Planning of the final phase of Airborne Assault is underway. This new standalone building will feature a History of Military Parachuting, an exciting Activity Zone, and a showcase for industry developments in Airborne warfare.

This will also highlight the role of the airborne cavalry, gunners, engineers, signallers, medics, logisticians and padres, as well as the helicopters flown by the Army Air Corps, that make Airborne Forces such an effective fighting force today in the form of the rapid reaction 16 Air Assault Brigade.

This Airborne Warfare Centre promises to be a unique and exciting experience for all the family, which will give a taste of what it's really like to be an Airborne soldier.

Of the many ideas under development, here are some highlights:

History of Military Parachuting

This will chronicle the development of parachuting for military purposes since the earliest drawings of Leonardo da Vinci and the development of the third dimension of Airborne warfare from 1918, plus its spin-offs into sport and display parachuting. Exhibits and film of parachutes, training and equipment will bring the story right up to date and point to future directions.

Go Airborne! Activity Zone

Experience what its like to be a Para. Try out the equipment used in military parachute training; mats, ramps, swings, and harnesses. Jump as part of a stick from a simulated plane fuselage Red light, green light, go! The aim will be to provide a fun introduction to basic training for all ages and abilities, and to encourage visitors to meet the ultimate challenge of the "drop" from the indoor fan trainer tower.

The latest technology will bring the drop experience alive. Swing from harnesses wearing "virtual reality" headsets to give a convincing computer simulation under various conditions: a simple, low level descent; freefall skydiving with the Red Devils; even the high altitude, targeted drop of the Pathfinders.

Other themed displays in the activity area will include samples of the standard uniform and equipment currently used by members of Airborne Forces. An understanding of the sheer bulk and weight of the equipment carried by paratroopers goes a long way to explain the rigours of their training regime and fitness levels.

Men who go to War from the Air

Displays will cover the full spectrum of airborne fighting troops and operations, telling the full story of the many men and women who go to war from the air including: operations in the Second World War and post War theatres; the crucial part played by the Pathfinders; the role of gliders and the Airlanding brigades; the vital supporting Airborne arms and units: and operations and training with our Allies.

A Showcase for Industry

Technology and equipment are advancing with changing military roles and theatres. Airborne forces are an elite rapid reaction force, operating at the cutting edge, supported by defence suppliers who drive that innovation and technological change. Here we showcase present-day developments and preview future thinking.