Military skills and shooting training

Military Skills and Shooting

Develop essential military skills, marksmanship, and fieldcraft through our comprehensive training program.

Military Training Experience

Our military skills program offers cadets the opportunity to experience various aspects of military life and training. From marksmanship to fieldcraft, cadets develop discipline, precision, and tactical awareness while learning in a safe and structured environment.

Target Shooting

Learn marksmanship skills using various types of target rifles under expert supervision.

Fieldcraft

Learn survival skills, camouflage techniques, and tactical movement in the field.

Military Knowledge

Study military history, ranks, and structures while visiting UK armed forces units.

Program Highlights

  • Annual camps at military bases in the UK and overseas
  • Specialist training in fieldcraft and survival skills
  • International Air Cadet Exchange opportunities
  • Visits to specialist units across the UK armed forces

Safety First

All military skills and shooting activities are conducted under strict supervision with comprehensive safety procedures. Cadets must complete mandatory safety training before participating in any shooting activities.

Our Shooting Syllabus

Safety First

Comprehensive safety training is our top priority. All cadets learn proper handling, range discipline, and safety protocols before ever touching a rifle.

Range Weapons

Training on various air rifles and small-bore rifles in controlled range environments with qualified Range Officers supervising all activities.

Marksmanship Badges

Opportunity to earn recognised marksmanship qualifications through a structured program, from Marksman to Distinguished Marksman levels.

Technique Development

Training in proper stance, breathing control, trigger control, and sight alignment. Learn concentration techniques that help in many aspects of life.

Competition Shooting

Opportunities to represent the squadron in local, regional, and national shooting competitions against other cadet units and organizations.

Team Building

Participate in team shooting events that build camaraderie, support, and teamwork skills while improving individual performance through peer coaching.

Shooting Gallery

Cadets training on the range

Range Training

Cadets receive comprehensive instruction on proper shooting technique and range procedures.

Cadets in competition

Competition Shooting

Cadets represent the squadron in various shooting competitions at different levels.

Shooting equipment

Advanced Training

Experienced cadets use specialised equipment and techniques to improve their marksmanship.

Safety briefing

Safety Briefings

All shooting activities begin with comprehensive safety briefings and equipment checks.

Shooting Achievements

Qualification Badges

  • Marksman Badge
  • First Class Badge
  • Skilled Shot Badge
  • Distinguished Marksman Badge

Competition Opportunities

  • Squadron Shooting Competitions
  • Wing and Regional Competitions
  • Inter-Services Cadet Rifle Meeting
  • National Cadet Shooting Competitions
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Cadet Experience

“Through fieldcraft and shooting, I’ve been to serene countryside and landscapes I had never seen before. I’ve also had unique experiences that still influence me today.”
SS

Corporal Shekimweri

485 Squadron

Develop Your Marksmanship Skills

Join 485 Squadron and learn target shooting in a safe, structured environment that builds confidence and precision.