Go-ahead to the English SAS for raids by "high altitude launch with delayed opening" procedure (High Altitude Low Opening - HALO) in enemy areas. London has authorized such covert operations against terrorists in Syria and Iraq.
The HALO procedure is typical of special departments for the infiltration of special departments beyond enemy lines. The launch procedure, performed from altitudes close to ten thousand meters, effectively cancels the acoustic detection. The SAS and the commandos of the Special Boat Service they will use the new C-17 of the RAF for what has already been called the "SAS's air-troop".
The integration of C-17 has just ended: they will replace the C-130. The latter are able to carry 100 perfectly equipped paratroopers. The C-17, in addition to launching small vehicles, heavy machine guns and mortars, doubles the number of commandos on board. The C-17 will allow the SAS, through HALO procedure, to land furtively during the night, in areas close to the targets.
"Many operations in Iraq and Afghanistan have been thwarted by the noise of incoming helicopters. This allowed the hostile forces to organize a defense. Low-open assaults cancel this problem ".
A year ago, US special forces attempted an attack on the Raqqa stronghold to save the hostages, but were repulsed by defenders, alerted by the noise of helicopters.
(photo: USMC)
