Battalion Reconnaissance Operations at the National Training Center.
Abstract
In a prior study of task force scout operations at the NTC, the Arroyo Center made a number of significant findings. We found that the reconnaissance function was deficient in a majority of battles, and that the reconnaissance deficiency could be correlated with failure in offensive operations. Problems included inefficient use of time, failure to use available assets, poor scouting techniques, and inadequate supervision by the battalion commander and staff. These problems were found to result from doctrinal shortcomings, insufficient training of key personnel, and equipment deficiencies. The study went on to make specific recommendations to overcome these difficulties. As a consequence of the study, as well as its own investigations, the Army made a number of important changes to doctrine, training, and equipment for the scout elements of heavy battalions. At the request of a former commandant of the U.S. Army Armor School, the Arroyo Center NTC project conducted a brief relook study of task force scout operations at the NTC. The purpose was to determine if the 'fixes' the Army put in place were successful in overcoming former problems. The study examined the performance of ten battalion task forces over a period of about one year.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA307150
Entities
People
- Martin Goldsmith
Organizations
- RAND Corporation