Airborne Forces

Our Airborne Forces collection is an extensive display telling the story of the use of airborne troops from their inception in World War Two to the present day.

The display covers both the development of glider-based assault, which was used extensively in World War Two, and the use of paratroopers, from their role in tactical assaults through to their deployment as part of strategic offensives.

The collection includes representation of all the main glider types used in World War Two with original sections of Hotspur and Horsa gliders, a complete Hadrian fuselage and the mock-up of a Hamilcar nose section. There is also an extensive range of artefacts telling the story of the Glider Pilot Regiment and those who were transported to battle in gliders, including the local regiment the Kings Own Scottish Borderers.

The Parachute Regiment remains at the core of our capabilities to deploy via parachute; the history of the regiment is covered from inception through to the present day, and the major operations in which they have been involved. The collection includes weaponry, uniform, parachutes and parachuting equipment alongside photographs and memorabilia which help bring the story of the men and their units to life.