ACFT Standards Close Combat MOS: 2026 AFT Charts & Passing Scores Explained

The Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT) was renamed the Army Fitness Test (AFT) in 2026, but Soldiers in close combat MOS still face the same reality: higher physical demands and higher expectations.

Many Soldiers search for acft standards close combat moss because they want clear answers. They want to know what standards apply, how scoring works, and what commanders really expect. This guide explains everything in simple terms, based on official Army guidance—not rumors or social media charts.

ACFT standards close combat MOS: quick overview

Here’s the short version:

• The ACFT is now officially called the AFT
• Event structure remains mostly the same
• Soldiers must pass every event
• Close combat MOS follow combat fitness standards
• Commanders expect performance above minimums

If your job involves direct combat, passing alone is not the goal. Readiness is.

ACFT vs. AFT: What changed for close combat MOS in 2026?

The Army did not lower standards or redesign the test. It clarified the system.

New test name, same combat focus

The shift from ACFT to AFT reflects one idea: every Soldier supports combat operations. However, acft standards close combat moss still reflect higher job demands.

The Army kept the events because they measure:

• Strength under load
• Speed while fatigued
• Endurance over distance

Combat has not changed. The test still prepares Soldiers for it.

Close combat MOS and combat standards

The Army identifies 21 combat MOS and AOCs that require higher physical performance. These include:

• Infantry
• Armor and Cavalry
• Combat Engineers
• Field Artillery
• Special Operations support roles

While all Soldiers use the same AFT score charts, acft standards close combat moss require higher minimum performance levels based on job task analysis and injury data.

Combat jobs demand combat fitness. The Army’s data supports this approach.

Transition timeline

By 2026, the Army fully integrated the AFT name into:

• Official doctrine
• Training records
• Evaluations and counseling

Soldiers may still say “ACFT,” but official records now use “AFT.” The standards themselves remain consistent.

AFT events and why they matter for close combat MOS

Each event directly connects to battlefield movement and injury prevention.

3-Rep Max Deadlift (MDL)

The MDL measures total-body strength, especially in the legs, hips, and core.

For Soldiers under acft standards close combat moss, this event matters because they regularly:

• Lift heavy equipment
• Move barriers
• Carry injured teammates

Strong lifting ability reduces injury risk and improves mission performance.

Hand-Release Push-Up (HRP)

The HRP measures upper-body endurance and core control.

The hand release removes cheating and enforces proper form. Soldiers must maintain strength under fatigue, which reflects real combat conditions.

Sprint-Drag-Carry (SDC)

The SDC is one of the most important events for close combat MOS.

It measures:

• Speed
• Power
• Agility
• Mental toughness

The sprinting, dragging, and carrying directly reflect combat movement patterns. Many Soldiers struggle here because combat is demanding.

Plank (PLK)

The plank measures core endurance and spinal stability.

A strong core protects Soldiers during:

• Ruck marching
• Load carriage
• Repetitive lifting

For acft standards close combat moss, core strength is not optional. It is protective equipment.

Two-Mile Run (2MR)

The 2MR Run measures aerobic endurance and cardiovascular fitness.

Close combat operations require sustained movement over distance. The run remains a reliable way to assess long-term endurance and recovery ability.

ACFT scoring basics for close combat MOS

Understanding scoring removes confusion and stress.

General standard vs. combat standard

The Army applies:

• General fitness standards for most Soldiers
• Combat fitness standards for close combat roles

The AFT score tables stay the same. The required minimums differ based on occupational demand studies.

This system keeps the force fair, capable, and ready.

Age and sex adjustments

The Army uses age- and sex-normed scoring.

This system:

• Maintains combat relevance
• Accounts for physiological differences
• Reduces preventable injuries

Performance still matters. The standards remain meaningful.

Where to find official ACFT / AFT standards

For accurate acft standards close combat moss, always use:

• Army Publishing Directorate (APD)
• FM 7-22: Holistic Health and Fitness
• Official Army.mil updates
• Unit-issued policy guidance

Avoid unofficial charts without citations.

How to read AFT score charts

Step 1: Select the correct standard

Choose:

• Combat standard
• Enlisted or Officer category

Step 2: Find your age group

Locate your age band and sex category. The chart applies the correct scoring automatically.

Step 3: Match performance to points

Convert each event result into points.

Fail one event, fail the test. This rule still applies.

Training for acft standards close combat moss

Passing is the baseline. Combat readiness is the goal.

Confirm your requirements

Before training hard, verify:

• Your MOS classification
• Combat standard requirements
• Minimum scores per event

Clarity improves results.

Focus on weak events first

Most Soldiers improve fastest in:

• Sprint-Drag-Carry technique
• Plank endurance
• Push-up pacing

Target weaknesses before strengths.

Use testing blocks

Test every 6–8 weeks to track progress and build confidence.

Train for readiness, not minimums

Minimums protect paperwork.
Readiness protects Soldiers.

Train accordingly.

Common questions about acft standards close combat moss

Is ACFT still used, or is it all AFT now?

Officially, it is the Army Fitness Test (AFT). Most Soldiers still use the ACFT name informally.

What is a passing score for close combat MOS?

Soldiers must:

• Pass every event
• Meet combat fitness minimums

There is no average pass score.

What happens if I fail?

Failure may result in:

• Remedial training
• Counseling
• Administrative action

Early improvement prevents career issues.

Conclusion

The acft standards close combat moss exist for one reason: prepare Soldiers for real combat demands.

The name changed.
The expectations did not.

Know your standard.
Train with purpose.
Show up ready.