What Is Army Special Forces Training Like

The U.S. Army Special Forces, also known as the Green Berets, is an elite fighting force that conducts unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, direct action, and special reconnaissance. To become a member of this prestigious unit, one must undergo some of the most rigorous and challenging training in the world.

Army Special Forces training, also known as the Qualification Course (QC), is designed to push candidates to their limits, testing their physical and mental toughness, as well as their ability to work well under pressure and in a team environment. The training is notoriously grueling, with a dropout rate of around 70-80%. Those who do make it through are considered among the best of the best.

Preparation for Army Special Forces Training

Before even applying to the Special Forces, candidates must meet certain requirements, including being a U.S. citizen, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and scoring well on the Army's physical fitness test. They must also have a clean record and be able to pass a background check.

Once these requirements are met, candidates can begin preparing themselves for the challenges of Special Forces training. This typically involves intense physical training, as well as studying the basics of unconventional warfare and foreign languages.

Physical Preparation

Physical preparation is a critical component of Special Forces training. Candidates must be in top physical condition, with a strong emphasis on cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance, and flexibility.

A typical day for a candidate preparing for Special Forces training might include:

• A 5-mile run in the morning
• A series of push-ups, sit-ups, and other strength training exercises
• A ruck march (hike) with a heavy backpack
• Swimming and water survival training
• Obstacle course training

The Qualification Course (QC)

The Qualification Course (QC) is the initial training course for Special Forces candidates. It is divided into several phases, each designed to test the candidate's physical and mental abilities.

The phases of the QC include:

• Phase 1: Candidate Phase - This phase is designed to assess the candidate's physical and mental abilities. It includes a series of tests and evaluations, including a 2-mile run, a 30-foot rope climb, and a swim test.
• Phase 2: Individual Training Phase - In this phase, candidates learn the basics of unconventional warfare, including marksmanship, first aid, and map reading.
• Phase 3: Small Unit Tactics Phase - Candidates learn how to work in a team environment, including how to conduct patrols, ambushes, and raids.
• Phase 4: Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Phase - Candidates learn how to survive in hostile environments, including how to evade capture, resist interrogation, and escape from captivity.
• Phase 5: Language Training Phase - Candidates learn a foreign language, which is critical for their future missions.

Robin Sage Training Exercise

The Robin Sage training exercise is a final test of the candidate's skills and abilities. It is a simulated unconventional warfare exercise that takes place in a realistic environment.

During the exercise, candidates are divided into teams and must conduct a series of missions, including reconnaissance, sabotage, and raids. They are also tested on their ability to work with indigenous forces and conduct foreign internal defense.

Advanced Training

After completing the QC, Special Forces soldiers attend advanced training courses, which include:

• Advanced Language Training - Soldiers learn more advanced language skills, including reading, writing, and speaking.
• Advanced Unconventional Warfare Training - Soldiers learn more advanced skills in unconventional warfare, including how to conduct guerrilla warfare and train indigenous forces.
• Specialized Skills Training - Soldiers learn specialized skills, such as parachute training, combat diving, and sniper training.

Continuing Education

Special Forces soldiers are required to continue their education throughout their careers. This includes attending advanced training courses, as well as participating in professional development opportunities.

Gallery of Army Special Forces Training

Army Special Forces Training Gallery

Conclusion

Army Special Forces training is some of the most challenging and rigorous training in the world. It is designed to push candidates to their limits, testing their physical and mental toughness, as well as their ability to work well under pressure and in a team environment.

Those who make it through the training are considered among the best of the best, and are prepared to conduct a variety of missions, including unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, direct action, and special reconnaissance.

We hope this article has provided you with a better understanding of what Army Special Forces training is like. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to ask.

What do you think it takes to be a successful Special Forces soldier? Share your thoughts in the comments below!