2-224th supports Maryland National Guard with special patrol insertion/extraction training

Virginia Guard aviators from the 2-224th Battalion Aviation assist Maryland National Guard Soldiers from C Troop 1/158th Cavalry with special patrol insertion/extraction training. SPIE was developed to rapidly insert and/or extract reconnaissance patrols from areas that do not permit helicopters to land. Generally, the SPIE rope is lowered into the pickup area from a hovering helicopter. Patrol personnel, each wearing a harness with an attached carabineer, hook up to a D-ring inserted in the SPIE rope. The helicopter lifts vertically from an extract zone until the rope and personnel are clear of obstructions, then proceeds in forward flight to a secure insert zone.