The US military has opened the remaining 10 percent of military positions to women, which include front line combat roles, in a historic ruling for gender equality within the armed forces.

Speaking at Pentagon press conference, Defence Secretary Ash Carter said “women will now be able to contribute to our missions in ways they could not before.”

“They will be able to drive tanks, fire mortars and lead infantry soldiers into combat.”

Other roles previously reserved for men included special task forces including Green Berets, US Rangers, Air Force parajumpers and Navy SEALs.

Defence correspondent Andrea Shalal told Reuters that three women have so far passed the rigorous US Rangers course, which should have technically allowed them to be eligible for any military position. This new ruling will “clear their path to do so”.

Although acknowledging that men and women will have different physical capabilities, Carter stated “there will be women who can meet the physical requirements, just as there are men who can not.” The ruling came after a three year review that had seen appeals by certain sections of the US Marines who claimed men and women would not form efficient combat groups.

Such arguments have been rejected and starting next year, an increase of 220,000 military jobs will be open to women.

Contact the writer at feedback@ibtimes.com.au, or let us know what you think below.