AFT CALCULATOR

U.S. Army's New Army Fitness Test (AFT) Implementation Plan - Detailed Overview

1. Background and Objectives

The Army Fitness Test (AFT), officially launched in May 2025, is the U.S. Army’s new physical fitness assessment system designed to raise the fitness standards for combat military occupational specialties (MOS/AOC). The goal is to ensure soldiers are physically capable of performing high-intensity combat missions. The test includes combat-relevant exercises such as the Max Deadlift (MDL, 3-repetition max) and weighted marches, with a maximum score of 600 points. Combat MOS soldiers must score at least 350 points to retain their occupational qualification.

2. Test Components and Scoring

The AFT includes 5 mandatory tests and 4 alternate events, categorized into strength, endurance, and agility to cover comprehensive fitness requirements:

Mandatory Tests

  1. Max Deadlift (MDL)
  • Requirements: 3-repetition maximum weight (lbs), testing lower body and core strength.
  • Scoring: Divided by age group and gender. For example, males aged 17-21 need 340 lbs for a perfect score (100 points), while females need 220 lbs (see scoring tables).
  1. Hand-Release Push-up (HRP)
  • Requirements: Complete as many standard push-ups as possible in 2 minutes, with hands lifting off the ground after each chest touch.
  • Perfect Score: Males aged 17-21 need 58 reps; females need 53 reps.
  1. Sprint/Drag/Carry (SDC)
  • Test Content: 5 consecutive obstacle tasks (dragging a 90-lb sled, carrying 40-lb kettlebells, etc.) over 400 meters, assessing explosiveness and functional fitness.
  • Perfect Time: Males aged 17-21 must finish in 1:29; females in 1:55.
  1. Plank (PLK)
  • Requirements: Hold a standard plank position for maximum time (minutes:seconds).
  • Perfect Score: Males and females aged 17-21 need 3:40 (some age groups require higher).
  1. 2-Mile Run (2MR)
  • Endurance Test: Replaces the APFT 2-mile run with adjusted time standards, e.g., males aged 17-21 need 13:22 for a perfect score; females need 16:00.

Alternate Events (Go/No-Go)

For soldiers with special conditions (e.g., injuries):

  • 2.5-Mile Walk (Complete within 31 minutes)
  • 12 km Bike (Within 26:25)
  • 1 km Swim (Within 30:48)
  • 5 km Row (Same as swim time)

Combat MOS soldiers must achieve ≥350 points (e.g., deadlift 230-240+ lbs + other event standards) to remain qualified. Those who fail face reclassification or separation.

3. Implementation Phases

The new AFT standard will be rolled out in three phases to ensure a smooth transition:

(1) Preparation Phase (May–August 2025)

  • Objective: Familiarize all combat MOS soldiers with the new standards through initial testing.
  • Key Actions:
  • Commanders brief soldiers on AFT policies.
  • Optional diagnostic tests identify sub-350 scorers (300-349 range).
  • Substandard soldiers receive training plans and counseling.

(2) Voluntary Reclassification Phase (September–December 2025)

  • Objective: Allow soldiers who fail to meet standards to voluntarily reclassify before mandatory actions.
  • Key Actions:
  • September – Mandatory Record Test: Soldiers scoring 300-349 may request transfer to priority MOS (e.g., logistics, medical).
  • December – Final Optional Test: Last chance to pass before mandatory reclassification.
  • Officer Policies:
  • 2LT to CPT (BOLC-B complete): May submit Exception to Policy (ETP) for branch transfer (e.g., Infantry → Quartermaster).
  • MAJ to COL: No branch transfer, but reassigned to non-combat roles (staff, training).

(3) Mandatory Reclassification Phase (January 2026 onward)

  • Objective: Enforce reclassification for soldiers still below 350.
  • Key Actions:
  • Enlisted Soldiers:
  • < 17 years, 3 months TAFS: Mandatory reclassification to high-demand MOS (e.g., Engineers, Transportation).
  • > 17 years, 3 months TAFS: Reclassified as 09U (MOS Immaterial) and retained until retirement eligibility.
  • Officers:
  • 2LT to CPT: Involuntary branch transfer (e.g., Armor → Military Police).
  • MAJ to COL: Reassigned to non-combat roles (no branch change).
  • Refusal to Reclassify: Initiate separation procedures.

4. Reclassification Process

(1) Enlisted Soldiers

  1. Career Counselor Assessment: Verifies eligibility for target MOS (ASVAB scores, physical qualifications).
  2. Application Submission: Soldier selects up to 3 preferred MOS options, with final decision by HRC.
  3. Training & Reassignment:
  • Successful candidates complete training for new MOS.
  • Failure results in 09U designation, leading to separation.

(2) Officers

  1. ETP Submission: Officers submit Voluntary Transfer Incentive Program (VTIP) requests.
  2. HRC Approval: Branch transfer based on Army needs (e.g., Infantry → Adjutant General).
  3. Training Requirements:
  • Pre-CCC Captains: Attend new branch training (e.g., Logistics Officer Course).
  • Post-CCC Captains & Field Grades: Direct reassignment (no additional schooling).

5. Special Cases

  • Temporary Profiles:
  • May defer testing but must complete AFT by January 2026 or face reclassification.
  • Permanent Profiles:
  • Evaluated for continued service; may be reclassified or separated.

6. Conclusion

The AFT’s higher standards aim to ensure combat soldiers are physically prepared for modern warfare. Soldiers who fail to meet the 350-point threshold will undergo voluntary or mandatory reclassification, with separation as the final option. The phased implementation (May 2025–January 2026) allows for a structured transition.