Training Path for Infantry Soldiers in the Canadian Armed Forces: From BMQ to Deployment

Considering a career in the Canadian Armed Forces as an infantry soldier is a significant commitment. This journey involves multiple stages of training measured in months. If you're looking ahead to a potential deployment, here’s an outline of what you can expect from the start of Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) through to your readiness for deployment.

Basic Military Qualification (BMQ): 12 Weeks

The first step in becoming an infantry soldier is BMQ, a comprehensive training program designed to build a solid foundation of military skills. This stage typically lasts for about 12 weeks. During this period, you will be immersed in basic military life and training, including physical fitness, weapon handling, and general military knowledge.

Infantry Qualification (QL3): 14 Weeks

After completing BMQ, the next phase is the Infantry Qualification (QL3), which typically lasts about 14 weeks. This stage focuses on more advanced training specific to infantry roles. You will engage in tactical operations, learn specialized skills, and gain experience in handling weapons and equipment. This phase is crucial as it prepares you for the realities of frontline combat.

Additional Training

Following QL3, you may undergo additional training depending on your specific role. This can include courses on weapons handling, tactical operations, and specialized skills. These additional courses can range from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity and the specific requirements of your role.

Total Time Before Deployment: 6 to 9 Months

From the start of BMQ to being ready for deployment, you might be looking at approximately 6 to 9 months of training. This timeframe can vary depending on factors such as your success in BMT (Basic Military Training), any additional qualifications you pursue, and the operational requirements of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Unit Deployment and Operational Requirements

It is important to note that your deployment timeline can be influenced by various factors, including unit deployments and operational needs. For instance, the infantry units may deploy to Latvia in support of NATO and OP REASSURANCE. However, these missions are often understood as NATO training missions rather than combat engagements. Combat missions abroad are less common, and you can expect a minimum of six months of intensive pre-deployment training if Canada is engaged in such a mission.

Choice of Units

Currently, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) offers several infantry battalions. For non-commissioned members (NCM), you can choose to join the Royal Canadian Regiment (RCR), which is based in Ontario and New Brunswick, or the Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry (PPCLI), which is stationed in Alberta and Manitoba. Alternatively, you can opt for the 22nd Victor Emmanuel Van Doos, which is located in Quebec.

Army Officer Perspective

While serving as an Army Officer in a technical occupation, the path to deployment offers distinct differences. If you as an officer go through Basic Military Qualification (BMQ) as a non-commissioned member (NCM), the training period is approximately 13 weeks. After BMQ, you will be posted to an infantry battalion, where you will undergo further training including DP1 (Defence Preparation I) and various infantry and Army qualifications.

Final Deployment Readiness

Your final readiness for deployment may take about a year from the start of BMQ. However, actual deployment is not guaranteed and depends on a variety of factors, including operational needs and mission requirements.

In summary, the journey from Basic Military Qualification to deployment as an infantry soldier in the Canadian Armed Forces is a lengthy and intensive process. The timeline can vary, but generally, you can expect around 6 to 9 months of training. Deployment readiness is influenced by operational requirements and can extend beyond this period.