US 173rd Airborne Brigade strengthens MW Skills at Small Unit Leaders Course

The NATO Mountain Warfare Centre of Excellence (NATO MW COE) successfully hosted the Small Unit Leaders Course (SULC) from 7 to 18 April 2025, welcoming 20 participants from the U.S. Army’s 173rd Airborne Brigade based in Vicenza, Italy.

Over the two-week period, the course provided intensive training aimed at enhancing leadership, decision-making, and operational effectiveness in mountainous terrain. Designed specifically for junior leaders, SULC focuses on tactical planning, team coordination, and mission execution under challenging environmental conditions.

Participants engaged in a variety of practical field exercises, navigation tasks, and leadership scenarios, developing their adaptability and resilience in demanding alpine settings. The curriculum also emphasized interoperability within NATO, fostering collaboration between partner nations and strengthening collective capabilities in mountain warfare operations.

The 173rd Airborne Brigade, known for its rapid deployment capabilities and experience in complex terrain, gained valuable expertise that will enhance their readiness for missions in high-altitude environments.

The NATO MW COE continues to play a key role in advancing specialized training and doctrine for mountain warfare, supporting the development of agile, capable leaders prepared to operate in some of the most difficult terrain on Earth.