<P> Emphasis is placed on long - distance underwater dives with the goal of training students to become basic combat divers, using swimming and diving techniques as a means of transportation from their launch point to their combat objective . This is what separates SEALs from all other US special operations forces . By the end of Second Phase, candidates must complete timed 2 - mile swim with fins in 80 minutes, the four - mile run with boots in 31 minutes, a 3.5 - mile and 5.5 - mile swim . </P> <P> Successful second phase candidates demonstrate a high level of comfort in the water and the ability to perform in stressful and often uncomfortable environments . Candidates who are not completely comfortable in the water often struggle to succeed . </P> <P> The land warfare phase teaches the class basic weapons, demolitions, land navigation, patrolling, rappelling, marksmanship and small - unit tactics . During third phase, the class is taught to gather and process information that will complete the overall mission . There is more classroom work that teaches map, compass, land navigation and basic weapon skill sets . These skill sets allow the class to transition from having novice skills to becoming more comfortable out in the field . Most of this training is new to the class, and the learning pace becomes faster and faster . </P> <P> For the final three and a half weeks of training, the class goes offshore, about 60 miles from Coronado to San Clemente Island . On the island, the class practices the skills they learned in third phase . The days become longer and more work intensive, set to mirror the work hours spent in the field . Many students view this as one of the hardest parts of training, as training is conducted seven days a week, with very minimal sleep, all while handling live explosives and ammunition . Interaction with instructors is also never ending, and punishments are at their harshest levels yet . By the end of Third Phase, candidates must complete a timed 2 mile ocean swim w / fins in 75 mins, 4 - mile timed run with boots in 30 mins and complete a 14 - mile run . </P>

Where do navy seals go to sniper school