The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne), known as the “Spartans,” was the Army’s only airborne brigade stationed in Alaska. Activated in 2005, the brigade deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan before being reflagged in 2022 as part of the reactivation of the 11th Airborne Division. Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne).
The 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division was activated on 16 July 2005 at Fort Richardson, Alaska (later Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson). As part of the Army’s modular transformation, it was built as a parachute-qualified infantry brigade uniquely stationed in the Arctic. Nicknamed the “Spartan Brigade,” its mission was to provide rapid-deployment airborne combat power for global contingency operations, with special focus on Arctic, Pacific, and high-altitude environments.
Combat Deployments
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Iraq (2006–2007): Deployed to northern Iraq, conducting counterinsurgency operations and partnering with Iraqi Security Forces.
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Afghanistan (2009–2010): Fought in Regional Command–East, operating in rugged terrain and along the Afghanistan–Pakistan border.
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Afghanistan (2011–2012): Conducted counterinsurgency and stability missions, training Afghan forces while maintaining combat operations in contested provinces.
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Later Deployments: Continued rotations to Afghanistan, transitioning into advisory missions as U.S. forces reduced their footprint.
Structure
The Spartan Brigade consisted of:
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Airborne Infantry Battalions
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Field Artillery Battalion
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Cavalry Squadron
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Special Troops Battalion
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Brigade Support Battalion
Each element was trained for parachute operations, making it a fully airborne-capable brigade.
Inactivation & Transition to 11th Airborne Division
On 6 June 2022, the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne) was reflagged as part of the reactivation of the 11th Airborne Division in Alaska. This historic change unified all Army forces in Alaska under an airborne identity, reestablishing the “Arctic Angels” of the 11th Airborne. The Spartan Brigade’s lineage was formally closed, but its Soldiers and equipment became part of the reborn 11th Airborne Division, ensuring its airborne mission continues under a new flag.
Identity & Legacy
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Nickname: “Spartans”
- Unique Distinction: Only airborne brigade permanently stationed in Alaska, later absorbed into the reactivated 11th Airborne Division
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Decorations: Meritorious Unit Commendations and campaign streamers from Iraq and Afghanistan
Enduring Significance
The 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne) embodied the spirit of airborne adaptability in the Arctic and combat zones alike. Though reflagged into the 11th Airborne Division, its Soldiers and traditions remain part of one of the most unique airborne lineages in modern Army history.
Airborne Apparel Company is proud to offer reproductions and unique designs that celebrate the legacy of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division (Airborne).