Pathfinder Company (Malaysia)

The Pathfinder Company (Parachute) was originally formed in 1995 as Platun Pandura () to fulfil the need for an infiltration team capable of entering operational areas and providing navigation assistance and movement control for the main airborne forces. The unit was modelled after the Pathfinder Platoon of the British Army, which inspired its tactics and organisational structure. The Pandura Company's capabilities have continued to grow, with a significant extension of its skill set on 11 August 2021. The unit was trained to parachute into the sea, swim to shore, and infiltrate enemy lines from the coastline, further enhancing its versatility in special operations. In present-day operations, the Pandura Company is influenced by and operates similarly to the U.S. Marine Corps Force Recon, emphasising versatility, deep reconnaissance, and high-value target elimination behind enemy lines. == Etymology ==

The term 'Pandura' is an abbreviation of the Malay word 'Pandu Arah Udara', which translates directly to 'Pathfinder'. == Roles ==

Initially, the Pandura Platoon's role was to provide 10 PARA BDE with navigation assistance and movement control for drops, flight paths, and landing in operational areas. The unit was tasked with studying, selecting, and marking out drop zones (DZ), landing zones (LZ), landing sites (LS), and plane landing points. Pandura paratroopers would infiltrate target areas, ensure their safety, and provide navigation support to enable larger airborne forces to land as a cohesive unit rather than scattered into smaller groups. Additionally, they were capable of directing artillery, aircraft, and naval gun fire support (NGF) during operations. Over time, other combat elements, such as snipers and combat intelligence were incorporated into the Pandura Platoon, leading to its expansion into a full company. Pandura paratroopers could operate as sniper teams while also relaying critical information to aircraft pilots during operations. Due to their elite status, Pandura paratroopers were often selected to serve as instructors, teaching jungle survival skills and combat tactics to both local and international military units. The unit's close cooperation with the 10th Squadron (Parachute), Royal Army Engineers Regiment (The army's airborne sapper unit) also saw them take responsibility for overseeing the Para Integrated All Weather Multi Mission Range (PIAW), a shooting range managed by 10 PARA BDE. == Formations ==

Because the Pandura unit is small and exclusive, much of its detailed operations remain classified. However, some platoons within the company are more well-known to the general public due to their specialised roles and high-profile operations. The most notable platoons include: == Training ==

The new members of the 10 PARA BDE's Pandura Company were chosen based on combat qualifications and parachute insertion skills, including static line and free fall. Pandura paratroopers must also be able to operate visual aids and electronic equipment, as well as provide ground-to-air communication and drive various off-road vehicles such as all-terrain vehicles and motocross. They must be able to interpret and value the weather, wind direction, conditions, and cloud height, as well as the visibility and safety of the landing area, in real time. Preparatory course — unit level (4 weeks) As a preparation for the actual pathfinder course conducted by the Special Warfare Training Centre (SWTC), the Pandura Company (Para) held a month of their own Pandura Course for the candidates. The following conditions must be met in order to receive the Pathfinder badge: • Pass basic parachute course • Pass pathfinder course Basic free fall course (6 weeks) Military free fall is the Pandura Company's specialty, which sets them apart from the other units in the 10 PARA BDE. This course is offered by SWTC and lasts 6 weeks. Advanced training Among the advanced training options available to Pandura Company paratroopers are: • Advanced free fall (HAHO/HALO) • Special reconnaissance • Sniper • Close air support • Joint terminal attack controller == Killed in the line of duty ==

Aside from free-fall equipment, the Pandura paratroopers relied on vital navigation systems such as the Operational Parachutist Navigational System (OPANAS) and the Global Positioning System (GPS). They also use ground-to-air communication to communicate with aircraft for airborne force drops. The Pandura paratroopers carry the same combat equipment as the other 10 PARA BDE's infantry units, with the exception of the sniper team. == References ==