first female paratrooper who passed selection process. Due to ongoing COVID-19 outbreak in Japan, the brigade has conducted protective measures by letting its paratroopers wear facemasks and limiting the presence of spectators with its first exercise on January 13, 2021. Scandals Firearms handling In 1994, Colonel Yasunobu Hideshima was arrested by JGSDF military police officers for violating both the Self-Defense Forces Law and the Firearm and Sword Control Law when he allowed three of his friends to use JGSDF firearms without prior authorization. Lieutenant Colonels Yoshiharu Amano and Michihiko Suzuki were suspended for 20 days for neglect of duty. Iraq War Another scandal emerged from within the unit when a 38-year-old 1st Airborne Brigade paratrooper was arrested in Inzai, Chiba Prefecture for shoplifting. He admitted to officers that he did it to demonstrate that he was serious in his effort to avoid deployment to Iraq. When JGSDF officials heard about this, they told press officials that they require the consent of the troopers and their relatives. Otherwise, they would not be deployed. The Iraq deployment had caused a national debate in Japan, and a new public consensus was necessary for the military to develop a modern role and structure. Assault A brigade paratrooper was disciplined for bringing a lighter to the dorms at Camp Narashino when it was used to burn the feet of his two juniors. Requirements Before joining the 1st Airborne Brigade, all potential candidates must be able to pass the following requirements: Join the Brigade on or under 28 if a private; otherwise NCOs (usually Sergeants) must join on or under 36 years of age. Have the standard weight and height of 49 kg and 161 cm with chest measurements at 78.5 cm Lung capacity of at least 3,200 cm3 or more Have no criminal record Have the following points from his time in the JGSDF: 5 classes or more, 1st method above various eye minimum of 45 points Airborne system has been above each minimum of 60 points of 5 items such as suspension stopping jump from aircraft. Must be able to lift objects at 30 kg, under, and above for 50 s Blood pressure must be at 140mmHg~100mmHg and 90mmHg to candidates who are 34 years old or less. Ranger qualification 1AB paratroopers receive ranger qualification at part of their training. The Ranger badge is highly sought by active duty SDF personnel. Structure The brigade's