Quote:
Originally Posted by swaghauler
As for military operations on mountain bikes, you'd need to ask the Finns. as far as I know, Finland had her ski troops riding bikes in the summer since the 90s. They were a functional part of finland's TO&E.
|
Finnish army has been using bikes since 1920s.
Actually, we don’t have ski troops. Cross-country skiing is basic military skill and every soldier, sailor or airmen should master this skill.
There universal male conscription in Finland. When you’re 18 years old there is mandatory draft board meeting and they will inform what kind off skills you should have before entering military service. All conscripts should be fit and able to swim, ride bike and ski.
During basic training those who are unfit or unable to swim, ride bikes or ski are singled out and they will receive extra training. Needles to say that its not good if your sergeant thinks that you are “incompetent weakling” and this extra training is both PT and “attitude adjustment”.
Conscripts won’t receive basic training on how to ski or how to ride bike. Training emphasizes how to use skis or your bicycle in military context. This training includes bicycle marching and action drills to air raids and ambushes when you are skiing or riding bike.
Finnish military don’t use mountain bikes. Armed forces use military bikes that are rugged utility bicycles.
Since 1970s there have been two types units - motorized and static. Static units are usually some kind of logistic units, sea forts or force protection units. All units can use bikes and skis when needed.