From June 24th to 27th, the 3rd RPIMa (Parachute Regiment) will conduct an open-air exercise throughout the Aude region (including in and around Carcassonne on June 24th and 27th), codenamed “Excel Cathare 25.”
Joined for the occasion by combined-arms reinforcements and air assets (airplanes and combat helicopters), more than 900 paratroopers from the 3rd RPIMa will train for combat during this tactical mission, carried out on the ground and in the air, with weapons and combat vehicles.
The objective? To give the people of Aude the opportunity to participate in high-intensity combat training, in a realistic but “risk-free” scenario.
During this exercise, aerial resources, including the “TIGRE” helicopter, will be used to drop paratroopers and also to support ground troops. These combat aircraft and helicopters will fly low over the city of Carcassonne.
If you will be affected by the closed streets on these dates you can consult the work page on the Ville de Carcassonne site by clicking here
Military Exercise to Simulate Complex Conflict Scenarios in Aude
Over four days, the military exercise will simulate challenging situations such as crossing an active motorway during a conflict, navigating an operational railway line, and conducting airspace operations.
Public Engagement and Demonstrations
The exercise will commence with operations in Narbonne and conclude in Carcassonne. Highlights will include a regimental parade on the Pont Neuf in Carcassonne and a demonstration jump in open terrain.
Following the four-day exercise, a major public event is scheduled for Saturday, June 28. This will feature a sports competition and a festive evening. Additionally, booths showcasing parachutist equipment will be set up across the city, though the exact schedule is yet to be announced.
For four days and three nights, seven combat companies will be deployed, comprising approximately 900 paratroopers who will train in real-life situations. Facing them, approximately one hundred reservists who responded favorably to the call-up will act as adversaries.
“The objective of this demonstration is to concretely demonstrate how our regiment operates to the Audois (people living in the Aude),” explained the commander of the “3rd” regiment, Colonel Colomban de Poncharra. “Obviously, this is also a significant training opportunity for our paratroopers.” This event also represents an opportunity to finalize the “Scorpion” certification. This transformation has been underway since 2020, characterized by training soldiers that should lead to mastery of new training courses based on new platforms and a unique combat information system.
TIMES and PLACES FOR CARCASSONNE
27th June 13h – 16h Pont Neuf & Bastide Saint Louis & Place General de Gaulle
28th June Event Place General de Gaulle &
The 3rd RPIMa (French Parachute Regiment) is open to meet you in Carcassonne!
After its major open-air maneuver from June 24th to 27th, the 3rd Marine Infantry Parachute Regiment invites you to share two days of exceptional activities on June 27th and 28th, open to all!
🔹Paratrooper demonstration jumps & regimental parade
🔹Capability demonstrations & military equipment discovery
🔹#HYROX sports challenge
🔹Military Valor Cross award ceremony
🔹Big festive evening with the paratroopers and the people of Carcassonne: Top 14 final on a giant screen & dance party
Come and support our soldiers and experience some exciting moments with the 3rd RPIMa!
