Battle Command Training Program an Evaluation of Bctp and the Application of Airland Battle

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, domain. 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. The monograph next analyzes the trends in the performance of the first divisions to complete BCTP. The Army's AirLand Battle tenets of agility, synchronization, depth, and initiative are the criterion for analysis. The analysis identifies several major systemic weaknesses including: seeing the battlefield, using appropriate doctrinal tools and procedures, fighting the deep battle, and seizing the initiative from the enemy. The study concludes that BCTP is definitely enhancing the ability of divisions and corps to execute AirLand Battle doctrine. It links individual tactical competence to successful mission accomplishment of division and corps mission essential tasks. BCTP sets uniform standards for the training of division and corps commanders and their staffs. BCTP has the potential to reverse the historic first battle trend: inadequate preparation of senior commanders and their staffs for combat.