Paratroopers are training to survive and fight in hot and humid jungle conditions.

A Company, 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment - which is based in Colchester - is battling vegetation and wildlife on Exercise Mayan Warrior.

The soldiers are in the middle of a six week training programme in Belize where they have lived in the jungle for extended periods learning how to look after themselves and their equipment in alien conditions.

Paratroopers have to be ready to operate in any environment at short notice as part of the Air Assault Task Force.

Commanding officer Major Mike Thwaite said: “The jungle is an incredibly demanding environment and it’s important we’re familiar with it.

“By the nature of our role we could find ourselves deployed on operations in the jungle at a moment’s notice. This training gives us credit in the bank.

“We’re out on our own in the jungle for 26 days straight, which is a real test of our soldiers’ ability to live and operate with minimal logistic or medical support.

“It’s about their personal administration and the low-level tactical awareness and skills.”