Combat Water Survival Training (CWST)

Army Water Survival Training (AWST) builds Soldier confidence and survivability in and around water. AWST teaches the skill, endurance, strength, and mental toughness required for waterborne field training and combat environments. For all tasks and tests, Soldiers will be prepared to wear ACUs, boots, and their own IOTV without plates or neck collar. For certain tasks, Soldiers will use an M16- or M4-series training aid. This appendix discusses the shepherd’s crook rescue and basic survival swimming. Chapter 7 of FM 7-22 addresses safety guidance during planning, preparation, and execution of water survival training.