MCO 3120.11A — Marine Corps Parachuting Policy And Program Administration

MCO 3120.11A governs Marine Corps parachute operations, training, equipment, qualifications, and related incentive pay.

Search MCO 3120.11A

  • Publication number: MCO 3120.11A
  • Title: MARINE CORPS PARACHUTING POLICY AND PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
  • Date: 17 Dec 2014
  • Proponent: 03000 Operations & Readiness
  • Status: Current

View MCO 3120.11A on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses parachutist billets, qualification and refresher training, hazardous duty incentive pay, drop zones, and operational participation. It requires controls for authorized equipment, parachute packing, paraloft facilities, medical considerations, and reporting.

Topics covered

  • Parachutist hazardous duty incentive pay
  • Parachutist qualification requirements
  • Proficiency and refresher training
  • Drop zones
  • Parachute packing requirements
  • Paraloft facilities
  • Personnel tandem parachute operations

Questions and answers

Which Marine Corps units may possess and maintain parachute equipment?

Only Marine Corps units and activities with an authorized allowance of parachute equipment on their Table of Equipment (T/E) are authorized to possess and maintain parachute equipment or to conduct parachute operations. (paragraph 2)

What parachute equipment is authorized for Marine Corps military parachuting?

Only equipment found in reference (y) and in appropriate Marine Corps stock lists is authorized for use by Marine Corps personnel in military parachuting. (paragraph 3)

Can personally-owned parachutes be used during Marine Corps parachute operations?

The use of personally-owned parachutes during Marine Corps parachute operations is prohibited. (paragraph 4)

Who is authorized to pack, maintain, and store parachute equipment?

Except where directed in this Order, only qualified and current parachute riggers with the PMOS 0451 or approved Marine Corps civilian parachute riggers are authorized to pack, maintain, and store parachute equipment in accordance with technical manuals for that specific parachute equipment. (paragraph 5)

What training limits apply to participation in Marine Corps parachute operations?

Only DoD personnel who successfully complete Marine Corps-approved parachuting courses of instruction may participate in Marine Corps parachute operations or training, and participation is limited to the duties and type of operation and equipment for which the individual is qualified. (paragraph 1-2)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about MCO 3120.11A