Army Unveils Combat Field Test to Strengthen Frontline Readiness
The U.S. Army announced a new Combat Field Test (CFT) to update its physical readiness program, with implementation beginning in April 2026 for active-duty Soldiers in 24 designated combat specialties. The seven-event test must be completed in 30 minutes while wearing the Army Combat Uniform, boots and a brown T‑shirt, and includes runs, push-ups, a sprint, 40‑lb sandbag lifts, 40‑lb water-can carries, a movement drill with high crawl and a quick rush, and a final mile run. It runs alongside the Army Fitness Test, and combat personnel must pass one of each annually (non‑combat Reserve personnel have a diagnostic 365‑day period and may reclassify if unable to meet the standard). The Army will provide prep support through command-led training, Holistic Health resources, and a CFT microsite, underscoring a focus on readiness and lethality on the modern battlefield.