions.
- Survival: Enduring isolation while applying evasion, survival, and sustainment techniques.
Pathfinders, known in Portugal as Precursores Aeroterrestres, are specialized airborne soldiers trained to operate ahead of the main force. Their missions include reconnaissance, identifying and marking landing and drop zones, guiding aircraft, and supporting the insertion of airborne and special operations units. Working in small teams, they provide critical intelligence and navigation support during complex air assault and parachute operations.
With Phase A complete, the remaining students will advance to the next stage of training, moving one step closer to earning the prestigious Pathfinder qualification and joining the ranks of Portugal's airborne specialists.
Based in Tancos, the Parachute Regiment is the training center of Portugal's airborne forces. It is responsible for preparing highly skilled soldiers capable of rapid deployment by air, land, or sea in support of national and international operations.
See also |
AW119Kx Koala in
Força Aérea Portuguesa 
