Reaching new heights

摘要

The heart of the Alps in the northern reaches of Italy provides a dramatic backdrop for the work of the Italian Army's 4th Army Aviation Regiment 'Altair'. The regiment is based at Bolzano Airport, where the Alpine laridscape provides an ideal setting for troops needing to train in a mountainous environment and for pilots honing their flying skills among the high peaks.Since its inception in January 1976, the regiment has trained in the art of combat support and combat logistical service support for ground troops. Now the Altair flight crews are learning to plan and conduct flight missions in conditions that also test the helicopters at the edge of their performance.This complex environment means the aircrews live up to their regiment's motto: "nec aspera nec ardua coela timeo" (I am not afraid of dangerous or stormy skies).