Special Forces first to use new parachute system

Special Forces soldiers on Fort Bragg are the first to use a new parachute system that promises to give them greater mobility and the ability to carry heavier loads. The 3rd Special Forces Group is the first unit to start fielding the new RA-1 parachute, which can be used for free fall and static line operations. Officials with the Green Beret unit said they started fielding the parachutes last fall and have continued to phase them into use. Both paratroopers and riggers have started using the new equipment, which is eventually meant to replace the MC-4 parachute