Airborne operations refer to military missions that involve troops being deployed from aircraft to land on the ground, often using parachutes. This method allows for rapid insertion into areas that may be difficult to access by traditional means, enabling forces to quickly establish a presence or conduct surprise attacks. These operations can include various tasks, such as reconnaissance, securing key locations, or supporting ground forces. They are typically conducted by specialized units, such as the U.S. Army's 82nd Airborne Division, which are trained to operate effectively in diverse environments immediately after landing.