Alpine Training in the Austrian Armed Forces
The Austrian Armed Forces highly value the ability of soldiers and troops to fight in mountainous terrain. The challenging alpine training starts with basic troop training for recruits and officer cadets, the so-called Einjährig-Freiwillige (one-year-volunteers). In subsequent courses, military personnel can furthermore qualify for the internationally recognized and highly sought-after title of a Heeresbergführer (Military Alpine Guide).
Alpine Survival
The ultimate goal of every alpine training in the Army is enabling Austrian soldiers to survive in the mountains. Soldiers can only successfully accomplish their missions there if they manage to cope with the harsh and often dangerous climate and the rough terrain.
Competence Centre in Salzburg
Training includes, above all, travelling on ski and on snowshoes, practical avalanche and terrain knowledge and constructing emergency shelters. Soldiers also learn how to quickly locate and rescue victims of avalanches. The Jägerschule in Saalfelden forms the competence centre for alpine training as well as for mountain and winter combat.
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Knowing your ropes in the mountains is of great importance...
...so adequate training starts at the recruit stage.