216 Parachute Signal Squadron

216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron (216 (Para) Sig Sqn) provides specialist communications support to 16 Air Assault Brigade (16 AA Bde). When the Brigade deploys, 216 (Para) Sig Sqn ensures that it can communicate across the battlefield and with the wider world. This includes fielding signals detachments to the front line and the provision of Tactical and Operational Communications and Information Systems (TacCIS and OpCIS) to the brigade command element.

Because of 16 Air Assault Brigade's contingency role, 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron keeps a number of its men on a high readiness footing, standing by to respond to a crisis anywhere in the world as part of the Air Assault Task Force (AATF).

216 (Para) Sig Sqn soldiers are trained in parachute and helicopter insertion methods. Many members of the squadron undergo All Arms Pre-Parachute Selection (PPS).

The squadron is based at Colchester and is part of the Royal Corps of Signals. It comprises of:

• Alpha Troop
• Bravo Troop
• Charlie Troop
• Support Troop
• MT/LAD Troop

Alpha and Bravo Troops rotate through 'Ops' (delivering HQ comms) and Mission Specific Training (MST) roles. Charlie Troop deploys 'Out Dets' and 'Radio Rebroadcast Detachments'.

216 (Para) Sig Related Media

A member of 216 Signal Squadron uses a Bowman High Frequency radio during a deployment to Afghanistan, 2006.

MOD photo by Cpl Mike Fletcher | © Crown copyright 2007 | used under open government licence