Military Free-Fall (HALO/HAHO)

The Military Free-Fall (MFF) certification is an advanced airborne qualification available to operators within MSOT 8213 – Task Force Raven. This certification represents successful completion of high-altitude parachute operations, including both HALO (High Altitude – Low Opening) and HAHO (High Altitude – High Opening).

It is modeled after the U.S. Army Military Free-Fall School and expands infiltration options for special operations missions.

Responsibilities

Safely execute HALO and HAHO parachute jumps during operations.
Employ oxygen systems for high-altitude insertions.
Conduct long-range canopy navigation for offset infiltration (HAHO).
Assemble with the MSOT at designated release or rally points.
Advise leadership on infiltration planning and limitations of free-fall operations.

Training Required

Must be a Critical Skills Operator (CSO) in good standing.
Must be a Basic Airborne (Static Line) qualified operator.
Completion of the Military Free-Fall Training Course.

Skills & Capabilities

Proficiency in HALO free-fall parachute operations.
Competence in HAHO navigation and canopy control.
Familiarity with oxygen systems and high-altitude procedures.
Ability to infiltrate covertly from high altitude under day/night conditions.
Knowledge of group navigation and rally planning under canopy.

Equipment

Ram-air parachute system (HALO/HAHO capable).
Oxygen mask and supply system for high-altitude jumps.
Combat load rigged for free-fall operations.
Navigation aids (GPS, compass, IR strobes, beacons).

Training Course

Module 1 – Free-Fall Fundamentals

Free-fall body position and stability drills.
Exit procedures from high altitude.
Emergency procedures for malfunctions.

Module 2 – Oxygen Systems

Pre-jump checks and setup of oxygen equipment.
Emergency procedures for oxygen failure.
Monitoring altitude and system usage.

Module 3 – HALO Operations

High Altitude – Low Opening techniques.
Delayed canopy deployment.
Rapid infiltration and descent profiles.

Module 4 – HAHO Operations

High Altitude – High Opening techniques.
Extended canopy navigation.
Group navigation and silent infil to objective.

Graduation Criteria

Successfully completes simulated HALO and HAHO jumps.
Demonstrates proficiency in oxygen equipment usage.
Maintains stability, canopy control, and navigation to the objective.

Advancement

After earning MFF certification, operators may advance to:

Free-Fall Jumpmaster (FFJM) roles.
Reconnaissance-focused insertion elements.
Instructor billets for airborne training.

Summary

The Military Free-Fall certification provides Task Force Raven with advanced infiltration capability via HALO and HAHO parachute operations. This qualification builds on Basic Airborne and allows operators to insert from high altitude with precision and stealth.