Norway’s Jegertroppen, the world’s first all-female special forces training program, has proven to be a major success, providing highly trained female soldiers capable of gathering intelligence and operating in conservative societies.
The world’s first all-female special forces training program, known as Jegertroppen, was established in Norway in 2014. It was created in response to the operational need for highly trained female soldiers who could gather intelligence and interact with women and children in conservative societies during deployments, as exemplified by the war in Afghanistan. What started as an experimental program has become a major success, with over 300 women applying in the first year and approximately a dozen recruits passing the rigorous training annually. The training includes physically and mentally demanding tasks such as long marches, minimal rest, and limited food and water during “hell week.” The recruits also engage in combat training, offensive driving, and urban ambush scenarios. While some concerns have been raised about women serving in combat roles, the Norwegian military emphasizes providing realistic and comprehensive training to prepare the women for their roles.
