Parachute_usage_in_combat_operations_and_Sea_of_Gliders

The use of parachutes in combat operations is complex and subject to intricate rules of engagement and international laws. Understanding these rules is crucial for troops and commanders to ensure compliance with both military and humanitarian standards.

Can You Fire at an Enemy Coming Down from a parachute?

The legality of firing at an enemy coming down from a parachute depends on various factors, primarily the circumstances of the engagement. Below are the key scenarios to consider:

Crashing Aircraft

In the event an enemy is parachuting from a crashing aircraft, according to the laws of war, you cannot shoot him. This is due to the principle of distinction, which prohibits attacks against civilians unless they are directly participating in hostilities.

Parachute insertion into battle

When the parachutist is deployed into battle from a functional aircraft, they become a valid military target. This is similar to dealing with infantry landing from helicopters or Marines from landing craft. The quick deployment and low altitude of parachutes (often around 500 feet) reflect the urgency and immediate engagement needed in combat scenarios.

Airborne Personnel Under Geneva Convention

Individuals parachuting into combat zones are generally considered non-combatants until they start using their weapons. According to the Geneva Convention, a person armed and firing on the way down can be targeted. This principle is reinforced in briefings on the UCMJ (United States Code of Military Justice) and related Articles of the Geneva Convention.

Comparing Deployment Methods

Paratroopers using parachutes are in an analogous situation to those deploying by helicopter or amphibious landings. All are coming to the fight through different methods of transportation. However, this is distinctly different from an aircrew or troops in a sinking ship who have been rendered hors de combat (rendered out of the fight).

International Law and Airborne Operations

International law has some unique aspects concerning airborne forces. An airman landing from a damaged, disabled, or destroyed aircraft is still a non-combatant and cannot be shot at. However, once they land, they become a combatant and are fair game. Similarly, parachute troops are always considered combatants and can be targeted during their descent.

Historical Context

In World War II, there were instances where aircrew had to bail out from shot-up aircraft and follow their paratroopers. In such scenarios, only some of the troops could be legally targeted. The Germans, for example, could only shoot at a portion of the personnel bailing out, adhering to the principles of international law at the time.

Conclusion

The legality of engaging parachuting enemies significantly changes based on whether they are descending from a crashing or operational aircraft. While non-combatants when in the air, once they land, they become combatants and can be targeted. Understanding these nuances is critical for troops and commanders, ensuring compliance with both military and humanitarian standards.