Commando Officer Training
Initial Officer Training is a 16-month programme at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM). Designed to develop future Royal Marines Officers, it combines military, physical and leadership training to prepare you to lead Commandos in some of the world’s most demanding environments.
16 month programme
A progressive programme combining military, leadership and tactical training.
5 phases
Build your skills and confidence through increasingly demanding challenges.
Leadership focused
Develop the confidence and judgement to lead Royal Marines Commandos.
Physically demanding
Known as one of the toughest training courses in the world, you'll be pushed to your physical potential.
CTCRM Lympstone
Training takes place at Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) Lymsptone, Devon.
ROP first
Before starting the main course, you’ll complete a two-week Recruit Orientation Phase.
Before you start
Get the facts so you can arrive on your first day ready to meet the demands of Commando Officer training.
Before you start
- Read the fitness requirements so you understand the standard expected of you before training begins.
- Use the Commando Ready app and official training plans to build your fitness and prepare properly.
- Complete every stage of the joining process, including assessments, CPC and security checks.
- Check your joining instructions carefully so you know what kit to bring and what to expect on arrival.
- Be ready to travel to CTCRM Lympstone on the date you are given - your AFCO will arrange your train ticket and help you get there.
Training in action
Marines fitness
There’s a press-up. And there’s a Royal Marines press-up. Are you fit to join?
Meet the instructors
There’s only one condition for Royal Marines Commandos. Peak condition. That’s why we’ve got a dedicated team of Physical Training Instructors (PTIs), who keep our team in shape and make sure our recruits are up to the rigours of basic training.
The 30 miler
The 30 Miler. A march across the harsh and unforgiving terrain of Dartmoor to be completed in eight hours, regardless of the conditions. This is the final Commando Test. Everything you’ve worked for rests on this. Can you perform under pressure?
The endurance course
This 73-minute challenge is only the start of an intense, week-long physical examination that proves you’re ready to wear the green beret.
Phase 1: Weeks 1-12
Individual Skills
Building the military foundations of an Officer.
The first 12 weeks focus on developing the core military skills expected of every Royal Marines Officer. You’ll learn weapons handling, fieldcraft, navigation, swimming, drills, and physical fitness while adapting to life at CTCRM and building the discipline needed for military service.
This phase establishes the foundations you’ll rely on throughout the rest of your training, combining classroom learning with practical exercises to develop both confidence and competence.
Phase 2: Weeks 13-22
Section skills
Learning to lead a team in the field.
As your training progresses, you’ll begin commanding a section while developing your understanding of small-team tactics, reconnaissance and offensive operations.
Working alongside experienced instructors, you’ll learn how to assess situations, solve problems and make effective decisions under pressure as responsibility gradually increases through realistic field exercises.
Phase 3: Weeks 23-30
Troop skills
Developing the confidence to command larger operations.
Having developed your section leadership, you’ll progress to planning and leading operations as commander of a 30-person troop.
This phase develops your tactical planning, communication and decision-making skills while challenging you to lead others in increasingly complex operational scenarios. Alongside your military knowledge, you’ll continue building the confidence, judgement and resilience expected of a Royal Marines Commando Officer.
Phase 4: Weeks 31-37
Commando phase
Earning the green beret.
The Commando Phase prepares you for some of the most demanding stages of Initial Officer Training.
You’ll take part in raids, amphibious operations, and helicopter operations before completing the four Commando Tests over 4 consecutive days.
The Commando Tests
- Endurance Course – Complete in under 71 minutes
- 9-mile Speed March – Complete in under 90 minutes
- Tarzan Assault Course – Complete in under 12 minutes
- 30-Miler – Complete within 7 hours
Successfully completing this phase demonstrates that you’ve achieved the same demanding physical and mental standards expected of every Royal Marines Commando and earns you the Green Beret.
Phase 5: Weeks 38-62
Modern Operations
Preparing to lead in today’s operational environment.
The final phase of Initial Officer Training focuses on advanced operational skills, and preparation for commanding a troop within a Commando Unit.
Building on everything you’ve learned throughout the programme, this phase develops your ability to lead in complex environments while applying the military knowledge, tactical understanding and leadership skills expected of a Royal Marines Officer.
Training at CTCRM
Experience life at the home of Royal Marines training.
Your training takes place at the Commando Training Centre Royal Marines (CTCRM) in Lympstone, Devon.
CTCRM is the principal training establishment for the Royal Marines, responsible for training recruits, officers and reservists, while also delivering specialist and leadership training across the Corps. Supported by expert instructors and world-class facilities, you’ll train alongside some of the UK’s most capable military personnel.
