6 Intense Military Training Drills To Break The Best Soldiers

Joining the military is no easy feat – it requires unparalleled physical, mental, and emotional strength to withstand the rigors of combat training. While the primary objective of military training is to transform civilians into disciplined, combat-ready soldiers, the process can be nothing short of grueling.

Across the globe, armed forces employ a variety of unconventional training methods designed to push recruits to their absolute limits, both physically and psychologically.

From sleep deprivation to live-fire exercises, these training regimens are specifically engineered to break down even the toughest of individuals, forging them into the elite warriors needed to defend their nations. In this article, we’ll explore 6 Intense Military Training Drills To Break The Best Soldiers.

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1. Para Special Forces “Hell Week” – India

The Indian Special Forces are renowned for their unwavering resilience and uncompromising standards. As part of their probationary period, aspiring special operations soldiers are subjected to a relentless ordeal known as “Hell Week.”

For an entire week, these recruits are deprived of sleep, allowed only minimal rest each day, and forced to engage in a non-stop regimen of running, jogging, crawling, and meal preparation.

The sheer physical and mental exhaustion of this regimen is designed to push the candidates to their absolute limits, weeding out those who lack the fortitude to withstand the demands of special operations.

2. Passing the Live Grenade – China

The People’s Liberation Army of China employs a truly nerve-wracking training exercise to instill discipline and attention to detail among its soldiers. Recruits are required to pass a live grenade, with the pin already pulled, from one individual to the next before the final person throws it into a contained explosion.

This exercise not only tests the soldiers’ composure under extreme pressure but also reinforces the importance of meticulous handling of live ammunition – a critical skill in the heat of battle.

3. National Defence Academy – India

While most military training programs around the world last for 1 or 2 years, India’s National Defence Academy takes a markedly different approach. Recruits are selected straight out of their teenage years and subjected to a grueling 3-year training regimen, followed by an additional year of pre-commission training.

This extended timeline allows the Indian armed forces to mold their young charges into the most disciplined, capable, and well-rounded officers possible, ensuring they are prepared to lead their troops into the most challenging of combat scenarios.

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4. Taking a Live Bullet – Russia

The Russian military is known for its uncompromising approach to training, and one of its most harrowing exercises is the “live bullet” confidence drill. Recruits are required to wear bulletproof vests and then take a live round to the chest, testing their ability to remain calm and return fire despite being struck.

While some soldiers do sustain minor injuries, this training is designed to instill an unshakable sense of courage and composure, equipping them to perform under the most intense combat conditions.

5. 64 km in 20 Hours – United Kingdom

The United Kingdom’s Special Air Service (SAS) is renowned for its elite status, and the selection process for this prestigious unit is nothing short of grueling. As part of the probationary period, recruits are tasked with covering a distance of 64 km within a 20-hour timeframe, while carrying a 30 kg pack and facing the constant threat of capture by police and armed forces.

This test of physical endurance, mental fortitude, and survival skills is designed to identify the most resilient and adaptable candidates, ensuring only the best of the best earn a spot in the SAS.

6. Shirtless Snow Fights – South Korea and China

In the harsh, frigid environments of countries like South Korea and China, military training takes on an extra layer of difficulty. Soldiers in these nations are often required to engage in various physical activities, such as sports and combat drills, while stripped to the waist, even in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius.

This extreme acclimatization process not only builds physical toughness but also instills a sense of mental resilience, as recruits learn to push through the discomfort and disorientation of operating in such challenging conditions.

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Conclusion

The military training regimens explored in this article represent the pinnacle of human physical and mental endurance. From sleep deprivation to live-fire exercises, these programs are designed to break down even the most seasoned individuals, forging them into the elite warriors needed to defend their nations. While the methods may seem extreme, they serve a vital purpose in preparing soldiers for the unforgiving realities of modern combat.

As aspiring members of the armed forces, it’s crucial to understand the level of commitment and sacrifice required to succeed in these training programs. By embracing the challenge and pushing your limits, you’ll not only develop the skills necessary to excel in the military but also cultivate the strength of character that will serve you well throughout your life.

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