Hand-to-Hand Combat Training in the U.S. Military: The Reality and Importance
Hand-to-Hand Combat Training in the U.S. Military: The Reality and Importance
Hand-to-hand combat is a critical skill that many military personnel are expected to possess, especially in life-or-death situations. In this article, we will explore the different aspects of hand-to-hand combat training in the U.S. military, including its importance, frequency, and effectiveness.
The Extent of Hand-to-Hand Combat Training
It is a well-known fact that the U.S. military trains its members in hand-to-hand combat to prepare them for unforeseen circumstances. However, the extent of this training can vary widely, depending on the role and the circumstances.
For most U.S. soldiers, the training is limited. The average military member may receive around 8 hours of training on the subject. This minimal training may be supplemented by martial arts through voluntary after-hour classes offered at some bases. The quality of these classes and the instructors can vary, especially in overseas locations where there are fewer dependents and outsiders.
Specialized Training for Specific Roles
Some specific roles within the U.S. military, such as pilots and certain special operations forces (SFOS), receive more comprehensive hand-to-hand combat training. These individuals are taught to rely on martial skills in situations where their primary weapons may not be available, such as when aircraft, helicopters, or vehicles are out of reach. This training is critical for these personnel, as it significantly increases their chances of survival in extreme conditions.
Modern Battlefield Realities
The modern battlefield is vastly different from what it was a few decades ago. Soldiers today are trained to engage enemies at long distances using advanced rifles and other weapons. Modern rifles are highly versatile, making it extremely unlikely for soldiers to be engaged in close-quarters combat. Instead, hand-to-hand combat training is focused on disarming an enemy or using a melee weapon, but these skills are not high on the priority list during basic training.
Basic training does include some lessons on close-quarters combat (CQB) with firearms, but this training is mostly conducted in drills after the intense initial training period. Other essential skills such as marksmanship, small unit tactics, and communication take precedence over hand-to-hand combat training in the modern military environment.
The Role of Martial Arts
Martial arts are sometimes taught at military bases, but these classes are typically voluntary and offered after hours. The styles and instructors can vary greatly depending on the location and the personnel involved. In many cases, the instructors are volunteers and may not receive compensation. The overall quality of these classes can be inconsistent, especially in overseas locations.
Overseas bases often have stricter and more rigorous training environments due to the nature of the volunteer population and the physical fitness required. However, the quality and availability of these classes can still be a matter of chance.
Conclusion
While hand-to-hand combat training in the U.S. military is an important aspect of preparing soldiers for extreme situations, the reality is that it is not a crucial focus of the training. Most soldiers receive only minimal training, while specialized units receive more in-depth instruction. The modern battlefield is designed around long-range engagements, making hand-to-hand combat a skill that is used very infrequently, if at all.