[5] On March 4, 2020, the brigade recruited Sergeant Reina Hashiba [Wikidata], the first female paratrooper who passed selection process.

[11][12] 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.

[15] Another scandal emerged from within the unit when a 38-year-old 1st Airborne Brigade paratrooper was arrested in Inzai, Chiba Prefecture for shoplifting.

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.

[16] 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.

[17] Before joining the 1st Airborne Brigade, all potential candidates must be able to pass the following requirements:[citation needed] 1AB paratroopers receive ranger qualification at part of their training.