Identifying the Training Challenges and Needs of Deploying Units
Abstract
In response to rapidly evolving mission requirements and changing tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP), U.S. Army small unit leaders (company level officers and non-commissioned officers [NCOs]) are required to develop new training methods and/or adapt existing products to meet training needs. The core challenge for the small unit leader is to rapidly develop and implement predeployment training that incorporates lessons learned and new TTPs. At the same time, these leaders must develop training for newly inserted capabilities and technologies. To identify training requirements and the tools available for training development, the U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences gathered information through semi-structured interviews and surveys with 51 Active Component and Reserve Component small unit leaders. The research identifies individual, collective, and leader training requirements; the availability and adequacy of training tools; the availability and adequacy of training facilities (e.g., ranges) and equipment; and additional training tools that could be developed to enhance predeployment training. The RC leaders generally identified more constraints on training than did AC leaders with regard to tactical equipment, weapons training ranges, and early identification of the unit's next deployment area of operations. Both AC and RC leaders stressed the need for language and culture skills training and human terrain mapping. Many leaders were concerned that their units do not possess the equipment needed for training or the necessary access to ranges to build essential skills for deployment. Lack of close quarters battle (CQB) training and access to the .50 caliber machine gun were often cited as examples. The training tools survey was useful in supporting the empirical comparison of AC and RC unit training needs and resources.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA495194
Entities
People
- Peter S. Schaefer
- William R. Sanders
Organizations
- U.S. Army Research Institute for the Behavioral and Social Sciences