Flight Lieutenant Alice has become the first woman in the Royal Air Force to complete the demanding P Company course, earning a place in 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army's rapid reaction force. As a parachuting officer, she joins a unit known as the army’s “tip of the spear,” capable of deploying worldwide within five days, including potential frontline deployment in eastern Europe in the event of conflict with Russia.

Alice, who joined the RAF after finishing university, achieved the prestigious maroon beret in August after successfully passing the All Arms Pre Para Selection (AAPPS) course. The rigorous testing regimen began with six weeks of intense physical preparation at Merville Barracks in Colchester, followed by three and a half weeks of trials at Catterick, North Yorkshire. Throughout the course, she undertook the same physical demands as her male counterparts, including a ten-mile march carrying a 16-kilogram load to be completed within two hours, log and stretcher races, an aerial confidence course, and a 20-mile march. The course also involved “milling,” a test of controlled aggression where candidates trade punches without dodging or blocking.

Reflecting on her accomplishment, Alice noted the pressure she faced, understanding that passing on her first attempt was crucial given the limited opportunities and her own age. “I knew this was my one shot and I needed to see how far I could get,” she said. Her previous experience in triathlons contributed to her physical endurance during the course.

Since her success, Alice has received some negative responses on social media from individuals who doubt a woman’s ability to meet the course standards. She emphasized that all candidates must meet the same criteria regardless of gender and that she did not receive any special treatment. “Anyone on that course has to complete the standard regardless of who you are,” she said.

Her achievement follows that of Lance Corporal Grace Cussons, who in September became the first female army reservist to complete the P Company course. Both milestones mark significant steps toward greater gender integration in elite British military units.

16 Air Assault Brigade is a key component of the UK’s rapid response capability, ready to deploy quickly to crisis areas. Alice’s inclusion in the brigade highlights ongoing efforts to increase diversity while maintaining rigorous operational standards.