What is a primary use of helicopterborne patrols?

Helicopterborne patrols are primarily utilized for inserting or extracting foot patrols due to their ability to rapidly deploy troops into specific areas that may be difficult to access by ground transportation. This capability allows for quicker response times in dynamic operational environments. When foot patrols are inserted into an area, it enables them to conduct missions such as reconnaissance, security missions, or other tactical operations effectively. Similarly, when extraction is necessary, helicopterborne patrols can swiftly retrieve troops from the field, minimizing their exposure to potential threats and reducing the time spent in potentially hazardous zones.

While reconnaissance is a significant task that helicopter operations can assist with, and the supply of food and equipment is a relevant function, these activities are not the primary purpose of helicopterborne patrols. Likewise, mountain rescue is a specialized operation that may utilize helicopters, but it is not the main focus when considering general helicopterborne patrols. The essential role of inserting and extracting foot patrols distinguishes this function as the primary use in a military context.