Extreme Patrol 2024

During 21 – 25 October 2024, the Italian Army’s elite Alpine Troops have successfully conducted the  ‘Extreme Patrol’ exercise in the rough terrain of Corvara in Badia. Over a period of three days and nights, fourteen highly trained patrols, including two teams of Czech Army paratroopers, operated at altitudes of 2000 meters in the unforgiving Dolomites, demonstrating their combat readiness and mountain warfare capabilities. Twelve patrols were from the Taurinense and Julia brigades, while the Czech paratroopers showcased their own mountain warfare expertise alongside their Italian counterparts.

A thorough planning process (military TLPs) was conducted as part of the exercise by all participating units, closely observed and evaluated by experienced instructors from the Mountain School in Aosta, Italy (credit: NATO MW COE)

Under the supervision of skilled trainers from the Alpine Training Center in Aosta and the Command in Bolzano, each patrol’s performance was assessed and scored to determine overall mission success. Involving approximately 300 combat personnel, the ‘Extreme Patrol’ exercise underlined the need for mental and physical training that defines troops operating in harsh mountain environment.

“This is what determination looks like!” (An evaluated rehearsal using a plastic table by one of the teams) (credit: NATO MW COE)

Each patrol unit, consisting of eight soldiers, maneuvered with more than 35 kg of gear per person, and traversed treacherous terrain with gradients exceeding 100%. They executed a series of complex missions set by the Alpine Troops Command to evaluate operational effectiveness and combat endurance. These missions included covert infiltration, overcoming vertical obstacles, establishing forward operating bases, setting up observation posts, and relaying enemy positions via secure radio transmissions. The exercise incorporated a simulated casualty extraction under fire, tactical river crossings, and a dynamic hostage rescue scenario with precision blank shooting using electronic (laser beam) simulation system.

An Alpini patrol overcoming harsh, steep terrain while maintaining cover and concealment principles on the second day of the exercise (credit: ITA Army)

The operation was conducted in partnership with local communities, ensuring both environmental safety and operational security. Support elements included the 3rd Alpine Regiment’s rapid response rescue team, rotary-wing assets from the 4th ‘Altair’ Army Aviation Regiment, and essential support from the Italian Red Cross Military Corps, all coordinated and managed by the exercise director and a 24/7 control room. Additionally, the exercise adhered to NATO standards, specifically ATrainP-6 (Mountain Warfare Training and Education) and ATP-3.2.1.3 (Conduct of Land Tactical Operations in a Mountainous Environment).

The Rapid Response Rescue team was ready to assist throughout the entire duration of the exercise. Fortunately, thanks to the above-standard professional training of all participating units, there was no need to deploy this asset, as no serious injuries occurred (credit: NATO MW COE)

“High-altitude operations and extreme cold climates present formidable challenges, serving as a proving ground for discipline and tactical excellence. The capability to dominate such environments is crucial for maintaining control over vast, resource-rich areas that are vital for global stability and national security.” General Michele RISI, Commander of the Alpine Troops (picture credit: NATO MW COE)

During this iteration, 12 out of 14 patrols successfully completed the exercise. The overall evaluation indicated very good results in skills such as maintaining combat power and force protection, cohesion and discipline, and the capability to plan and prepare for mountain operations. Areas for improvement were identified, particularly in navigation through mountainous terrain, which led to extended patrol movement times, and in principles for setting up observation points and patrol bases, partially due to the high level of fatigue caused by harsh terrain and weather conditions.

Patrol members performing life-saving procedures and preparing a wounded colleague for subsequent transport (credit: NATO MW COE)

Overall, the Extreme Patrol 2024 exercise was highly praised not only by the participants but also by senior military observers from NATO member states, including the commander of the U.S. Army’s 172nd Airborne Division, who emphasized the Alpini’s role as a key player in NATO’s mountain warfare strategy.

P.S. Dear Stefano (EXE DIR) – great job as always! Grazie mille & arrivederci!