Retired Special Forces Soldier Praises Taiwan's New 14-Day Reserve Training

Retired special forces soldier Xiao Ziyun voluntarily participated in Taiwan's new 14-day mandatory reserve training, finding the experience impressive and professionally executed. Xiao, who previously served in the Army Special Forces Command, joined the training offered by the Army Infantry Brigade 153 during her summer break.

The enhanced training curriculum now includes drone operation, urban warfare, applied shooting, and tactical combat casualty care. Xiao expressed her surprise and satisfaction, noting that the training allowed her to re-experience core skills learned during her special forces service. She highlighted the high professionalism of the instructors and content, emphasizing its significant contribution to enhancing reserve force capabilities.

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I didn't expect that the core skills I learned in the special forces before could all be experienced in the reserve training now. The instructors and content of the reserve training are highly professional and greatly help in enhancing the reserve force's combat effectiveness.

Taiwan has fully implemented the 14-day reserve training for men this year, replacing the previous 5-7 day periods. The new system emphasizes "original soldiers returning to original positions" and matching personnel to their specialties. Some expanded units also include basic drone operation training to test the reserve forces' rapid readiness.

Currently, female reservists are not fully integrated into the mandatory training system like their male counterparts. Participation for women is primarily voluntary, with retired female officers, non-commissioned officers, and soldiers who meet specific criteria eligible to apply. The Ministry of National Defense is reviewing legislation to formally include former female volunteer service members in the reserve training system.

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Due to the ample time during the winter and summer breaks of my continuing education, and my curiosity about the new reserve training content, I decided to sign up for the challenge. My family also gave their support upon hearing the news, and my parents even drove me to the camp on the reporting day.