Air Assault!

Phase I covers combat assault operations and sling-load procedures. Students learn to inspect, rig, and certify helicopter sling loads — a critical skill for moving equipment by air. The written sling-load test is a major elimination point.

Students also learn helicopter safety, landing zone operations, and pathfinder basics. Aircraft orientation covers the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook, including approach/departure angles, danger areas, and loading procedures.

The academic rigor of Phase I catches many students off guard. The sling-load written exam requires precise knowledge of rigging procedures, weight calculations, and inspection criteria. Studying the manuals cold before arriving is essential.

Phase II takes students to the rappel tower and then to live helicopter rappelling from UH-60 Black Hawks. Students must demonstrate safe rappelling technique from both the tower and aircraft. Refusal to rappel means immediate dismissal.

Cold weather makes the ropes and gloves difficult to manage. Students who have not practiced Swiss seat rigging and basic knot work will struggle under time pressure. Confidence on the tower translates directly to confidence on the aircraft.

Night rappelling adds another layer of difficulty — students must trust their training and technique when they cannot see the ground clearly. Belay procedures must be executed perfectly every time.

The final event and the one that gives Air Assault School its reputation: "The Ten Toughest Days in the Army." The 12-mile ruck march with a 35-pound minimum load must be completed in 3 hours or less.

Students who have survived everything else often fall here due to blisters, heat, or simply running out of gas. The route at Fort Campbell is notoriously hilly, and the pace required to finish under three hours is punishing.

Progressive ruck training in the weeks before the course is non-negotiable. Students who show up without putting serious miles under a heavy pack will not make the time standard. Foot care and pacing strategy are just as important as raw fitness.

Winter at Campbell is cold and wet. Temperatures regularly drop below freezing, and students spend hours waiting at the rappel tower in the wind. Cold hands affect grip strength on the rappel rope — glove inserts are essential.

Spring brings the best temperatures for physical events. The 12-mile ruck march is most comfortable in March-April. However, Tennessee spring storms can delay rappel tower and sling-load training.

Summer is the hardest season for Air Assault. The 12-mile ruck march in 90°F heat with full kit produces the most heat casualties of any season. Hydration discipline must start days before the event.

Fall is the best time for Air Assault School. Temperatures are ideal for both physical events and tower training. The 12-mile ruck march in cool fall weather has the highest completion rates of any season.