Two soldiers injured during parachute display training in Kildare 

The incident involved two soldiers on a training exercise. File picture

An investigation has been launched after two soldiers were injured during a parachute training exercise in Kildare.

The incident happened at around 5pm.

A source has said the two were injured after jumping out of an army helicopter, and then plunged to the ground.

Their injuries are not life-threatening but it is understood one of the soldiers broke a thigh bone.

Both men were transferred to a Dublin hospital shortly after the incident.

They were taking part in training at the Defence Forces Training Centre in the Curragh Camp when the incident happened.

A spokesperson said: "The Defence Forces Press Office can confirm that two personnel sustained injuries on landing during routine parachute display team training today in the Defence Forces Training Centre. The injuries sustained were non-life threatening and both personnel were transferred to hospital by Defence Forces Ambulance and are in a stable condition. 

"The Defence Forces parachute display team comprises of members from all ranks and services of the Defence Forces, permanent and reserve. An investigation is ongoing as per DF standard operational procedures."

This is the second incident in just over a year involving Defence Forces parachutists.

In February last year, Acting Sergeant Major Declan O'Connell died after his parachute malfunctioned while he was off duty and on holiday in Spain.

The tragic incident occurred when the 54-year-old soldier had been undertaking a civilian parachute instructors' course in Spain.

His home unit was the Cadet School, Military College in the Defence Forces Training Centre in the Curragh Camp.