Introduction to BCT2

According to the USAFA website, part two of Cadet Basic Training (BCT) is in Jacks Valley where the basic cadets assemble and reside. BCT part two includes outdoor challenges such as the assault course, obstacle course, CATM, CBRNE, and Confidence Course.  

BCT is a six-week program to guide the transformation of new cadets, also known as basic cadets, from being civilians to USAFA cadets prepared to enter a four-year officer commissioning program.  

With a commitment to pushing physical, emotional, and mental limits, basic cadets will develop into highly disciplined, physically fit fourth-class cadets (freshman), ready to be accepted into the Cadet Wing. BCT is split into two distinct phases, first BCT and second BCT.  

Second BCT expands upon the military and physical preparation of first BCT, taking cadets to Jacks Valley, a 3,300-acre rural training area on Academy grounds. Second BCT also introduces cadets to small-unit tactics and firearms.  

  

The BCT2 courses that WebGuy covers are: 

Obstacle Course - The Obstacle Course will teach and require basic cadets to negotiate physically challenging obstacles. It is designed to assess their physical fitness, agility, and confidence and increase awareness of personal capabilities. 

The Confidence Course – The Confidence Course develops and assesses basic cadets' self-confidence and physical capabilities by guiding them, as individuals and teams, through a selected group of 15 obstacles that vary in height and difficulty. The course requires all basic cadets to demonstrate physical dexterity, teamwork, and cohesion to achieve successful outcomes. 

The Assault Course - The Assault Course teaches hand-to-hand combat skills and rifle fighting techniques while allowing basic cadets to practice these elements in control. The course is designed to assess basic cadets' mental and physical stamina and confidence. 

Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear defense (CBRNE) – CBRNE will help prepare the Basics to face chemical warfare and know how to deal with various types of weaponry. 

Combat Arms Training and Maintenance (CATM) – The course trains basic cadets on the nomenclature, assembly/disassembly, and safe operation of the M-4 carbine rifle.  Basic cadets fire the Air Force Qualification Course (AFQC). If basic cadets earn an expert rating for the M-4 AFQC, they will be authorized the wear of the USAF small arms expert ribbon.