Hand-to-Hand Combat Training in Military

Hello all, I was wondering which military branch emphasises hand-to-hand combat training the most? I'm interested in this aspect of military training and trying to decide on a branch.

Hello! Each branch of the United States military has its own robust training program and every branch incorporates hand-to-hand combat as a key aspect of the training regimen. It's important to note that the emphasis and the techniques differ between branches, though. Here are the specifics for each:

1. The Army utilizes the Modern Army Combatives Program, which emphasizes ground fighting techniques, much like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, to teach soldiers to gain dominant positions and use submission holds.

2. The Marine Corps uses the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP), renowned to be one of the most comprehensive combat systems because of its combination of martial arts techniques. Included in their techniques are grappling, kicking, punching, knife techniques, rifle and bayonet techniques, among others.

3. The Air Force uses a method known as the Battlefield Airmen Physical Training (BAPT) program, which implements some hand-to-hand combat skills. However, it's fair to say less emphasis is placed on hand-to-hand combat compared to other branches.

4. The Navy uses the Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling series focused mainly on fitness, with self-defence as a component within a broader focus on overall combat readiness.

5. As for the Coast Guard, their training includes the basics of unarmed combat. However, the largest emphasis is on seaman skills, endurance, and defense tactics.

If your interest is inclined more towards intensive hand-to-hand combat training, considering the above comparison, the Marine Corps could be a valuable option for you, particularly due to their comprehensive MCMAP program.

However, make sure to consider other factors too, like your career goals in the military and which branch would best align with those. It's best to talk these aspects over with a recruiter or a trusted individual with military experience who can give you personalized advice.