WIESBADEN, Germany —
Over 1,600 paratroopers from the U.S., Germany, Netherlands, France, and Italy, will conduct a major airborne assault exercise led by the U.S. Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade “Sky Soldiers” near Pabrade, Lithuania on May 16.
This exercise is part of Swift Response 25, one of five coordinated airborne operations demonstrating the U.S. Army’s ability to quickly deploy forces and work alongside Allies in Europe and the Arctic.
“Leading this multinational airborne assault is an honor and a responsibility our Sky Soldiers take seriously,” said Col. Joshua Gaspard, commander, 173rd Airborne Brigade. “With five Allies on this drop zone, Swift Response 25 gives us the chance to demonstrate that we can move fast, fight hard, and be ready—together.”
Beyond demonstrating combat readiness, the 173rd Airborne Brigade will also be pioneering a new capability: delivering blood via drones on the battlefield.
“This exercise lets us stress-test our medical systems in the most realistic conditions possible,” said Maj. David Hourani, brigade surgeon, 173rd Airborne Brigade. “Incorporating drones for blood resupply and operating under CBRN conditions pushes our team to think ahead and respond faster—just like we would have to in a real fight.”
The U.S. Army’s 7384th Blood Support Detachment, part of the Army Reserve Medical Command, will provide support, utilizing equipment from pre-positioned supplies. They will work alongside the 512th Field Hospital at a separate location in Lithuania to provide broader medical support.
Swift Response 25 is a component of DEFENDER 25, a larger series of exercises—including Immediate Response and Saber Guardian—led by U.S. Army Europe and Africa. These exercises involve troops from 29 Allied and partner nations, aiming to strengthen global deterrence. Lithuania’s national exercise, Iron Wolf, will also be integrated with Swift Response 25, including participation from Germany, Lithuania, and the Netherlands.
Media Opportunities:
Journalists interested in covering DEFENDER 25 activities should email media@army.mil to be added to the distribution list. More information is available at www.EuropeAfrica.army.mil/DefenderEurope.
Please Note: Airborne operations are dependent on weather conditions and the exercise plan is subject to change.