The Battle Command Training Program: An Evaluation of BCTP and the Application of Airland Battle

Abstract

This monograph examines the effectiveness of the Battle Command Training Program (BCTP) in meeting its stated goal: 'To enhance the combat proficiency of divisions and corps to execute AirLand Battle doctrine.' The study analyzes the degree of realism in the training environment, and the ability of the first ten divisions which completed BCTP to fight in accordance with AirLand Battle tenets. The ability to replicate the physical, cybernetic, and moral domains of battle serves as the criteria for analysis of realism. The exercise simulation does not portray catastrophic disruption in the cybernetic and moral domains. However, it does portray fog and friction of war. More importantly, the simulation stresses the unit's battlefield operating systems to the degree necessary to identify systemic shortcomings. Keywords: Depth, Command and control system, Synchronization (Electronics), Division training, Infantry, Military doctrine, Military training, Training simulations.