Bugle Summer 2026 - Flipbook - Page 7
1 RIFLES
KOSOVO BEST SOLDIER
26 COMPETITION
In April, four Riflemen from B Company
deployed to Kosovo to compete in the
Kosovo Best Soldier Competition 2026, a
demanding 3-day event bringing together
seven international teams, including troops
from the Kosovo Security Force (KSF).
The competition tested individual
soldier capability across nine core
disciplines, combining physical endurance,
marksmanship, fieldcraft and decision-making
under pressure.
Day one included a fitness assessment
(press-ups, sit-ups, and a fatigued 3.2km run),
a daytime navigation exercise, and live firing
with the Heckler and Koch G36 Rifle.
Day two saw competitors complete an
18-stage obstacle course, grenade accuracy
test, Glock 17 pistol shoot, first aid assessment,
and an observation test. This was followed by
a 15km loaded march.
The Riflemen performed strongly across
all events, demonstrating resilience,
professionalism and the ability to operate
effectively while fatigued. Notable individual
achievements included the highest hand
grenade throw accuracy of all international
competitors (Rfn Narara) and the fastest time
in the 3.2km run (Rfn Campbell-Thompson).
The team successfully represented both
1 RIFLES and the UK, receiving the KSF
commemorative coins in recognition of their
performance and conduct.
SPECTIVE:
THE RIFLEMEN’S PER
“It was a great experience to
represent the British Army. It means
a lot more when you realise you are
competing not just for the Battalion but
for the flag that we wear on our arm.”
Rfn Campbell-Thompson, B Coy 1 RIFLES
“I was introduced to some of the
history and culture of Kosovo at the
Jashari museum on my first day. The
most intense part of the competition
was the physical and high-level
navigation tests, although the 15km
march was rigorous and demanding.”
Rfn Narara, B Coy 1 RIFLES
Participation provided a valuable
opportunity to test soldiering skills, enhance
interoperability with partner nations, and
strengthen relationships in a multinational
environment – directly contributing to
readiness and professional development
within 1 RIFLES.
Capt Hebe Grout, Kosovo Best Soldier
Competition Team Sponsor
…not just
for the
Battalion
but for the
昀氀ag that
we wear on
our arm
“The best part for me was the 15km
march. Pushing at the very end to make
sure I kept a distance from the Croatian
competitors took everything out of
me! It was a great opportunity to see
Kosovo too.”
Rfn Meagh, B Coy 1 RIFLES
“The competition was fierce and
using completely new weapon systems
was the best part and getting to meet
people from different backgrounds and
countries, such as the US and Albanian
teams. We made good friends and
connections for the future and hopefully
we can return next year!”
Rfn Ralli, B Coy 1 RIFLES
RIFLES The Bugle 7
