The US Army and British Army have facilitated the world’s first six-way downplane formation at a military parachuting competition in Wiltshire, England.
A downplane is a maneuver typically performed by two people who intentionally steer their canopies into a vertical orientation, causing the parachutes to pull downward rather than glide horizontally.
The concept for the six-man downplane, dubbed “the Hex,” was first introduced in 2023 after experts from both services achieved a five-way downplane called the “Pentragram,” further pushing their skills and coordination amid operational demands and limited training time.
According to the Department of Defense, the Hex in Wiltshire was completed after three jump rehearsals to ensure each requirement was met.
Despite unpredictable weather conditions, the US-UK army team deployed at 14,000 feet (4,267 meters) along with two aerial photographers.
At approximately 9,700 feet (2,957 meters), the personnel aligned vertically in coordination with precise flight parameters, and by 6,500 feet (1,981 meters), the Hex formation was fully executed.
The Golden Knights and Red Devils, elite parachute teams from the US and British Armies, carried out the maneuver together.
“The successful execution of The Hex not only demonstrated advanced canopy piloting and technical skill, but also showcased what’s possible through international military cooperation,” the US defense agency said.
“For both teams, the moment marked more than a display – it marked a place in parachuting history.”
