How Long Does It Take to Become a Ranger and Be Deployed as a Sniper?

Introduction

Becoming a U.S. Army Ranger with an 11X Option 40 enlistment contract is a rigorous and demanding journey. From the initial stages of training to becoming a squad sniper in the 3rd Battalion, there are several phases and timelines to consider. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the process and the factors that may influence the timelines for becoming a Ranger and being deployed as a sniper.

11X Option 40 Enlistment and Basic Training

Enlisting in the U.S. Army under the 11X Option 40 contract is the first step towards becoming a Ranger. The enlisted soldier will begin their initial training at:

Basic Training (10 Weeks): This phase is conducted at Fort Benning, Georgia, and focuses on the basics of military life, physical fitness, and combat skills.

Advanced Individual Training (AIT, 14 Weeks): After Basic Training, the soldier will attend AIT at Fort Benning for specialized training based on their Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), such as Infantry (11B).

The Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP)

Completion of AIT is followed by the stringent Ranger Assessment and Selection Program (RASP). This phase is designed to assess and select soldiers who have the physical, mental, and tactical capabilities to become Rangers:

RASP Duration (8 Weeks): The program is conducted at Fort Benning and is notoriously challenging, testing both physical and mental endurance.

Only those who successfully complete RASP will earn the Ranger tab and be considered a full Ranger. The total time to become a Ranger is approximately 32 weeks, which is roughly 8 months from enlistment.

Sniper School and Unit Training

Once a soldier has completed RASP and is assigned to a Ranger battalion like the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, they need to undergo additional specialized training:

Sniper School (8 Weeks): This school provides specialized training specific to becoming a sniper, enhancing the soldier's marksmanship and tactical skills.

Unit Training: After completing sniper school, the soldier will train with their specific squad. This training can take several months to further develop their skills and unit cohesion.

The combined time for sniper school and unit training can vary widely, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. This period is crucial for a sniper to be fully qualified and ready for deployment.

Deployment Timeline

After completing the necessary training and evaluations, a sniper can be deployed with the 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. However, the actual deployment timeline can vary significantly based on operational needs, training schedules, and unit readiness:

Total Time to First Deployment as a Sniper: Approximately 12 to 24 months after completing RASP and sniper school.

Conclusion

In summary, the journey from enlistment to becoming a Ranger and potentially deploying as a sniper in the 3rd Battalion can take about 8 months for basic training, RASP, and initial assignment. Subsequently, it can take up to 2 years of additional training and qualification before a sniper is ready for deployment. Final deployment dates are impacted by various factors, including operational requirements and current military strategies.

It's essential to understand that the process is not continuous deployment. Ranger units, like infantry units, spend a significant amount of time at their home stations for training and readiness. The path to becoming a sniper and deploying with the 3rd Battalion can be a lengthy process, and the exact timeline can vary based on individual circumstances and the military's operational needs.

For those considering an 11X Option 40 enlistment and a career as a sniper in the 3rd Battalion, the key is understanding the extensive training and commitment required. Proper planning, preparation, and the willingness to undergo rigorous training are crucial for success.