Introduction
The series chronicles the process a group of individuals follow through selection and training for the British Army’s infamous Parachute Regiment.
Also known as or stylised as PARA Platoon, Para Platoon: Earning the Maroon Beret, and PARA Platoon – Ready for Anything.



Outline
For the first time in over 30 years, cameras have been allowed behind the scenes to reveal the tension and drama as young, raw recruits attempt to pass the toughest course in Britain’s Armed Forces.
Granted unique access by the UK’s Ministry of Defence, PARA Platoon shows what it takes to pass the elite Parachute Regiment’s 28-week training course. Only a few would make it to the end of seven gruelling months and earn the right to wear the famous maroon beret of airborne forces.
This eight part documentary series follows the entire story of one group of hopeful paratroopers from their initial assessment to their final passing out parade.
It has earned the reputation as one of the toughest courses in the British Army. And it pushes recruits to the very limits of their physical and mental endurance – and beyond. And any young man hoping to join The Parachute Regiment must first demonstrate they have the determination and robustness to pass this gruelling seven month course – including its legendary test week, P Company.
With exclusive access, cameras go behind the scenes to follow a platoon of young men through the hardest challenge of their lives. And before they can jump into battle, they must also pass the combat parachute course. Not all will become airborne soldiers. Who will earn the maroon beret of The Parachute Regiment and live up to its motto: Ready for Anything.
Para Platoon Series
Production & Filming Details
- Narrator(s):
- Mario Chrisostomou.
- Director(s):
- Paul Condon.
- Producer(s):
- Nick Pollard.
- Mark Popescu.
- Paul Condon.
- Writer(s):
- Music:
- Cinematography:
- Editor(s):
- Production:
- Signature Entertainment.
- Distributor(s):
- FORCES TV.
- Release Date: 31 October 2014.
- Rating: 16+.
- Running Time: 25 minutes.
- Country: UK.
- Language: English.