The U.S. Air Force is undertaking a significant transformation of its Basic Military Training (BMT) to ensure that recruits are better equipped to meet the complexities of contemporary warfare. The revamped training program, termed BMT 2.0, is set to launch on October 7, 2025, with an initial enrollment of at least 848 trainees. This overhaul is designed to enhance both physical readiness and overall combat preparedness.
According to Bill Ackman, Commander of the 737th Training Group, the new BMT will be more rigorous, stating, “physically, it’s going to be tougher.” He emphasized that while the training’s intensity will increase, additional resources will be allocated to help recruits develop the necessary resilience, both mentally and physically.
One of the most notable changes is the extension of daily physical training sessions from 60 to 90 minutes. The training will incorporate high-intensity interval workouts, longer running sessions, and exercises such as box jumps, all aimed at improving the recruits’ cardiovascular fitness and strength.
In an effort to foster better teamwork and leadership, squad sizes will be significantly reduced. Instead of the current groups of 40 to 50 trainees, new squads will consist of just 10 to 15 individuals. This change is intended to create closer bonds among recruits, preparing them for the increased demands of military operations.
Additionally, the BMT is designed to position trainees more effectively for the PACER FORGE event, which takes place during the sixth week of training. This tactical simulation, which mirrors real-world combat situations, has been extended from 36 to 57 hours. Enhancements to this segment will include new tasks such as defending air bases against small drones and securing operational sites.
The refresh of training protocols aligns with the Air Force’s recognition of evolving warfare challenges. As modern battlefields demand heightened agility, technological skills, and swift adaptability, the Air Force is committed to preparing its personnel accordingly. The recent deployment of advanced “flyaway kits” at select military installations reflects this shift, aimed at strengthening counter-drone capabilities in response to the rising threat posed by unmanned aerial systems.
Ackman highlighted the urgency for the Air Force to adapt training methodologies to meet the needs of future combat scenarios, stating, “We need to adapt the way that we’re training both airmen and guardians to be useful in the next generation.”
