The Fast Rope Insertion Extraction System, more commonly known as Fast-Roping, is a technique used for deploying troops from helicopters in places where the aircraft cannot touch down, either due to obstacles and terrain, a high threat of incoming fire, or when a speedy insertion is imperative. The system uses a thick 40mm rope, that is rough enough to allow good grip and heavy enough to prevent movement caused by the rotor blast. Fast-roping is faster than rappelling because the rope is not attached to the operator, which allows several people to slide down the same rope simultaneously. Fast-roping requires a good grip and heat resistant gloves, which are often worn over tactical gloves and then removed afterwards.
