122 teams join world’s toughest military challenge in Wales
A record 122 military teams from around the world are taking part in this year’s Exercise Cambrian Patrol, the British Army’s legendary endurance and skills challenge known as NATO’s toughest test of soldiering.
The 10-day event, which runs from Friday 3 October to Sunday 12 October, is organised by the 160th (Welsh) Brigade from its headquarters in Brecon and sees soldiers from across the globe descend on the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) for an intense, 48-hour patrol through some of Britain’s most unforgiving terrain.
This year’s field includes 56 regular Army teams, 12 reserve units, 18 university officer training corps, and a record 34 international patrols, including forces from NATO allies and partner nations. Two mixed teams will see British soldiers work alongside international counterparts.
Gruelling test of endurance and skill
Teams of eight soldiers will trek up to 40 miles through the mountains, carrying full equipment while completing a series of battlefield missions – from treating casualties and crossing minefields to gathering intelligence, engaging enemy positions and handling prisoners.
Each team begins after a kit inspection at Maindy Barracks in Cardiff, then deploys from an assembly point near Glynneath, navigating rugged terrain to finish at Sennybridge about two days later.
Patrols are judged on performance, leadership, and teamwork, earning gold, silver, or bronze medals, or a completion coin.
Major Darren Pridmore, who commands the exercise, said: “The focus of Cambrian Patrol is to test the core skills troops need to operate effectively on the battlefield. Soldiers must be physically robust, protect themselves from the environment, and communicate effectively to outwit their adversaries.”
Integrating new technology
While rooted in tradition – the exercise has run annually since 1959 – this year’s edition introduces uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and other emerging technologies to reflect modern warfare.
Major Pridmore said troops would face “a heightened enemy drone threat” and could use friendly UAS to support reconnaissance and movement. The integration of new kit has been developed in collaboration with Defence industry partners, who now play an active role in supporting the event. “We’ve kept the spirit of Cambrian Patrol alive while ensuring it stays relevant to the realities of modern conflict,” he said.
International prestige and Welsh pride
The exercise’s global reputation continues to grow. Many international teams must win national competitions to earn the right to take part – such as Australia’s Duke of Gloucester Cup.
Brigadier Mark Davies CBE, Commander of 160th (Welsh) Brigade, said the record participation “is testament to the British Army’s reputation for soldiering and our global network.” He added “Exercise Cambrian Patrol is uniquely Welsh, combining our rugged landscape, unpredictable weather and world-class training. Each patrol that earns a medal or completion coin will have truly earned it,” he said.
He added that the event’s success depended heavily on the support of Welsh communities and landowners, who have hosted the Army for more than six decades.
‘Arduous until the end’
Over 1,000 soldiers are taking part this year, supported by 350 staff running eight phases of the event. For participants, the motto is fittingly Welsh: “Caled hyd y diwedd” – “Arduous until the end.”
As Brigadier Davies put it: “Cambrian Patrol is designed to be exceptionally tough – a test of courage, endurance and professionalism. Its reputation is recognised worldwide, and for those who complete it, the pride lasts a lifetime.”
Credit: MOD, Crown Copyright
