According to a recent press release from the British Army, Exercise Cambrian Patrol, renowned as the British Army’s toughest patrols test, marks its 65th anniversary this year.
The exercise, set to begin on October 4 in the challenging terrain of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons), will see soldiers from across the world test their military skills in navigation, tactics, leadership, and teamwork.
Lieutenant Colonel Will Peltor, Officer Commanding the event, highlighted the enduring relevance of the exercise: “As we mark the 65th year since the first Exercise Cambrian Patrol took place it’s important to note that the event maintains its core standards and is as relevant today, in the modern operational environment, as it was for Territorial Soldiers nearly seven decades ago.”
This year’s event will see 113 patrols enter, with participants from the UK’s Regular and Reserve forces, as well as international patrols from 35 countries. The patrols will navigate more than 40 miles, facing a series of tasks such as medical evacuations, minefield clearance, and intelligence gathering.
Lt Col Peltor noted the exercise’s increasing complexity, adding: “There will be an increased presence of unmanned air systems (UAS) and other new technologies, exposing patrols to the uncertainty and dynamic threat of the modern operating environment.”
Brigadier Nick Thomas CBE, Commander of 160th (Welsh) Brigade, praised the international involvement, stating: “Exercise Cambrian Patrol continues to evolve to provide relevance and utility in meeting the needs of the British Army and our allies, championing tactical patrolling excellence.”
