FM 7 1 Battle Focused Training

Survival, Water, Medical Field Manuals

Military Manuals

Document text

FM 7-1 

(FM 25-101) 



BATTLE FOCUSED 
TRAINING 




SEPTEMBER 2003 

DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: 

Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 

HEADQUARTERS 
DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 



This publication is available at Army 
Knowledge Online (www.us.armv.min 
and the General Dennis J. Reimer 
Training and Doctrine Digital Library at 
(www.adtdl.armv.min 



*FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Field Manual 
No. 7-1 



Preface 
Chapter 1 



Chapter 2 



Chapter 3 



Headquarters 
Department of the Army 
Washington, DC, 15 September 2003 



Battle Focused Training 



Contents 

Page 



XII 



HOW THE ARMY TRAINS 1-1 

Training Overview 1-1 

The Training Challenge 1-2 

Joint, Interagency, Intergovernmental, Multinational Training 1-2 

The Army T raining System 1-3 

The Army Training and Leader Development Model 1-4 

The Operational Army 1-5 

The Institutional Army 1-7 

Individual Self-Development 1-10 

Reserve Component Training 1-12 

Premobilization and Postmobilization Training 1-12 

Summary 1-13 

BATTLE FOCUSED TRAINING 2-1 

Principles of Training 2-1 

Commanders and Training 2-1 1 

Top-Down/Bottom-Up Approach to Training 2-14 

Battle Focus 2-14 

Army Training Management Cycle 2-16 

Summary 2-16 

MISSION ESSENTIAL TASK LIST (METL) DEVELOPMENT 3-1 

METL Development Process 3-2 

Inputs to METL Development 3-3 

Commanders’ Analysis 3-5 

METL Development Fundamentals 3-6 

Battlefield Operating Systems 3-6 

METL Development Sequence 3-8 

Battle Tasks 3-8 

Staff METL 3-24 

Specialty Platoon Critical Task List Development 3-26 

Reserve Component METL Development 3-26 

Echelon Above Division/Echelon Above Corps METL Development 3-27 

Table of Distribution and Allowances METL Development 3-27 

METL Development for Directed Change of Mission 3-28 



Distribution Restriction: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 
*This publication supersedes FM 25-101, 30 September 1990. 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Training Objectives 3-29 

Summary 3-36 

Chapter 4 PLANNING 4-1 

Training Planning Process 4-2 

Section I. Training Assessment 4-3 

Assessments by Commanders of Battalions, Brigades, and Above 4-4 

Assessments by Commanders of Companies, Batteries, and Troops 4-5 

Assessments by Noncommissioned Officers 4-5 

Assessment Ratings 4-6 

Evaluation Ratings 4-6 

Brigade Combat Team Commander Assessment Example 4-6 

Section II. Training Strategy 4-27 

Overview 4-27 

Combined Arms Training Strategy (CATS) 4-30 

Training Adaptive Leaders and Units 4-30 

Live, Virtual, and Constructive Training 4-32 

Sample Commander Training Strategies 4-34 

Section III. Command Training Guidance 4-45 

Section IV. Training Plans 4-46 

Planning Calendars 4-47 

Time Management 4-49 

Long-Range Planning 4-52 

Short-Range Planning 4-56 

Near-Term Planning 4-71 

Training Meetings 4-75 

Training Schedules 4-78 

Summary 4-81 

Chapter 5 EXECUTION 5-1 

Section I: Training Execution 5-2 

The Role of Commanders 5-3 

The Role of Noncommissioned Officers 5-3 

Sergeants Time Training 5-3 

Crawl-Walk-Run Training 5-4 

Efficient and Effective Training 5-5 

Presentation of Training 5-6 

Situational Training Exercises 5-7 

Live Fire Exercises 5-8 

Staff Training 5-9 

Section II: Preparation for Training 5-11 

Train the Trainer 5-13 

Conduct Pre-Execution Checks 5-15 

Preparation for Training Examples 5-15 

Section III: Conduct of Training 5-62 

Conduct Pre-Combat Checks 5-63 

Execute Training 5-64 

Conduct After Action Reviews 5-65 

Retraining 5-65 

Section IV: Recovery from Training 5-66 

Conduct After Action Reviews During Recovery 5-67 

Summary 5-68 



ii 




Contents 

Chapter 6 ASSESSMENT 6-1 

Assessment 6-2 

Organizational Assessment 6-2 

Training Assessment 6-4 

Training Evaluation 6-4 

Certification 6-10 

After Action Review 6-1 1 

Lessons and Lessons Learned 6-12 

Example Training Assessments 6-12 

The Role of Commanders and Leaders 6-27 

Summary 6-29 

Appendix A LEADER TRAINING AND LEADER DEVELOPMENT IN UNITS A-1 

Appendix B COMPANY TRAINING MEETING B-1 

Appendix C AFTER ACTION REVIEW (AAR) C-1 

Appendix D TRAINING EXERCISE DEVELOPMENT D-1 

Appendix E EXAMPLE TRAINING GUIDANCE E-1 

Appendix F EXAMPLE QTB AND YTB F-1 

Appendix G TRAINING SUPPORT SYSTEM (TSS) G-1 

Appendix H RISK MANAGEMENT H-1 

Glossary Glossary-1 

References References-1 

Index Index-1 



iii 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Figures 

Figure 1-1. Army Training and Leader Development Model 1-4 

Figure 1-2. The Operational Army 1-6 

Figure 1-3. The Institutional Army 1-8 

Figure 2-1. Principles of Training 2-1 

Figure 2-2. Brigade Combat Team Organization 2-4 

Figure 2-3. Combined Arms Training — Scope and Scale 2-5 

Figure 2-4. Band of Excellence 2-10 

Figure 2-5. Overlapping Training Responsibilities 2-12 

Figure 2-6. Integration of Collective and Individual Training 2-15 

Figure 2-7. Army Training Management Cycle 2-17 

Figure 3-1. Mission Essential Task List Development Process 3-3 

Figure 3-2. UJTL-AUTL-ARTEP-MTP Crosswalk 3-4 

Figure 3-3. Fundamental Concepts Used in METL Development 3-6 

Figure 3-4. Relationships between Mission, METL, Critical Tasks, and Battle Task 3-9 

Figure 3-5. Brigade METL Development Sequence 3-10 

Figure 3-6. Battalion METL Development Sequence 3-11 

Figure 3-7. METL Crosswalk 3-12 

Figure 3-8. Company METL Development Sequence 3-13 

Figure 3-9. Company METL Development 3-14 

Figure 3-10. Infantry Company METL Development 3-15 

Figure 3-1 1 . Battery METL Development 3-15 

Figure 3-12. Brigade Support Medical Company METL Development 3-16 

Figure 3-13. Selection of Platoon Critical Tasks and Platoon-Level Leader Tasks 3-17 

Figure 3-14. Selection of Infantry Platoon Critical Tasks and Platoon-Level Leader 

Tasks 3-17 

Figure 3-15. Selection of Platoon, Section, and Team Critical Tasks 3-18 

Figure 3-16. Selection of Ambulance Platoon Critical Tasks and 

Platoon-Level Leader Tasks 3-18 

Figure 3-17. Selection of Squad Critical Tasks and Drills, and Squad-Level Leader 

Tasks 3-19 

Figure 3-18. Selection of Infantry Squad Critical Tasks and Squad-Level Leader 

Tasks 3-20 

Figure 3-19. Selection of Section Critical Tasks and Section-Level Leader Tasks 3-20 

Figure 3-20. Selection of Ambulance Squad Critical Tasks and Squad-Level Leader 

Tasks 3-21 

Figure 3-21 . Selection of Individual Soldier Tasks 3-22 

Figure 3-22. Selection of Infantry Individual Soldier Tasks 3-22 

Figure 3-23. Selection of Individual Tasks 3-23 

Figure 3-24. Selection of Medical Individual Soldier Tasks 3-23 

Figure 3-25. Infantry Battalion Staff METL Development 3-24 



IV 




Contents 

Figure 3-26. Direct Support (DS) Field Artillery Battalion Staff METL Development 3-25 

Figure 3-27. Direct Support (DS) Field Artillery Battalion Staff Officer Task 

Development 3-25 

Figure 3-28. Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) Staff METL Development 3-26 

Figure 3-29. Garrison METL Development 3-28 

Figure 3-30. Example of Training Objective for a BCT Mission Essential Task 3-31 

Figure 3-31. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Battalion, 

BCT Mission Essential Task 3-32 

Figure 3-32. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Company 

Mission Essential Task 3-32 

Figure 3-33. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Platoon Task 3-33 

Figure 3-34. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Squad Task 3-33 

Figure 3-35. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Individual Soldier Task 3-33 

Figure 3-36. Example of Training Objective for a Brigade Support Battalion, 

BCT Mission Essential Task 3-34 

Figure 3-37. Example of Training Objective for a Brigade Support Medical 

Company Mission Essential Task 3-34 

Figure 3-38. Example of Training Objective for an Ambulance Platoon Task 3-35 

Figure 3-39. Example of Training Objective for an Ambulance Squad Task 3-35 

Figure 3-40. Example of Training Objective for Individual Soldier Task 3-35 

Figure 4-1. Training Planning Process 4-2 

Figure 4-2. Training Planning Process (Training Assessment) 4-4 

Figure 4-3. METL Crosswalk 4-8 

Figure 4-4. “Bottom-Up” Input (Conduct an Attack) 4-9 

Figure 4-5. “Bottom-Up” Input (Coordinate Fire Support) 4-15 

Figure 4-6. “Bottom-up” Input (Acquire Targets) 4-16 

Figure 4-7. “Bottom-Up” Input (Defend Against Level I and II Threats and Provide 

Direct Support (DS) Level Combat Service Support) 4-20 

Figure 4-8. Training Planning Process (Training Strategy) 4-28 

Figure 4-9. Training Strategy 4-29 

Figure 4-10. Training Adaptive Leaders and Units 4-31 

Figure 4-11. Training Adaptability 4-32 

Figure 4-12. Selected Training Tasks to Improve BCT METL Proficiency for METL 

Task: “Conduct an Attack” 4-34 

Figure 4-13. 1st BCT Commander’s Training Strategy 4-35 

Figure 4-14. Selected Training Tasks to Improve 1-77 IN METL Proficiency for METL 

Tasks: “Assault an Objective” and “Breach an Obstacle” 4-37 

Figure 4-15. 1-77 IN Commander’s Training Strategy 4-38 

Figure 4-16. Selected Training Tasks to Improve A/1-77 IN METL Proficiency for 
METL Tasks: “Assault an Objective,” “Integrate Indirect Fire Support,” 
and “Breach an Obstacle” 4-39 

Figure 4-17. A/1-77 IN Commander’s Training Strategy 4-40 

Figure 4-18. A/1-77 IN Commander’s Training Strategy (continued) 4-41 

Figure 4-19. A/1-77 IN Leader, Individual, Collective, and OPFOR Training Strategy 4-43 

Figure 4-20. Selected Training Tasks to Improve 1-77 IN METL Proficiency for METL 
Tasks: “Defend Against Level I and II Threats” and “Provide DS Level 
Combat Service Support” 4-44 



v 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Figure 4-21 . Training Strategy Summary 4-44 

Figure 4-22. Training Planning Process (Commander’s Guidance) 4-45 

Figure 4-23. Training Planning Process (Training Plans) 4-46 

Figure 4-24. Green-Amber-Red Time Management System 4-50 

Figure 4-25. Green-Red Time Management System 4-51 

Figure 4-26. Training Planning Process (Long-Range Planning) 4-53 

Figure 4-27. 52nd Infantry Division (Mech) Long-Range Planning Calendar Major 

Training Events 4-56 

Figure 4-28. Training Planning Process (Short-Range Planning) 4-57 

Figure 4-29. 52nd Infantry Division (Mech) Major Training Events, 2nd Quarter, FY 

XX 4-58 

Figure 4-30. 52nd Infantry Division (Mech) Short-Range Planning Cycle 4-60 

Figure 4-31. Multiechelon Training 4-62 

Figure 4-32. 1st BCT Major Training Events, 2nd Quarter, FY XX 4-63 

Figure 4-33. 1st BCT Short-Range Planning Cycle 4-63 

Figure 4-34. 1-77 Infantry Battalion Major Training Events, 2nd Quarter, FY XX 4-64 

Figure 4-35. 1-77 Infantry Battalion Short-Range Planning Cycle 4-65 

Figure 4-36. 1st BSB Major Training Events, 2nd Quarter, FY XX 4-66 

Figure 4-37. RC IN Battalion and Company Short-Range Training Plans (Major 

Events) 4-67 

Figure 4-38. RC BSB, Forward Maintenance Company, and Medical Company Short- 

Range Plans (Major Events) 4-67 

Figure 4-39. Purpose of Quarterly and Yearly Training Briefings 4-69 

Figure 4-40. Commanders’ Quarterly and Yearly Training Briefing Topics 4-69 

Figure 4-41. CSM and 1SG Quarterly and Yearly Training Briefing Topics 4-70 

Figure 4-42. Suggested Battalion Quarterly Training Briefing Participants 4-70 

Figure 4-43. Battalion Quarterly Training Briefing Benefits 4-71 

Figure 4-44. Training Planning Process (Near-Term Planning) 4-72 

Figure 4-45. Near-Term Training Planning 4-72 

Figure 4-46. A/1-77 Infantry Near-Term Planning Cycle 4-74 

Figure 4-47. A/1-77 Infantry Near-Term Planning Cycle (continued) 4-74 

Figure 4-48. Training Meetings 4-77 

Figure 4-49. Suggested Battalion Training Meeting Participants 4-78 

Figure 4-50. Suggested Company Training Meeting Participants 4-78 

Figure 4-51. Commander Responsibilities: Training Schedules 4-79 

Figure 4-52. Training Schedule Development (Weeks T-8 to T+1) 4-80 

Figure 4-53. Training Schedule Content 4-81 

Figure 4-54. Training Planning Process 4-82 

Figure 5-1. Training Execution 5-2 

Figure 5-2. Crawl-Walk-Run Training 5-5 

Figure 5-3. STX/LFX Training 5-8 

Figure 5-4. Staff Training Proficiency Levels 5-10 

Figure 5-5. Staff Crawl-Walk-Run Training 5-10 

Figure 5-6. Training Execution (Preparation for Training) 5-1 1 

Figure 5-7. Trainer Preparation Checklist 5-14 



VI 




Contents 

Figure 5-8. Sample Pre-Execution Checklist 5-15 

Figure 5-9. Selected Training Tasks to Improve A/1-77 IN METL Proficiency for 

METL Tasks: “Assault an Objective,” “Integrate Indirect Fire Support,” 

and “Breach an Obstacle” 5-17 

Figure 5-10. A/1-77 IN Commander’s Training Strategy 5-18 

Figure 5-1 1. 1st BCT and 1-77 IN 2nd Quarter Training (Major Events) 5-19 

Figure 5-12. STX/LFX Training Plan 5-20 

Figure 5-13. A/1-77 Leader Training 5-21 

Figure 5-14. A/1-77 IN Near-Term Training Plan (Jan-Feb XX) 5-22 

Figure 5-15. RC Infantry Battalion Near-Term Training Plan (Major Events) 5-23 

Figure 5-16. A/1-77 IN Trainer, Evaluator, and OC Training (Squad EVAL Force on 

Force Phase and LFX) 5-26 

Figure 5-17. A/1-77 IN Squad EVAL OPFOR Preparation (Force On Force Phase) 5-27 

Figure 5-18. A/1-77 IN Leader, Individual, Collective, and OPFOR Training Strategy 5-28 

Figure 5-19. A/1-77 IN Squad EVAL STX Site Preparation and Pre-Execution Checks 

(Force on Force and LFX Phases 5-29 

Figure 5-20. “Bottom-Up” METL Assessment Input (Headquarters and Distribution 

Company) 5-32 

Figure 5-21. “Bottom-Up” METL Assessment Input (Forward Maintenance Company) 5-33 

Figure 5-22. “Bottom-up” METL Assessment Input (Brigade Support Medical 

Company) 5-35 

Figure 5-23. BSB Commander’s Training Strategy 5-36 

Figure 5-24. BSB Company Commanders’ Training Strategies 5-37 

Figure 5-25. 1st BSB and 1st BCT 2nd Quarter Training (Major Events) 5-38 

Figure 5-26. HQ/Distribution Company, Forward Maintenance Company, and Brigade 

Support Medical Company 2nd Quarter Training (Major Events) 5-40 

Figure 5-27. BSB QRF OPFOR Preparation for 2nd Quarter Training (Major Events) 5-43 

Figure 5-28. 1st BSB Pre-Execution Checks for BSB FTX 5-44 

Figure 5-29. RC BSB Near-Term Training Plan (Major Events) 5-45 

Figure 5-30. Selected Main CP Cell and Element Training Tasks to Improve R&S 

Team Proficiency on the Staff Group Task: “Develop an R&S Plan” 5-47 

Figure 5-31 . Selected Main CP Cell and Element Training Tasks to Improve 

Targeting Team Proficiency on the Staff Group Task: “Execute Targeting 
Process” 5-47 

Figure 5-32. Selected Training Tasks to Improve BCT Targeting Team Proficiency on 

Staff Task: “Execute Targeting Process” 5-49 

Figure 5-33. Selected Intelligence Cell and BCT Ml Company Training Tasks to 

Improve BCT Staff Proficiency for “Develop an R&S Plan” 5-50 

Figure 5-34. Selected Training Tasks to Improve BCT METL Proficiency for METL 

Task: “Conduct an Attack” 5-51 

Figure 5-35. 1st BCT Commander’s Training Strategy 5-52 

Figure 5-36. 52nd IN Division and 1st BCT 2nd Quarter Training (Major Events) 5-53 

Figure 5-37. 1st BCT Main CP Staff Near-Term Training Plan (Jan-MarXX) 5-54 

Figure 5-38. 1st BCT Main Command Post ATCCS/FBCB2 Systems Training to 

Support R&S and Targeting Teams’ Preparation for Shaping Operations 
Exercise 5-55 

Figure 5-39. 1st BCT Main Command Post CP Cell, Cell Element, and Staff Section 

Training Tasks 5-56 

vii 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Figure 5-40. Staff Group Training — R&S Team Task: “Develop an R&S Plan” 5-57 

Figure 5-41 . Staff Group Training — Targeting Team Task: “Execute Targeting 

Process” 5-58 

Figure 5-42. Multiechelon Training Event in the 1st BCT Main CP Staff Near-Term 

Training Plan 5-59 

Figure 5-43. 1st BCT Staff Trainer, Evaluator/OC Training (2nd BCT EXEVAL) 5-60 

Figure 5-44. 2nd BCT EXEVAL OPFOR Preparation 5-61 

Figure 5-45. Site Preparation and Pre-Execution Checks for 1st BCT Shaping 

Operations Exercise 5-62 

Figure 5-46. Training Execution (Conduct of Training) 5-63 

Figure 5-47. Sample Pre-Combat Checks 5-64 

Figure 5-48. Retraining 5-66 

Figure 5-49. Training Execution (Recovery from Training) 5-67 

Figure 5-50. Overall Training Effectiveness AAR 5-68 

Figure 5-51. Training Execution 5-69 

Figure 6-1 . Sources of Evaluation Data for Organizational Assessments 6-3 

Figure 6-2. Uses of Types of Evaluations 6-6 

Figure 6-3. Contents of Evaluation and Control Plan 6-7 

Figure 6-4. Sample Evaluator Group Organization Worksheet 6-8 

Figure 6-5. Evaluator Training Topics 6-10 

Figure 6-6. Training Assessment 6-19 

Figure 6-7. Army Training Management Cycle 6-29 

Figure 6-8. Operations Process 6-30 

Figure 6-9. Army Training Management Cycle 6-30 

Figure A-1 . The Goal A-2 

Figure A-2. Key Elements of Leader Training and Leader Development Action Plan A-7 

Figure B-1. Suggested Company Training Meeting Participants B-2 

Figure B-2. Sample Training Meeting Agenda B-4 

Figure B-3. Assessment of Completed Training B-5 

Figure B-4. Preparation for Near-Term Training B-6 

Figure D-1. Training Exercise Selection Process D-2 

Figure D-2. Training for Mission Command — Nested Concepts D-4 

Figure D-3. Training for Mission Command (1st BCT) D-6 

Figure D-4. Training for Mission Command (1-77 IN) D-7 

Figure D-5. 1st BCT Main CP Staff Training Exercises D-8 

Figure D-6. BCT Shaping Operations Live Fire Exercise Concept D-9 

Figure D-7. BCT Shaping Operations Live Fire Exercise: UAV Platoon Conducting 

Surveillance and Target Acquisition Operations D-10 

Figure D-8. BCT Shaping Operations Live Fire Exercise: FA BN Acquire Targets and 

Deliver Fires D-1 1 

Figure D-9. BCT Shaping Operations Live Fire Exercise: FA BN Suppress Enemy Air 

Defenses D-1 1 

Figure D-10. BCT Shaping Operations Live Fire Exercise: Employ Attack Helicopters 

and CAS D-1 3 

Figure D-1 1 . BCT Shaping Operations Live Fire Exercise: UAV Platoon Battle 

Damage Assessment D-14 



viii 




Contents 



Figure D-12. Linking a Tank Company and Battalion Task Force Home Station 

Training with Battalion Task Force Live Fire at CTC D-15 

Figure F-1. Sample Slide 1: Battalion Mission F-2 

Figure F-2. Sample Slide 2: Unit Training Planned But Not Conducted F-2 

Figure F-3. Sample Slide 3: Commander’s METL Assessment F-3 

Figure F-4. Sample Slide 4: Commander’s Assessment (Subunits) F-3 

Figure F-5. Sample Slide 5: Division and Brigade Training Guidance F-4 

Figure F-6. Sample Slide 6: Battalion Commander’s Training Guidance F-4 

Figure F-7. Sample Slide 7: Battalion Commander’s Training Strategy F-5 

Figure F-8. Sample Slide 8: Current Quarter Calendar F-5 

Figure F-9. Sample Slide 9: Upcoming Quarter Calendar F-6 

Figure F-10. Sample Slide 10: Risk Management F-6 

Figure F-1 1 . Sample Slide 1 1 : Following Quarter Calendar F-7 

Figure F-12. Sample Slide 12: Ammunition Status/Allocation F-7 

Figure F-1 3. Sample Slide 13: Resources/Flying Hours F-8 

Figure F-14. Sample Slide 14: Range and Training Facility Allocations F-8 

Figure F-1 5. Sample Slide 15: Training Distracters F-9 

Figure F-16. Sample Slide 16: Training Lessons Learned F-9 

Figure F-17. Sample Slide 17: Battalion CSM Soldier Training Assessment F-10 

Figure F-18. Sample Slide 18: Soldier Training Planned But Not Conducted F-10 

Figure F-19. Sample Slide 19: Last/Current Quarter Soldier Training Assessment F-1 1 

Figure F-20. Sample Slide 20: Upcoming Quarter Soldier Training Plan F-1 1 

Figure F-21. Sample Slide 21: NCOES Status F-12 

Figure F-22. Sample Slide 22: School Status F-12 

Figure G-1 . Training Support System Products and Services G-2 

Figure G-2. Training Aids, Devices, Simulators, and Simulations (TADSS) Examples G-3 

Figure H-1 . Integration of Risk Management and Training Planning Processes H-2 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Tables 

Table 3-1 . RC T raining Management Roles 3-27 

Table 4-1 . BCT Commander’s Combined Arms Training Assessment, METL Task: 

“Conduct an Attack”: “P” 4-7 

Table 4-2. Squad Leader’s Training Assessment, Squad Critical Task: “Knock Out a 

Bunker”: “P” 4-10 

Table 4-3. 1st Platoon Leader’s Training Assessment, Platoon Critical Task: 

“Assault an Objective”: “P” 4-11 

Table 4-4. Company Commander’s Training Assessment, METL Task: “Assault an 

Objective”: “P” 4-12 

Table 4-5. Battalion Commander’s Training Assessment, METL Task: “Conduct an 

Attack”: “P” 4-14 

Table 4-6. Company FSO’s Training Assessment, Critical Task: “Coordinate Fire 

Support”: “P” 4-17 

Table 4-7. Battalion FSO’s Training Assessment, Critical Task: “Coordinate Fire 

Support”: “P” 4-18 

Table 4-8. ECOORD’s Training Assessment, METL Task: “Coordinate Fire 

Support”: “P” 4-19 

Table 4-9. Squad Leader’s Task Assessment, Squad Critical Tasks: “Set-up Squad 

Defense” and “Operate AXPs”: “P” 4-21 

Table 4-10. Ambulance Platoon Leader’s Training Assessment, Platoon Critical 
Tasks: “Set-up Platoon Defense” and “Provide Ground Ambulance 
Evacuation Support”: “P" 4-22 

Table 4-1 1 . Company Commander’s Training Assessment, Company METL Tasks: 

“Defend Unit Area” and “Perform Combat Health Support Operations”: 

“P” 4-23 

Table 4-12. Battalion Commander’s Training Assessment, METL Tasks: “Defend 
Against Level I and II Threats” and “Provide DS Level Combat Service 

Support”: “P” 4-24 

Table 4-13. BCT Staff Training Assessment, METL Task: “Conduct an Attack”:”P” 4-25 

Table 4-14. BCT Commander’s Combined Arms Training Assessment, METL Task: 

“Conduct an Attack”: “P” 4-26 

Table 4-15. BCT Commander’s BOS Training Assessment, METL Task: “Conduct 

Attack”: “P” 4-27 

Table 4-16. Live, Virtual, and Constructive Training Mix 4-33 

Table 4-17. Comparison of Long-Range, Short-Range, and Near-Term Training 

Planning 4-47 

Table 4-18. Active Component Long-Range Planning Cycle 4-54 

Table 4-19. Reserve Component Long-Range Planning Cycle 4-55 

Table 4-20. Active Component Short-Range Planning Cycle (Quarterly) 4-57 

Table 4-21. Reserve Component Short-Range Planning Cycle (Annually) 4-58 

Table 4-22. Active Component Near-Term Planning Cycle (Weekly) 4-73 

Table 4-23. Reserve Component Near-Term Planning Cycle (Monthly) 4-73 



x 




Contents 



Table 5-1. Individual Training Example: Ml 6A2 Preliminary Marksmanship 

Instruction (PMI) 5-24 

Table 6-1. Task Evaluation Matrix 6-9 

Table 6-2. Battalion Commander’s Training Assessment, METL Tasks: “Defend 
Against Level I and II Threats” and “Provide DS Level Combat Service 
Support”: “P” 6-27 

Table B-1. Time Requirements for Training Meetings B-4 




Preface 



3 



FM 7-1 is the Army’s doctrinal foundation for how to train, and it is applicable to all units and 
organizations of the Army. It explains how the Army assesses, plans, prepares, and executes 
training and leader development; it is critical to all the Army does. The goal of this manual is to 
create leaders who know how to think and apply enduring training principles to their units and 
organizations. 

FM 7-0 introduces the training cycle, the linkage of Army training and leader development, and 
the three domains where training occurs — the operational, institutional, and self-development 
domains. FM 7-1 defines The Army Training System, outlines who is responsible for training and 
training support, and describes how to conduct training. This top-to-bottom understanding of 
training — ranging from policy and resources allocation at Headquarters, Department of the 
Army to unit and organization methods — is critical to executing training successfully and to 
linking the three domains where training occurs. 

The training doctrine in this manual will shape Army training regulations and support unit and 
organization training plans. The emphasis is on teaching leaders to think through the training 
process, as opposed to simply following a prescribed method. There is no training model or 
strategy that can achieve warfighting readiness in a unit without intensive leadership to build 
both competence and confidence. 

FM 7-1 builds on task, condition, and standards-based training. Knowing the task, assessing the 
level of proficiency against the standard, and developing a sustaining or improving training plan 
is the essence of all Army training and development. But warfighting readiness is about more 
than just technical competence. It is about developing confidence through trust — soldier-to- 
soldier, leader-to-led, and unit-to-unit — and the will to succeed. It is about leadership. 

Understanding how to conduct tough, realistic training at every echelon of the Army sets the 
foundation for successful multiechelon, joint, interagency, and coalition operations. Leaders train 
the unit and organizational capabilities required to fight and win across the full spectrum of 
operations. This manual provides leaders with the doctrinal guidelines for how to train, and is 
the basis for successful training and operations. Soldiers have never let the nation fail — it is 
essential to train soldiers and units to uphold the Army’s nonnegotiable contract with the 
American people — to fight and win the nation’s wars, decisively. 

The proponent for this publication is U. S. Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). 
Send comments and recommendations on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and 
Blank Forms) to Commander, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center, CAC-T, Collective Training 
Directorate, ATTN: ATZL-CTD, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas 66027-6900. 

Direct email questions to the CTD Operations Officer at [email protected] 

Unless this publication states otherwise, masculine nouns and pronouns do not refer exclusively 
to men. 



XII 



Preface 



Copyright Permissions 

The copyright owners listed below have granted permission to reproduce material from their 
works. Other sources of quotations and material used in this book are listed in the References 
section. 



The quotation by General Douglas MacArthur in chapter 5 is reprinted from 
Robert D. Heinl, Dictionary of Military and Naval Quotations (Annapolis : U.S. Naval 
Institute Press, 1966) page 329. 

The quotation attributed to Confucius in chapter 6 is reprinted from Robert D. Heinl, 
Dictionary of Military and Naval Quotations (Annapolis : U.S. Naval Institute Press, 
1966) page 328. 

The quotation by SMA Silas L. Copeland in appendix B is reprinted from “The NCO 
Must Grow with the Army” Army Magazine, Arlington, VA, October 1972, page 25. 
Used with permission. 

The quotation by SMA William A. Connelly in appendix C is reprinted from “NCOs : 
It’s Time to Get Tough” Army Magazine, Arlington, VA, October 1981, page 30. Used 
with permission. 

The quotation by General George Patton Jr. in appendix G is reprinted from The 
Patton Papers, edited by Martin Blumenson. Copyright © 1972, 1974 by 
Martin Blumenson. Reprinted by permission of Houghton Mifflin Company. All 
rights reserved. 




Chapter 1 

How the Army Trains 



Every’ day in the Army we try’ to do two things well — train soldiers and grow them into 
leaders. 

General Eric K. Shinseki 



TRAINING OVERVIEW 

1-1. Field manual (FM) 7-0 establishes Army training doctrine. FM 7-1 
applies this doctrine to help unit leaders 
develop and execute training programs. It 
provides practical “how to” guidelines for 
officers and noncommissioned officers 
(NCO), including techniques and 
procedures for planning, preparing, 
executing, and assessing training. Above 
all, FM 7-1 builds on and emphasizes the 
importance of battle focused training 
described in FM 7 _ 0. 

1-2. FM 7-1 defines the roles, 
responsibilities, and linkages of the 
institutional, operational, and self- 
development domains within the Army 
Training and Leader Development Model 
(ATLDM). It provides training doctrine 
for current and future operating environments. FM 7-1 describes in detail 
Army training management at the brigade level and below; however, the 
principles and the fundamentals in FM 7-1 are applicable to the entire Army. 
Every day, every person in the Army is involved directly or indirectly in 
training soldiers and developing leaders. 

1-3. FM 7-1 provides a common training language for the Army. To this end, 
it describes — 

• Standardized training terms of reference. 

• Training management and execution systems and processes that 
support unit readiness. 

• Processes and products that support training and leader 
development. 

• Roles and responsibilities of the institutional, operational, and self- 
development domains to support full spectrum operations. 

1-4. While senior leaders determine the direction and goals of training, it is 
the officers and NCOs who ensure that every training activity is well planned 
and rigorously executed. 



CONTENTS 

Training Overview 1-1 

The Training Challenge 1-2 

Joint, Interagency, 
intergovernmental, 

Multinational Training 1-2 

The Army Training System 1-3 

The Army Training and Leader 

Development Model 1-4 

The Operational Army 1-5 

The Institutional Army 1-7 

Individual Self-Development 1-10 

Reserve Component Training 1-12 

Premobilization and 

Postmobilization Training 1-12 

Summary 1-13 



1-1 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



THE TRAINING CHALLENGE 

1-5. Since the end of the Cold War, the world has been in a state of 
significant transition marked by increased uncertainty and vulnerability. 
The strategic environment is much less stable than in the past, and threats 
to American interests are more diverse and less predictable. In this era of 
complex national security requirements, the Army must embrace a wider 
range of missions that present even greater training challenges. To “train 
the way we fight,” commanders and leaders must conduct training in a way 
that ensures mission performance in the contemporary operating 
environment. 

1-6. Training for warfighting readiness is the Army’s number one priority in 
peace and war. Army leaders at all levels are responsible for success on the 
battlefield. Training is a continuous, lifelong endeavor that produces 
competent, confident, disciplined, and adaptive soldiers and leaders with the 
warrior ethos in our Army. Commanders have two major training 
responsibilities: train their unit to accomplish the assigned mission, and 
develop soldiers and leaders for future responsibilities. 

1-7. Personnel turbulence, key-leader turnover, high operating tempo 
(OPTEMPO), and new equipment and systems fielding present a demanding 
set of training challenges. Resources for training are not unconstrained — they 
compete with other resource demands. Time is the inelastic resource — there 
is never enough, and it cannot be increased. All leaders must focus training 
on warfighting skills, and make that training the priority. Compliance 
training and non-mission activities are lower priority. If training cannot be 
conducted to standard, then commanders use readiness reports to inform the 
Army’s leadership of the risks being assumed. 

JOINT, INTERAGENCY, INTERGOVERNMENTAL, MULTINATIONAL TRAINING 

1-8. The purpose of joint training is to prepare the Army to execute missions 
as part of a joint force conducting joint military operations across the full 
spectrum of operations. Employing Army forces at the right place and time 
allows combatant commanders to conduct decisive land operations along with 
air, sea, and space-based operations. The Army provides either a Joint Force 
Land Component Commander (JFLCC) or a joint force commander (JFC) 
with trained and ready forces that expand the commander’s range of military 
options. Army commanders tailor and train forces to react quickly to any 
crisis. 

1-9. Commanders of major Army headquarters (Army Service component 
commander, corps or division) may serve as the joint or coalition force land 
component commander (JFLCC/CFLCC), as a combined forces commander 
(CFC), or as the joint task force commander (JTFC). To prepare to conduct 
these operations these headquarters conduct joint, interagency, 
intergovernmental, multinational, and Service-specific training. 

1-10. Joint training uses joint doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures 
(TTP), and involves more than one Service component. 

1-11. When two or more Services train together using their respective 
Service doctrine and TTP, they are conducting Service-sponsored 
interoperability training. Although not classified as joint training, Service- 
sponsored interoperability is a vital component of joint proficiency and 
readiness. 



1-2 




How the Army Trains 



1-12. Interagency training is training based on applicable standing operating 
procedures (SOPs). It is designed to prepare the Army to operate with other 
federal agencies (such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Central 
Intelligence Agency, Defense Intelligence Agency), private voluntary 
organizations, non-governmental organizations, and international 
organizations. 

1-13. Intergovernmental training is training based on applicable standing 
operating procedures (SOPs). It is designed to prepare the Army to operate 
with state and local government (for example, in a homeland defense role). 

1-14. Multinational training is training based on applicable multinational, 
joint and/or Service doctrine. It is designed to prepare organizations for 
multinational operations with other nations. 

1-15. The Army training doctrine in this manual provides commanders with 
the tools to develop adaptive leaders and organizations prepared to exercise 
command and control (C2) of joint and multinational forces and to operate 
with interagency and intergovernmental organizations. This training 
facilitates unity of effort. 

THE ARMY TRAINING SYSTEM 

1-16. The Army training system is a cooperative effort between the 
institutional Army, units and organizations, and individuals. The systems 
approach to training is the foundation of the Army training system. 

1-17. The systems approach to training is an analytical method that 
determines what tasks units are expected to perform on the battlefield, under 
what conditions they will perform the tasks, and the standard that they must 
achieve. It further identifies leader and individual tasks that units must 
perform to be successful in their battlefield tasks. Some of these tasks are 
designated as critical. 

1-18. The systems approach to training is the engine that drives many 
elements of the Army training system. It is the foundation for — 

• Doctrinal publications, such as Army Training and Evaluation 
Program-mission training plans (ARTEP-MTPs) and soldier training 
publications (STPs). 

• Institutional training programs of instruction (POIs) for initial 
military training (IMT) and within the Officer Education System 
(OES), the Warrant Officer Education System (WOES), and the 
Noncommissioned Officer Education System (NCOES). 

• Collective training strategies. 

1-19. The systems approach to training is the analytical basis for unit, 
leader, and individual training proficiency. It is the science of the training 
system. Commanders combine this science with the art of leadership to train 
their units to perform their warfighting missions. 

1-20. The Army training system focuses the Army’s training efforts on 
supporting training in the three domains in which training occurs : the 
operational domain, the institutional domain, and the self-development 
domain. 



1-3 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



THE ARMY TRAINING AND LEADER DEVELOPMENT MODEL 

1-21. The Army Training and Leader Development Model (ATLDM) 
(figure l-l) centers on developing trained and ready units led by competent 
and confident leaders. The model identifies the important interaction 
necessary to train soldiers now and to develop leaders for the future. The 
three core domains that shape the critical learning experiences throughout a 
soldier’s and leader’s career are the operational, institutional, and self- 
development domains. These domains interact to focus Army energy and 
resources on training and leader development. 




Figure 1-1. Army Training and Leader Development Model 

1-22. The Army is a profession, the profession of arms. Warfighting in 
defense of United States values and interests is the core competency of this 
profession. As a profession, the development of each member becomes the 
foundation, involving a lifelong devotion to duty both while in uniform and 
upon return to the civilian life. Professional development involves more than 
mastering technical skills. What is uniquely distinct to the military 
profession is its emphasis on not only what is to be accomplished, but how it 
is accomplished and with the full realization that the profession of arms may 
require of its members the supreme sacrifice. Professional development 
extends to inculcating the Army values of loyalty, duty, respect, selfless 
service, honor, integrity, and personal courage in every soldier to create a 
warrior ethos based on camaraderie and service to our nation. Professional 
education provides the foundation involving a variety of training domains 
ranging from institutional schooling, self-study, and operational experience to 
personal interaction with superiors, peers and subordinates. All of these 
interactions are essential in developing and understanding training and 
leader development for warfighting. 



1-4 





How the Army Trains 



COMMANDER’S RESPONSIBILITY 

1-23. The commander is responsible for the wartime readiness of all elements 
in the formation and is, therefore, the primary trainer. Training soldiers and 
developing leaders is the commander’s number one priority. Commanders 
observe and evaluate training and leader development at all levels of the 
organization. They provide feedback as coach, teacher, and mentor. They 
train to standard, not to time. 

NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER’S RESPONSIBILITY 

1-24. A great strength of the U.S. Army is its professional noncommissioned 
officer (NCO) corps, which takes pride in being responsible for the individual 
training of soldiers, crews, and small teams. NCOs conduct standards-based, 
performance-oriented, battle focused training. They — 

• Identify specific individual, crew, and small team tasks that support 
the unit’s collective mission essential tasks. 

• Plan, prepare, rehearse, and execute training. 

• Evaluate training and conduct after action reviews (AARs) to provide 
feedback to the commander on individual, crew, and small team 
proficiency. 

• Fulfill an important role by assisting in the professional development 
of the officer corps. 

THE OPERATIONAL ARMY 

1-25. Training in the operational Army includes home station training, 
combat training center (CTC) rotations, joint training exercises, and 
operational deployments in support of national objectives. Each of these 
training activities and operations provides opportunities for experiential 
learning. They enable participants to conduct assessments, and to plan, 
resource, conduct, and evaluate training for soldiers, leaders, and units. 
Training in the operational Army is a team effort. Each Army command 
echelon has specific training roles and responsibilities in the operational 
Army (figure 1-2). 



1-5 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 




Figure 1-2. The Operational Army 

HEADQUARTERS, DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 

1-26. Headquarters, Department of the Army (HQDA) is responsible for 
providing trained and equipped forces to combatant commanders. The HQDA 
staff proponent for discharging training-related responsibilities is the Army 
Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations and Plans (G3). The Army G3 
exercises staff supervision for — 

• Setting Army-wide training policy. 

• Developing Army capstone training concepts and doctrine. 

• Developing training-related strategies. 

• Obtaining funding and allocating resources for the Army Training 
Support System (TSS), training aids devices, simulators and 
simulations (TADSS), and range modernization and standardization 
plans. 

• Formulating and obtaining funding for CTC and home station 
training (HST) master plans. 

• Planning, coordinating, and scheduling new equipment fielding and 
training. 

• Advising the Chief of Staff of the Army (CSA) on joint interoperability 
training programs. 



1-6 









How the Army Trains 



MAJOR COMMANDS 

1-27. Major command (MACOM) key training roles and responsibilities are 
to — 

• Allocate funds for training programs and resources. 

• Establish command training policy. 

• Publish training guidance and major training event calendars. 

• Develop and publish mission essential task lists (METLs). 

• Supervise CTCs. 

• Support the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) exercise program. 

• Coordinate, manage, and resource new equipment training teams 
(NETT) to support new equipment training (NET). 

• Train and evaluate Army forces. 

• Manage, resource, and support the NCOES. 

CORPS 

1-28. Corps headquarters key training roles and responsibilities are to — 

• Distribute and manage training resources. 

• Establish command training policy. 

• Publish training guidance and major training event calendars. 

• Develop and publish METLs. 

• Designate corps battle tasks from subordinate divisions and corps 
troops METL. 

• Focus on preparation and execution of training on METL, corps staff, 
subordinate divisions, and corps troops METL tasks. 

• Evaluate corps troops organizations. 

DIVISIONS 

1-29. Division headquarters key training roles and responsibilities are to — 

• Prioritize and allocate training resources. 

• Establish command training policy. 

• Publish training guidance and major training event calendars. 

• Develop and publish METLs. 

• Designate division battle tasks from subordinate brigades and 
division troops METL. 

• Focus on preparation and execution of training on METL, division 
staff, subordinate brigades, and division troops METL tasks. 

• Evaluate battalions and division troops organizations. 

THE INSTITUTIONAL ARMY 

1-30. The institutional Army focuses on educating and training soldiers, 
leaders, and the civilian work force on the key knowledge, skills, and 
attributes required to operate in any environment. Institutional training and 
education enhances military knowledge, individual potential, initiative, and 
competence in warfighting skills. It infuses an ethos of service to the nation 
and the Army, and provides the educational, intellectual, and experiential 
foundation for success on the battlefield. The institutional Army (figure 1-3) 
has many contributing components that affect the Army’s training 
infrastructure. Three illustrative examples are : the Training and Doctrine 



1-7 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Command (TRADOC) and Department of the Army schools, the Army 
Installation Management Agency (IMA), and the Army Materiel Command 
(AMC). Together, they support collective and individual training, provide 
lifelong access to training resources for individual soldier or unit training, 
and provide and maintain necessary training, support facilities, and materiel. 



» Training Support 
(AT SC) 

* Standards & 
Requirements 

'• Accessions 



|HQDA| 

t 



MACOM 



* Planning 

* Programming 

* Budget Guidance & 
Garrison Funding 



TRADOC & DA 
ORGANIZATIONS 



Self Development & 
Leadership Schools 
& Tools 



Civilian 

Training 



t xxx 

. □ 

• BCTP ▲ XX 

• pcc | | 

* Battle Labs ' — -r — ' 

T — 



I * Provide Technology, Acquisition 
Support & Logistics 

| • HQDA Executive Agent for NET/AMTAS 

I * Assists TRADOC & FORSCOM in Supply | 
| & Maintenance Concepts, Doctrine, & 

| Training 



Develop Operational Plans & 
Army wide Standards 

Installation Supply 
Management & Unit Support 

Maintain Real Property, 
Training Facilities & Ranges 

Support Unit Commanders 



H 



OES 



WOES 



t 



IMA 



NOES 



Functional 






I MT 



* Deploy NETT 

* Train Units & 
Individuals 

* Support Unit 
Commanders 



AMC 



t 1 I 

* 



Figure 1-3. The Institutional Army 

TRAINING AND DOCTRINE COMMAND AND DEPARTMENT OF THE ARMY 
ORGANIZATIONS 



1-31. TRADOC and DA organizations provide institutional support to every 
soldier and civilian in the force throughout their Army career. Their primary 
contributions to the institutional Army include — 

• Recruiting and accessing officers, soldiers, and civilians into the force. 

• Conducting individual training for all ranks, including IMT, training 
within the OES, WOES, and NCOES, and continued developmental 
and sustainment training. IMT instills an appreciation for the Army, 
inspires the Army warrior ethos, and establishes Army values of 
loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal 
courage. 

• Conducting civilian leadership training for all grades to include 
managers, supervisors, and interns. 

• Providing leadership training and support for self-development. 

• Developing, producing, and distributing training support products to 
institutions, units, and individuals. 

• Resourcing, planning, programming, and scheduling of schools in 
concert with HQDA and MACOMs. 



1-8 





How the Army Trains 



• Developing concepts, requirements, and products in doctrine, 
organizations, training, material, leadership and education, 
personnel, and facilities. 

• Providing infrastructure for institutional training. 

ARMY INSTALLATION MANAGEMENT AGENCY 

1-32. The Army Installation Management Agency (IMA) provides efficient 
and effective management of installations worldwide to support readiness 
and training. IMA contributes to training by — 

• Providing planning, programming, and budgeting guidance and 
funding for installations. 

• Developing installation operational plans and standards. 

• Providing support to tenants and designated geographic area active 
component (AC) and reserve component (RC) units and activities. 

• Providing installation supply management and support to all 
organizations. 

• Maintaining real property, training facilities, and ranges. 

• Supporting tenant and mobilizing organizations to enable them to 
prepare for and execute operational missions. 

ARMY MATERIEL COMMAND 

1-33. The Army Materiel Command (AMC) is the Army’s primary provider of 
materiel readiness. It is a main source of technology, acquisition support, and 
logistics. AMC contributes to training by — 

• Conducting specialized materiel readiness training. 

• Serving as the HQDA G3 executive agent for planning and NET in 
coordination with the HQDA staff, TRADOC, FORSCOM, and other 
organizations. 

• Assisting TRADOC and FORSCOM with the development of supply 
and maintenance concepts and doctrine. 

• Assisting in the development and acquisition of specialized individual 
and collective training products. 

INSTITUTIONAL ARMY SUPPORT OF TRAINING 

1-34. The challenge for the institutional Army is to provide synchronized 
schooling, doctrine, training, and training support to the correct 
organizational levels of the Army — from HQDA to the individual — at the 
correct time to support and enable operational commanders. Providing 
synchronized support includes, for example — 

• Accessing and training new soldiers in the proper military 
occupational specialty (MOS) so they arrive in units at the right time 
trained in the right skills. 

• Providing doctrinal tools for planning, executing, and assessing 
training at all levels. 

• Creating new training courses and training support materials to keep 
pace with new doctrine and equipment. 

• Providing installation and logistical support to enhance unit 
operations, regardless of their mission. 

• Timing all activities to support and enable the training and 
operational requirements of commanders. 



1-9 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



INDIVIDUAL SELF-DEVELOPMENT 

1-35. Individual self-development, both structured and informal, focuses on 
taking those actions necessary to reduce or eliminate the gap between 
operational and institutional experiences. Individual self- development is 
continuous. It should be emphasized in both institutional and operational 
assignments. Commanders and leaders provide feedback to enable 
subordinates to identify their own strengths and weaknesses and to 
determine the reasons for them. Together the senior and subordinate 
prioritize the subordinate’s self-development goals and determine courses of 
action to improve performance. 

1-36. Institutional and operational training and assignments and leader 
development programs alone cannot provide the insight, intuition, 
imagination, and judgment needed in combat. The gravity of the military 
profession requires comprehensive self-study and training. Individual self- 
development affects soldiers, civilian work force members, leaders, and 
supervisors of all grades, regardless of unit assignment, type of organization, 
current duty position, or location. The need for individual self-development 
requires commanders and leaders in the operational and institutional 
Armies, at all levels, to create an environment that encourages subordinates 
to establish personal and professional development goals. Successful self- 
development requires a team effort. 

1-37. The ATLDM identifies an important interaction that trains soldiers 
now and develops leaders for the future. Self-development plays an important 
part in this. Initially focused on basic individual soldier/leader skills, self- 
development expands to sustain those skills and evolves to support new 
technical skills, tactical skills, leader skills, and personal education goals. 
The key to success is self-assessment with feedback provided by the leader or 
supervisor. 

1-38. Self- development starts with an assessment of individual strengths, 
weaknesses, potential, and developmental needs. Commanders and leaders 
provide feedback that enables subordinates to determine the reasons for their 
strengths and weaknesses. Together, they prioritize self-development near- 
term and long-term goals and determine courses of action to improve 
performance. Self-development is — 

• A planned process involving the leader and the subordinate being 
developed. It enhances previously acquired skills, knowledge, behaviors, 
and experience; contributes to personal development; and highlights the 
potential for progressively more complex and higher-level assignments. 
Self- development focuses on maximizing individual strengths, 
minimizing weaknesses, and achieving individual personal and 
professional development goals. 

• Initially very structured and generally narrow in focus. The focus 
broadens as individuals understand their strengths and weaknesses, 
determine their individual needs, and become more experienced. Each 
soldier’s knowledge and perspective increases with experience, 
institutional training, and operational assignments, and is accelerated 
and broadened by specific, goal-oriented self-development actions. 



1-10 




How the Army Trains 



RESPONSIBILITIES 

1-39. Leaders are responsible for their subordinate’s professional 
development as well as their own. Commanders must provide subordinates 
with the time and opportunity for self-development programs. The 
integration of self-development, leader development, and operational 
assignments comes from the feedback, coaching, mentoring, and guidance 
provided by leaders. 

1-40. The pattern for Army civilian employees and leaders in operational or 
institutional assignments following their initial training and education is 
similar to that of their uniformed counterparts. The assignment path along 
which civilian employees generally progress consists of four broad phases : 
intern, supervisory, managerial, and executive. Because of the range of skills 
and entry positions of first-time-hire DA civilians and their career 
development models, they are not required to pass through each phase 
sequentially. This is where a carefully planned self- development program, 
closely coordinated with one’s supervisor, becomes critical. 

1-41. Commanders and supervisors must understand why self-development 
activities are an integral part of their organizational training plan. Senior 
leaders are often judged by how well their subordinates perform as much as 
by how they themselves perform. 

INDIVIDUAL SELF-DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT OF UNIT TRAINING 

1-42. Operational assignments translate theory into practice. They place 
soldiers, leaders, and civilians in positions to apply skills acquired during 
institutional training and education and self-development programs. 
Individuals learn and practice skills necessary for individual and collective 
training as they continually go through the planning, execution, and 
assessment phases of the self-development process. 

1-43. Individual self-development is linked with both institutional and 
operational assignments — 

• Individual self-development programs continue regardless of duty 
assignment. 

• Individual self-development programs are transient and move with 
the individual between the various operational and institutional 
assignments. 

• Institutional assignments provide resident self-development courses, 
distributed learning tools, and exportable educational technologies 
that support self-development. 

• Operational assignments provide current and future self-development 
opportunities. 

• Individual self-development reinforces the values, warrior ethos, 
ethics, and standards that permeate Army culture. 

• Commanders, leaders, and supervisors in operational and 
institutional assignments provide the time, planning, and feedback 
individuals require for self-development. 



1-11 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



RESERVE COMPONENT TRAINING 

1-44. The Army consists of the active component (AC) and the reserve 
component (RC). The AC is a Federal force of full-time soldiers and DA 
civilians. The RC consists of the Army National Guard (ARNG), the United 
States Army Reserve (USAR), and their civilian support personnel. While 
each component is established under different statutes and has unique and 
discrete characteristics, all share the same doctrine and training 
management process, and they train to the same standard. However, the RC 
trains at lower echelons, and the number of tasks trained differs as a result 
of the organization and training time available. While the process is the 
same, there is a significant difference between AC and RC planning 
timelines. Commanders at all echelons in RC organizations and units assess 
training, provide guidance, and publish training plans. 

1-45. The RC represents a large portion of the Army’s deterrence and 
warfighting power. They are an integral part of the force. However, available 
training time has a significant impact on RC training. RC units have a 
limited number of available training days. Geographic dispersion of units also 
impacts RC training. An average reserve battalion is spread over a 150 to 300 
mile radius. Additionally, most reserve units travel an average of 150 miles 
to the nearest training area. Individual soldiers often travel an average of 40 
miles to their training sites. 

1-46. Some RC soldiers may be assigned to a unit prior to MOS qualification; 
therefore, the RC may have fewer MOS-qualified personnel assigned than 
their AC counterparts. Additionally, even though doctrine requires trained 
leaders to train units and soldiers, RC leaders may be unable to attend 
professional military education until after assignment to their units. Priority 
of training for RC units is given to individual duty military occupational 
specialty qualification (DMO SQ) and professional development to produce 
qualified soldiers and leaders. 

1-47. Training readiness oversight (TRO) is the authority executed over 
assigned Army forces, including the RC forces, when they are not on active 
duty, and when they are on active duty for training (ADT). It includes 
authority to — 

• Establish training criteria, and evaluate and oversee the training of 
assigned RC forces. 

• Coordinate and approve participation by assigned RC forces in joint 
exercises and other joint training when on ADT or performing initial 
active duty for training (IADT). 

• Obtain and review readiness and inspection reports of assigned RC 
forces. 

• Review mobilization plans developed for assigned RC forces. 

PREMOBILIZATION AND POSTMOBILIZATION TRAINING 

1-48. Mobilization is not the start point for planning battle focused training. 
RC units have premobilization readiness and postmobilization training 
requirements. Premobilization training plans must be developed and 
approved for the current fiscal and training year. Postmobilization training 
plans must be integrated with the premobilization training plans and 
updated and approved for each training year as well. 



1-12 




How the Army Trains 



1-49. Premobilization training is directly linked to postmobilization training. 
A critical objective is to identify achievable, sustainable training 
requirements, which provide the focus for effective premobilization unit 
training. RC commanders train their units to standard on established 
premobilization tasks. 

1-50. Postmobilization expands organizational training, raises the echelon 
trained, and increases the amount of multiechelon and combined arms 
training accordingly. Postmobilization plans are created at the same time as 
premobilization plans and are updated regularly as premobilization training 
and revised commanders training assessments are completed. 

PREMOBILIZATION TRAINING PLANS 

1-51. Premobilization training focuses on company-level individual and 
collective tasks. Staffs train on individual and collective tasks at the level 
organized. Premobilization training plans identify training requirements, 
training events, equipment, and training support packages to train to sustain 
task proficiency. Proficiency in these tasks enables training to full METL 
proficiency when the unit is mobilized. The annual training (AT) plan 
generally focuses on preparation for and execution of AT. 

POSTMOBILIZATION TRAINING PLANS 

1-52. Postmobilization training focuses on company-level and above collective 
tasks. These plans identify training requirements, training events, 
equipment, and training support packages needed to train the unit to full 
METL proficiency upon mobilization. Postmobilization plans are updated 
annually and reflect input from the execution of the premobilization plan. 
The commander who approves the unit’s METL and yearly training plan 
(YTP) also approves the postmobilization plan. The plan is then provided to 
the mobilization station commander where the postmobilization training will 
occur. 

1-53. Garrison commanders are responsible for supporting the execution of 
postmobilization training activities. They determine resource requirements 
and develop plans to support the unit to reach its deployment training 
requirement. RC commanders conduct periodic visits with the supporting 
garrison commander to inspect training areas and facilities, identify and 
resolve support challenges, and clarify and refine training support 
requirements. 



SUMMARY 



1-54. Army training has one purpose — to produce competent, confident, 
adaptive soldiers, leaders, and units, trained and ready to fight and win our 
nation’s battles. The ATLDM integrates the operational, institutional, and 
self-development domains into a training management system. The 
commander is responsible for unit training and integrates the operational, 
institutional, and individual self-development domains to train combat-ready 
units. Commanders are responsible for the wartime readiness of every aspect 
of their unit, while NCOs train individual soldiers, crews, and small teams. 
All training focuses on the METL, and all factors involved in training lead to 
unit readiness. Training is the Army’s number one priority. Training is ‘‘‘'what 
we do, not something we do.” 



1-13 




Chapter 2 

Battle Focused Training 



The key to fighting and winning is an understanding of “how we train to fight’’ at every’ 
echelon. Training programs must result in demonstrated tactical and technical 
competence, confidence, and initiative in our soldiers and their leaders. Training will 
remain the Army ’s top priority because it is the cornerstone of combat readiness! 

General Carl E. Vuono 



2-1. Commanders train their units to be combat ready. Training is their 
number one priority. Commanders achieve combat readiness using tough, 
realistic, and challenging training. At 
every level, commanders must train to the 
Army standard. Battle focus is a concept 
used to derive peacetime training 
requirements from the wartime 
operational mission. This enables the 
commander to plan and execute training 
that produces lethal units for success on 
the battlefield. Using the Army Training 
Management Cycle, the commander 
continuously plans, prepares, executes, and assesses the state of training 
in the unit. This cycle provides the framework for commanders to develop 
their unit’s METL, establish training priorities, and allocate resources. 

2-2. Commanders and leaders at all levels use the principles of training 
to develop and execute effective training. As commanders train their 
units on METL tasks, senior commanders reinforce training by approving 
and protecting training priorities and providing resources. 



CONTENTS 

Principles of Training 2-1 

Commanders and Training 2-11 

Top-Down/Bottom-Up Approach to 

Training 2-14 

Battle Focus 2-14 

Army Training Management Cycle ..2-16 
Summary 2-16 



PRINCIPLES OF TRAINING 

2-3. There are ten principles of training. The principles are shown in 
figure 2-1. 



S Commanders are Responsible for Training 
•S NCOs Train Individuals, Crews, and Small Teams 
■S Train as a Combined Arms and Joint Team 
■S Train for Combat Proficiency 
•A Realistic Conditions 
■S Performance-Oriented 
Train to Standard Using Appropriate Doctrine 

✓ Train to Adapt 

Train to Maintain and Sustain 
'A Train Using Multiechelon Techniques 
•S Train to Sustain Proficiency 

✓ Train and Develop Leaders 



Figure 2-1. Principles of Training 



2-1 








FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



COMMANDERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR TRAINING 

2-4. Commanders are responsible for the training and performance of 
their soldiers and units. They are the primary training managers and 
trainers for their organization, are actively engaged in the training 
process, and adhere to the principles of training. To fulfill their training 
responsibility, commanders and leaders at each echelon — 

• Should be present and lead training. 

• Base training on the METL. 

• Provide the required resources. 

• Train to the Army standard. 

• Develop and execute training plans that result in proficient 
individuals, leaders, and units. 

• Incorporate risk management into all aspects of training. 

• Assess current levels of proficiency. 

2-5. Commanders and leaders at all levels must be personally involved in 
training. Brigade commanders train battalion commanders and staffs. 
Battalion commanders train company commanders with their companies; 
company commanders train platoon leaders with their platoons; platoon 
leaders train squad leaders with their squads; and NCOs train 
individuals, crews, and small teams. The command sergeant major 
(CSM), first sergeant (lSG), and platoon sergeant (PSG) actively 
participate in leader training and leader development. A detailed 
discussion of leader training and leader development is found in 
appendix A. 

NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS TRAIN INDIVIDUALS, CREWS, AND SMALL TEAMS 

2-6. Noncommissioned officers (NCOs) are responsible for conducting 
standards-based, performance-oriented, battle focused training. They 
identify specific individual, crew, and small team tasks that support the 
unit’s collective mission essential tasks. They plan, prepare, rehearse, 
and execute training; evaluate training, conduct AARs and provide 
feedback to the commander on individual, crew, and small team 
proficiency. Senior NCOs coach junior NCOs and officers to master a wide 
range of individual and leader tasks. They use the training management 
process to focus training on the most important individual tasks — those 
critical to the collective tasks being trained. 

2-7. NCOs continue the soldierization process of newly assigned enlisted 
soldiers, and begin their professional development. Not all skill level 1 
tasks can be trained in IMT. Skill level 1 tasks not trained in IMT must 
be trained in the units. The tasks trained by the unit vary by MOS, 
depending on the task’s complexity. NCOs are responsible for completing 
the training of newly assigned enlisted soldiers by training them to 
standard on the skill level 1 tasks not trained in IMT. 



2-2 




Battle Focused Training 



TRAIN AS A COMBINED ARMS AND JOINT TEAM 

2-8. The Army provides the JFC with a trained and ready force able to 
execute full spectrum operations. This force provides the JFC with the 
capability to — 

• Seize areas previously denied by the enemy. 

• Dominate land operations. 

• Provide support to civil authorities. 

2-9. Army forces seldom operate unilaterally. Corps and division 
headquarters may serve as either a joint task force headquarters or as a 
joint or combined force land component headquarters to provide 
command and control of joint or coalition forces. Many of the tasks 
necessary to execute these missions are the same as for Army forces, but 
are based on joint and multinational doctrine. Corps and division 
headquarters train on these tasks periodically, based on MACOM 
guidance or contingency plans. 

2-10. The basis for the organization and operation of Army forces is 
combined arms. Combined arms is the integrated application of several 
arms to achieve an effect on the enemy that is greater than if each arm 
was used separately or in sequence. Integration involves the arrangement 
of battlefield actions in time, space, and purpose for maximum effects of 
combat power at a decisive place and time. Commanders and their staffs 
integrate and synchronize the battlefield operating systems (BOS) to 
achieve combined arms effects and accomplish the mission. 

2-11. Today’s Army doctrine emphasizes teamwork at all echelons. When 
committed to battle, each unit must be prepared to execute operations 
without additional training or lengthy adjustment periods. Leaders must 
regularly practice task organization of all combat, combat support (CS), 
and combat service support (CSS) units. Teams achieve combined arms 
proficiency and cohesiveness when they train together. Peacetime 
training relationships must mirror wartime task organization to the 
greatest extent possible. 

2-12. Commanders are responsible for training all warfighting systems. 
The full integration of the combined arms team is attained through the 
task organization approach to training management. Task organizing is a 
temporary grouping of forces to accomplish a particular mission, and they 
are habitually associated for peacetime training. An example of a task- 
organized brigade and its warfighting systems is depicted in figure 2-2. 

2-13. The commander is responsible for the training of all elements of the 
formation, and must develop a training plan that addresses two 
complementary challenges: the unit must both be proficient in the 
functional tasks and be able to conduct combined arms operations. For 
example, "attack" may be a corps or division METL task. The 
commander, with the task-organized subordinate unit commanders, 
develops training scenarios, events, and exercises that integrate the 
relevant functional tasks that support execution of an “attack.” 



2-3 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



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2-14. Functional task proficiency of subordinate units is an essential 
prerequisite for effective combined arms training. Each supporting unit 
commander performs an analysis to determine specific functional and 
technical training requirements necessary for effective execution of a 
deliberate attack. For example, the corps or division engineer coordinator 
(ENCOORD) could identify “conduct mobility operations” as the critical 
engineer functional task. 

2-15. The combined arms training challenge is the same for all echelons 
of command. The complexity, however, increases at each higher echelon. 
The tempo, scope, and scale of operations at higher command echelons 
increase coordination requirements for planning and executing staff, 
joint, interagency, and multinational training. Commanders, from 
company through corps, focus combined arms training based on their 
METL. Figure 2-3 illustrates the scope and scale of the combined arms 
training challenge from company to corps. 



2-4 












Battle Focused Training 





Figure 2-3. Combined Arms Training — Scope and Scale 



TRAIN FOR COMBAT PROFICIENCY 

2-16. The goal of all training is to achieve the Army standard. Within the 
confines of safety and common sense, commanders and leaders must be 
willing to accept less than perfect results initially and demand realism in 
training. Commanders integrate realistic conditions such as imperfect 
intelligence; reduced communications; smoke; noise; rules of engagement 
(ROE); simulated nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) environments; 
battlefield debris; loss of key leaders; civilians on the battlefield; joint, 
interagency, intergovernmental, and multiagency (JIIM) requirements; 
and varying extremes in weather. Commanders take every opportunity to 
move soldiers out of the classroom into the field, fire weapons, maneuver 
as a combined arms team, and incorporate protective measures against 
enemy actions. CTCs provide the most realistic and challenging training 
experience in the Army; however, they should not be viewed as an “end 
point” in the unit training life cycle. Rather, they provide a “go to war 
experience” that allows commanders to assess their METL proficiency 
and determine the effectiveness of their training program. Additionally, 
commanders must maximize resources and time by training in all 
available training environments — live, virtual, and constructive (LrV-C). 

Realistic Conditions 

2-17. Tough, realistic, and intellectually and physically challenging 
training excites and motivates soldiers and leaders. Realistic training — 

• Builds competence and confidence by developing and honing 
skills. 

• Instills loyalty and dedication to the unit through a shared sense 
of accomplishment. 



2-5 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



• Inspires excellence by fostering initiative, enthusiasm, and 
eagerness to learn. 

• Develops aggressive, well-trained, disciplined soldiers. 

2-18. Leaders must make conditions in training as close to wartime 
conditions as possible. Innovative leaders seize every opportunity to 
increase training challenges for soldiers, leaders, and units. Successful 
completion of each training event increases the capability and motivation 
of individuals and units for more sophisticated and advanced training. 
This is the commanders’ continuous quest. 

2-19. Conducting realistic training is challenging business. Commanders 
incorporate risk management throughout their mission planning and 
execution to identify risk or other factors that will hinder mission 
accomplishment, and take action to reduce or mitigate the risk. 
Accordingly, risk management is a critical command and leader function 
that encompasses more than a single event or a learned process. It is both 
an art and a science. Risk management enables commanders and leaders 
to identify, control, and mitigate hazards proactively. 

2-20. The scope of risk management extends well beyond the “enemy” in 
mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support available, time 
available, and civil considerations (METT-TC). Commanders must also 
consider potential risks, such as the experience of their soldiers and 
leaders, their training proficiency, adverse terrain, the weather, and the 
time available to accomplish the mission. Because training and combat 
conditions are dynamic, risk management must be a continuous process 
throughout training and combat operations and be embedded in the 
military decisionmaking process (MDMP). 

Performance-Oriented 

2-21. Performance-oriented training is hands-on and conducts the task 
under the conditions and to the standard specified. Soldiers and leaders 
must be proficient in the basic skills required to perform their wartime 
missions under battlefield conditions. Units become proficient in the 
performance of critical tasks and missions by repeatedly practicing the 
tasks and missions to standard. Soldiers learn best through repetition, 
using a hands-on approach. 

2-22. Soldiers train better, faster, and to a higher degree of proficiency 
when they know the task, condition, and standard. Likewise, training is 
more effective when it is performance-oriented and standards-based. 
Enforcing standards allows leaders to identify and correct training 
deficiencies, resulting in a more accurate assessment of combat 
capabilities. 

2-23. The complexity of the conditions is increased as soldier performance 
levels increase, while the standard remains constant. Soldiers and 
leaders must execute the planned training, evaluate performance, and 
retrain until the Army standard is achieved under the most realistic 
conditions possible. They must evaluate and reinforce individual skills at 
each opportunity. 

2-24. The same standard must be enforced whether performed 
individually or as part of a larger operation. For example, the squad 
leader enforces individual movement techniques during squad training as 



2-6 




Battle Focused Training 



well as when the techniques are executed as part of a company attack 
exercise. Soldier and leader task training must occur continuously and be 
fully integrated into the collective training plan. 

TRAIN TO STANDARD USING APPROPRIATE DOCTRINE 

2-25. Training must be done to the Army standard and conform to Army 
doctrine. When mission tasks involve emerging doctrine or non-standard 
tasks, commanders establish the tasks, conditions, and standards using 
mission orders and guidance, lessons learned from similar operations, 
and their professional judgment. The next higher commander approves 
the standards for these tasks. FM 3-0 provides the doctrinal foundations. 
Supporting doctrinal manuals describe common TTP that permit 
commanders and organizations to adjust rapidly to changing situations. 
Doctrine provides the basis for a common vocabulary across the force. 
Therefore, units must train to the Army standard contained in ARTEP- 
MTPs and STPs, while applying Army doctrine and current regulatory 
guidance. 

2-26. While serving as a joint headquarters and performing joint tasks, 
Army organizations use joint doctrine and TTP. Joint doctrine establishes 
the fundamentals of joint operations and provides guidance on how best 
to employ joint forces. Army doctrine is consistent with and nested in 
joint doctrine. 



TRAIN TO ADAPT 

2-27. Commanders train and develop adaptive leaders and units, and 
prepare their subordinates to operate in positions of increased 
responsibility. Commanders intensify training experiences by varying 
training conditions, making them increasingly difficult and 
unpredictable. Repetitive and increasingly complex training gives 
soldiers and leaders a foundation that can be used to adapt to new 
situations. Commanders establish a training environment that 
encourages initiative and innovation, and recognize the benefits of 
allowing leaders the opportunity to learn from their mistakes. 

2-28. Training experiences coupled with timely feedback build 
competence. Leaders build confidence when they consistently 
demonstrate competence in tasks. Competence, confidence, and discipline 
promote initiative and enable leaders to adapt to changing situations and 
conditions. Leaders improvise with the resources at hand, exploit 
opportunities, and accomplish the assigned mission within the 
commander’s intent in the absence of orders. Commanders at every 
echelon integrate training events in their training plans to develop and 
train imaginative, adaptive leaders and units. 

TRAIN TO MAINTAIN AND SUSTAIN 

2-29. Maintenance is essential for sustained operations; therefore, 
maintenance must be a routine part of how the Army operates and trains. 
Soldiers and leaders are responsible for maintaining all assigned 
equipment in a high state of readiness to support training or operational 
missions. Units must be capable of fighting for sustained periods of time 
with the equipment they are issued. Soldiers must become experts in 
both the operation and maintenance of their equipment. This link 



2-7 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



between operations and maintenance is vital to mission success and must 
be emphasized in training. 

2-30. The standard for the Army is to train to maintain to the published 
standards in the technical manual (TM)-10 series and TM-20 series. 
Maintenance is vital to mission accomplishment. METL cannot be 
executed if essential equipment and systems (such as tracks, weapons, 
wheeled vehicles, or radios) are non-mission capable (NMC). Everyone — 
leaders, maintenance personnel, and operators — must be trained and 
involved in maintaining and sustaining the organization. 

2-31. In war, soldiers and crews perform preventive maintenance checks 
and services (PMCS) under combat conditions. This requires equipment 
and vehicle operators and maintenance personnel who are proficient in 
their maintenance duties. Leaders must carefully plan training objectives 
for maintenance periods and ensure that the objectives are achieved. 
Leaders must train soldiers to meet Army maintenance standards. 
Success on the battlefield requires well-honed tactical and maintenance 
skills. 

2-32. Commanders must ensure that the unit is prepared to maintain 
equipment under battlefield conditions. Organizations must train all 
levels of maintenance to include maintenance of — 

• Individual soldier equipment, such as common table of allowances 
(CTA) 50, individual weapons, protective masks, and other 
individual NBC clothing, and equipment. 

• Crew served weapons and equipment, such as NBC monitoring 
and detection equipment, night vision and position locating 
devices, etc. 

• Major end items, such as tracked and wheeled vehicles, 
helicopters, shop vans and their associated subsystems (such as 
armament, automotive, communications, electronics, and 
computers). 

2-33. Maintenance is training. Scheduled maintenance allows units to 
train to maintain and sustain. Time must be allotted for maintenance 
and other logistical personnel (for example, supply, cooks, medics, and 
mechanics) to maintain their equipment to standard. 

2-34. The training schedule also includes PMCS, equipment services, and 
command maintenance periods. Soldiers must understand PMCS 
requirements and how they are executed. Leaders must train soldiers to 
maintain entire systems, not just pieces of a system. For example, a 
Bradley fighting vehicle (BFV) squad focuses on maintaining weapons, 
radios, basic issue items (BII), and NBC equipment, as well as the 
vehicle. Maintenance training periods must be planned, prepared, 
executed, and evaluated (have AARs conducted) with the same intensity 
as other training events. These periods should have clear, focused, and 
measurable objectives. Normally, they are informally evaluated by the 
chain of command. 

2-35. The commanders, CSMs, and lSGs instill in soldiers and leaders 
the importance of keeping equipment in the fight. The commander 
reviews the unit maintenance proficiency based on readiness standards, 
completion of scheduled equipment services, and identified training 
weaknesses. The commander adjusts the emphasis of the unit’s 



2-8 




Battle Focused Training 



maintenance training program to correct identified shortcomings during 
the weekly training meeting. 

TRAIN USING MULTIECHELON TECHNIQUES 

2-36. Multiechelon training is the most effective and efficient way to 
sustain proficiency on mission essential tasks with limited time and 
resources. Commanders use multiechelon training to — 

• Train leaders, staffs, units, and individuals at each echelon of the 
organization simultaneously. 

• Maximize use of allocated resources and available time. 

• Reduce the effects of personnel turbulence. 

2-37. All multiechelon training techniques have the following distinct 
characteristics : 

• They require detailed planning and coordination by commanders 
and leaders at each echelon. 

• They habitually train at least two echelons simultaneously on 
selected METL tasks, associated battle tasks, or supporting 
collective and individual tasks. 

TRAIN TO SUSTAIN PROFICIENCY 

2-38. Once individuals and units have trained to the required level of 
proficiency, leaders must structure individual and collective training 
strategies to retrain critical tasks at the minimum frequency necessary 
for sustainment. Sustainment training is the key to maintain unit 
proficiency through, for example, personnel turbulence, operational 
deployments, and NET. ARTEP-MTPs and STPs are tools to help achieve 
and sustain collective and individual proficiency. Sustainment training 
must occur often enough to train new soldiers as they arrive in the unit 
and minimize skill decay. Army units train to accomplish their missions 
by frequent sustainment training on critical tasks. Infrequent “peaking” 
of training for an event (CTC rotation, for example) does not sustain 
wartime proficiency. Battle focused training is training on wartime tasks. 
Many of the METL tasks on which a unit trains for its wartime mission 
are the same as those required for a stability or support operation. This 
prepares a unit for the entire spectrum of missions that it may execute. 

2-39. Sustainment training enables units to operate in a Band of 
Excellence through appropriate repetition of critical tasks using a 
mixture of L-V-C training. The Band of Excellence is the range of 
proficiency within which a unit is capable of executing its critical wartime 
METL tasks. Training to sustain proficiency in the Band of Excellence 
includes training leaders, staffs, and units. Units fluctuate in proficiency 
because of many factors, such as training frequency, key personnel 
turnover, new equipment fielding, and resource constraints. The 
commander takes these factors into consideration when assessing the 
unit’s readiness and developing the training strategy. Well-trained units 
minimize peaking for selected events or at predetermined times. 

2-40. An example of how a commander planned the yearly sustainment 
training to remain in the Band of Excellence is illustrated in figure 2-4. 
The solid black line shows the results of an effective unit training 
strategy that sustains training proficiency over time, maintaining it 



2-9 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



within the Band of Excellence. The plan schedules critical training at the 
minimum frequency necessary for sustainment. The dotted black line 
shows an ineffective training strategy that often causes the unit to fall 
outside the Band of Excellence, requiring significant additional training 
before the unit is capable of executing its critical wartime tasks. 




Figure 2-4. Band of Excellence 

2-41. This common sense approach of training to sustain proficiency 
precludes deep valleys in proficiency that would otherwise require a 
significant amount of resources and time to retrain the unit to standard 
on its wartime mission. This strategy keeps proficiency within the Band 
of Excellence. 

TRAIN AND DEVELOP LEADERS 

2-42. Commanders have a vital role in leader training and leader 
development. It is their duty to teach subordinates how to fight and how 
to train. They also teach soldiers and leaders how to think, not what to 
think. They mentor, guide, listen to, and “think with” subordinates. They 
train leaders to plan training in detail, prepare for training thoroughly, 
execute training aggressively, conduct effective AARs, and evaluate 
short-term training proficiency in terms of desired long-term results. 
Training and developing leaders is an embedded component of every 
training event. Nothing is more important to the Army than building 
confident, competent, adaptive leaders for tomorrow. 



2-10 




Battle Focused Training 



COMMANDERS AND TRAINING 

2-43. Effective training is the number one priority of commanders. The 
commander is the primary trainer. In war, training continues with a 
priority second only to combat or to the support of combat operations. 
Commanders and senior leaders must extract the greatest training value 
from every training opportunity. Effective training requires the 
commander’s continuous personal time and energy to accomplish the 
following goals: 

• Develop and communicate a clear vision. 

• Train one echelon below and evaluate two echelons below. 

• Require subordinates to understand and perform their roles in 
training. 

• Train all elements to be proficient in their mission essential 
tasks. 

• Train and develop subordinates. 

• Assist subordinates with self-development program. 

• Involve themselves personally in planning, preparing, executing, 
and assessing training. 

• Demand that training standards be achieved. 

• Ensure proper task and event discipline. 

• Foster a command climate that is conducive to good training. 

• Manage training distracters. 

• Incorporate risk management. 

DEVELOP AND COMMUNICATE A CLEAR VISION 

2-44. The senior leader’s training vision provides the direction, purpose, 
and motivation necessary to prepare individuals and organizations to win 
in battle. It is based on a comprehensive understanding of the following: 

• Mission, doctrine, and history. 

• Enemy/threat capabilities. 

• Operational environment. 

• Organizational and personnel strengths and weaknesses. 

• Training environment. 

TRAIN ONE ECHELON BELOW AND EVALUATE TWO ECHELONS BELOW 

2-45. Commanders are responsible for training their own unit and one 
echelon below. Commanders evaluate units two echelons below. For 
example, brigade commanders train battalions and evaluate companies; 
battalion commanders train companies and evaluate platoons. 

REQUIRE SUBORDINATES TO UNDERSTAND AND PERFORM THEIR ROLES IN 
TRAINING 



2-46. Because good training results from leader involvement, one of the 
commander’s principal roles in training is to teach subordinate trainers 
how to train and how to fight. The commander provides the continuing 
leadership that focuses on the organization’s wartime mission. The 
commander assigns officers the primary responsibility for collective 
training, and NCOs the primary responsibility for individual, crew, and 



2-11 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



small team training (see figure 2-5). The commander, as the primary 
trainer, uses multiechelon techniques to meld leader, staff, and 
individual training requirements into collective training events, while 
recognizing the overlap in training responsibilities. Commanders teach, 
coach, and mentor subordinates throughout the training process. 




TRAIN ALL ELEMENTS TO BE PROFICIENT ON THEIR MISSION ESSENTIAL TASKS 

2-47. Commanders must integrate and train to Army standard personnel 
under all BOS — those both within and supporting their command — on 
their selected mission essential tasks. An important requirement for 
leaders is to project training plans far enough into the future and to 
coordinate resources with sufficient lead-time. 

TRAIN AND DEVELOP SUBORDINATES 

2-48. Competent and confident leaders build cohesive organizations with 
a strong chain of command, high morale, and good discipline. 
Commanders create leader development programs that develop 
warfighter professionalism, skills, and knowledge. They mentor, guide, 
listen to, and “think with” subordinates to challenge their depth of 
knowledge and understanding. Commanders ensure that their 
subordinates know “how to think” instead of what to think. They develop 
their subordinates’ confidence and empower them to make independent, 
situational-based decisions. The goal is to develop subordinates who have 
an agile and adaptive mindset. 



2-12 





Battle Focused Training 



ASSIST SUBORDINATES WITH SELF-DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM 

2-49. Commanders assist subordinates with a self-development program 
and share experienced insights that encourage subordinates to study and 
learn their profession. Effective leader development programs 
continuously influence the Army as junior leaders progress to higher 
levels of responsibility. 

INVOLVE THEMSELVES PERSONALLY IN PLANNING, PREPARING, EXECUTING, 
AND ASSESSING TRAINING 

2-50. Commanders resource training and protect subordinates’ training 
time. They are actively involved in planning for future training. They 
create a sense of stability throughout the organization by protecting 
approved training plans from training distracters. Commanders are 
responsible for executing the approved training to standard. 
Commanders are present (to the maximum extent possible) during the 
conduct of training, and provide timely, experienced feedback to all 
participants. 

DEMAND TRAINING STANDARDS BE ACHIEVED 

2-51. Leaders anticipate that some tasks may not be performed to 
standard. They design time in the training events for additional training 
on tasks not performed to standard. Leaders cannot assume that time 
will be available to train to standard next time. It is better to train to 
standard on a limited number of tasks, rather than attempt and fail to 
achieve the standard on too many tasks, rationalizing that corrective 
action will occur during some later training period. Soldiers will 
remember the enforced standard, not the one that was discussed. 

ENSURE PROPER TASK AND EVENT DISCIPLINE 

2-52. Senior leaders ensure that junior leaders plan the correct task-to - 
time ratio. Too many tasks guarantee that nothing gets trained to 
standard and that no time is allocated for retraining. Too many events 
result in improper preparation and recovery. 

FOSTER A COMMAND CLIMATE THAT IS CONDUCIVE TO GOOD TRAINING 

2-53. Commanders create a climate that rewards subordinates who are 
bold and innovative trainers and offer support for honest mistakes. They 
challenge the organization and each individual to train to full potential. 

MANAGE TRAINING DISTRACTERS 

2 -54. The commander who has planned and resourced a training event is 
responsible to ensure participation by the maximum number of soldiers. 
Administrative support burdens cannot be ignored; however, they can be 
managed using an effective time management system. Senior 
commanders must support subordinate commanders’ efforts to train 
effectively by managing training distracters and reinforcing the 
requirement for all assigned personnel to be present during prime 
training time. 



2-13 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



INCORPORATE RISK MANAGEMENT 

2-55. The military profession is inherently dangerous. Commanders must 
train their units to tough standards under the most realistic conditions 
possible. Applying the risk management process does not detract from 
this training goal, but enhances execution of highly effective, realistic 
training. Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and 
controlling risks arising from operational factors, and of making decisions 
that balance risk costs with mission training benefits. Leaders and 
soldiers at all echelons use risk management to conserve combat power 
and resources in both peace and war. 

TOP-DOWN/BOTTOM-UP APPROACH TO TRAINING 

2-56. The top-down/bottom-up approach to training is a team effort 
between commanders and their subordinate leaders. Commanders 
provide the training focus, direction, and resources, while subordinate 
leaders provide feedback on unit training proficiency, identify specific 
unit training needs, and execute training to standard in accordance with 
the approved plan. This team effort helps maintain training focus, 
establishes training priorities, and enables effective communication 
between command echelons. 

2-57. Guidance, based on wartime mission and priorities, flows from the 
top down and results in subordinate units’ identification of specific 
collective and individual tasks that support the higher unit’s mission. 
Input from the bottom up is essential because it identifies training needs 
to achieve task proficiency on identified collective and individual tasks. 
Leaders at all echelons communicate with each other about requirements 
and planning, preparing, executing, and evaluating training. 

2-58. Senior leaders centralize planning to provide a consistent training 
focus from the top to the bottom of the organization. However, they 
decentralize detailed planning and execution to ensure that the conduct 
of mission-related training sustains strengths and overcomes the 
weaknesses unique to each unit. Decentralized execution promotes 
subordinate leaders’ initiative to train their units, but does not mean 
senior leaders give up their responsibilities to supervise training, develop 
leaders, and provide feedback. 

BATTLE FOCUS 

2-59. Battle focus is the concept used to derive peacetime training 
requirements from assigned missions. The priority of training in units is 
to train to standard on the wartime mission. Battle focus guides the 
planning, preparation, execution, and assessment of each organization’s 
training program to ensure that its members train as they are going to 
fight. Battle focus is critical throughout the entire training process and is 
used by commanders to allocate resources for training based on wartime 
and operational mission requirements. Battle focus enables commanders 
and staffs at all echelons to structure a training program to cope with 
non-mission-related requirements while focusing on mission essential 
training activities. Battle focus recognizes that a unit cannot attain 
proficiency to standard on every task, whether due to time or other 
resource constraints. The commander must focus on those critical tasks 
essential to mission accomplishment. 



2-14 




Battle Focused Training 



2-60. A critical aspect of the battle focus concept is to understand the 
responsibility for, and the linkage between, collective mission essential 
tasks and the supporting individual tasks. The diagram in figure 2-6 
depicts the relationships and the proper sequence to derive optimum 
training benefit from each training opportunity. 

2-61. The commander and the CSM or 1SG work together to coordinate 
the collective mission essential tasks and individual training tasks on 
which the unit will focus during a given period. The CSM or 1SG 
identifies the supporting individual tasks for each collective task. The 
unit’s ARTEP'MTP provides an excellent resource for this process. It 
contains a comprehensive listing of all combat-critical collective tasks 
cross-referenced to supporting individual tasks by task number and title. 
Although NCOs have the primary role in training and sustaining 
individual soldier skills, officers at every level are responsible for training 
to established standards during both individual and collective training. 




Figure 2-6. Integration of Collective and Individual Training 

2-62. Battle focus is applied to all missions across the full spectrum of 
operations. Units may be diverted from their primary wartime mission to 
execute stability or support tasks. Successful execution of stability 
operations or support operations is important in the pursuit of national 
objectives. Generally, MACOM and corps commanders know in advance 
of the requirement to perform stability or support missions and identify 
those organizations required to perform these critical missions. 
Commanders of these identified organizations are responsible for 



2-15 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



conducting a mission analysis and, based on the results, for developing a 
METL for the directed mission. They identify and train to standard on 
the directed-mission METL. If time permits prior to deployment, units 
should execute a mission rehearsal exercise (MRE) with all participating 
units. 

2-63. Upon being relieved from a directed mission, the unit reverts to its 
assigned wartime mission and associated METL. The commander uses 
the training management cycle first to identify specific training 
requirements, then to plan, prepare, and execute training that 
reestablishes proficiency in the unit’s wartime METL. Commanders 
recognize and take into account the additional time this reintegration 
process may take. 

ARMY TRAINING MANAGEMENT CYCLE 

2-64. The foundation of the training process is the Army Training 
Management Cycle (figure 2-7). In the METL development process 
(chapter 3), training must relate to the organization’s wartime 
operational plans and must focus on METL tasks. The availability of 
resources does not affect METL development. The METL is an 
unconstrained statement of the tasks required to accomplish wartime 
missions. Resources for training, however, are constrained, and compete 
with other missions and requirements. Leaders develop synchronized 
long-range, short-range, and near-term training plans (chapter 4 ) to 
effectively utilize available resources to train for proficiency on METL 
tasks. After training plans are developed, units execute training by 
preparing, conducting, and recovering from training (chapter 5). The 
process continues with training evaluations that provide bottom-up input 
to organizational assessments. Organizational assessments provide 
necessary feedback to the senior commander and help the commander 
prepare the training assessment (chapter 6). 



SUMMARY 



2-65. Commanders at all levels are responsible for training their units to 
standard. It is their number one priority. Commanders follow the ten 
principles of training, structure their training program using a top-down, 
bottom-up approach, and use battle focus to guide the planning, 
preparation, execution, and assessment of training. 



2-16 




Battle Focused Training 



Assess 
Chapter 6 



Execute 
Chapter 5 




> Wartime Operational Plans 
• Enduring Combat Capability 
• Operational Environment 
• Directed Missions 
External Guidance/ 



Establish 

Mission 

Essential 



Develop METL 

Chapter 3 



Plan 



Chapter 4 



Figure 2-7. Army Training Management Cycle 



2-17 





Chapter 3 

Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



We focus our training programs to accomplish unit missions decisively for our nation 's 
warfighting needs. 

□ Maximize all training opportunities. 

□ Commander ’s first priority is training. 

□ Training must be standards-based and should include assessments against an 
established standard. 

□ Train as we fight. 

□ Every’ training event is a leader development opportunity (training builds soldier 
and leader confidence). 

General John N. Abrams 



Chapter 6 



Execute 

Chapter 5 



• Wartime Operational Plans 
• Enduring Combat Capability 
• Operational Environment 
• Directed Missions 



Assess 




External Guidance/ 


Develop METL 




Establish 








Chapter 3 



Plan 

Chapter 4 





CONTENTS 




METL Development Process 


3-2 


Reserve Component METL Development 


...3-26 


Inputs to METL Development 


3-3 


Echelon Above Division/Echelon Above 




Commanders’ Analysis 


3-5 


Corps METL Development 


...3-27 


METL Development Fundamentals 


3-6 


Table of Distribution and Allowances METL 




Battlefield Operating Systems 


3-6 


Development 


...3-27 


METL Development Sequence 


3-8 


METL Development for Directed Change of 




Battle Tasks 


3-8 


Mission 


...3-28 


Staff METL 


3-24 


Training Objectives 


...3-29 


Specialty Platoon Critical Task List 




Summary 


...3-36 


Development 


3-26 







3-1 








FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



METL DEVELOPMENT PROCESS 

3 _ 1. The METL development process links the unit’s wartime operational 
mission with its training. Battle focused training programs are based on 
wartime operational requirements. Army organizations, whether they are 
AC or RC, Modification Table of Organization and Equipment (MTOE) or 
Table of Distribution and Allowances (TDA), cannot achieve and sustain 
proficiency on every possible training task. The commander is responsible 
for identifying the tasks essential to accomplish the organization’s 
wartime operational mission. Battle focused METL identifies the tasks 
essential to accomplish the unit’s wartime operational mission and 
provides the foundation for the unit’s training program. All company- 
level and above units, AC and RC, MTOE and TDA, develop a METL. 
Staffs at each level also develop a METL that supports their unit’s 
METL. Detachments that are organized with a commander and under a 
distinct MTOE or TDA (for example, special forces detachments, 
explosive ordnance detachments, transportation port operation cargo 
detachments, and preventive medicine medical detachments) are 
examples of these units. 

3 _ 2. The METL development process is the catalyst to focus training on 
wartime operational missions. It — 

• Uses the wartime operational mission and other inputs to METL 
development to focus the unit’s training on essential tasks. 

• Provides a forum for professional discussion and leader 
development among senior, subordinate, and adjacent 
commanders concerning the linkage between mission and 
training. 

• Enables subordinate commanders and key NCOs to crosswalk 
collective, leader, and individual tasks to the mission. 

• Leads to “buy-in” and commitment to the organization’s training 
plan by unit leaders. 

3 _ 3. Figure 3-1 depicts the process commanders use to identify and select 
the mission essential tasks that make up the METL. 



3-2 




Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 




Figure 3-1. Mission Essential Task List Development Process 

INPUTS TO METL DEVELOPMENT 

3r4. There are five primary inputs to METL development — 

• Wartime operational plans. The most critical input to METL 
development is the organization’s wartime operational mission. 

• Enduring combat capabilities. The fundamental reason for the 
organization and operation of Army forces is to generate effects of 
combined arms. Army commanders form combat, CS, and CSS 
forces into cohesive teams through training for combat 
proficiency. Enduring combat capabilities are the unique 
contribution each unit makes to ensure that the Army 
successfully accomplishes any mission, anytime, anywhere. 

• Operational environment. The six dimensions of the operational 
environment are defined in FM 3‘0, Chapter 1. They are : threat, 
political, unified action, land combat operations, information, and 
technology. 

• Directed missions. Army organizations are frequently directed to 
execute a mission other than their assigned wartime operational 
mission. These missions can range from major combat operations 
to humanitarian assistance, security cooperation activities, or 
other types of stability operations or support operations, and 
often include a combination of all of these mission types. 

• External guidance. External guidance serves as an additional 
source of training tasks that relate to an organization’s wartime 
operational mission. Some examples of these external sources of 
guidance are — 

■ Higher headquarters directives. 

■ ARTEP-MTPs. 

■ Mobilization plans. 

■ Installation wartime transition and deployment plans. 



3-3 










FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



■ Force integration plans. 

■ Army Universal Task List (AUTL). 

■ Universal Joint Task List (UJTL). 

3-5. The UJTL (CJCSM 3500.04C) serves as a common language and 
common reference system for joint force commanders to communicate 
mission requirements. It is the basic language for developing a joint 
METL (JMETL). The UJTL defines tasks and functions performed by 
joint headquarters, the Army, and other service components operating at 
the operational and strategic levels of war. 

3 _ 6. The AUTL (FM 7 _ 15) is a comprehensive listing of Army tactical- 
level collective tasks and functions for tactical units (company through 
corps) and staffs. It complements the UJTL. The AUTL provides a basis 
for establishing unit-specific ARTEP-MTP linkage to the UJTL. This 
mission-to-task-to-training linkage assists forces in training the way they 
intend to fight. The AUTL — 

• Provides a common, doctrinal structure for Army tactical mission 
tasks. 

• Articulates what the Army does to accomplish missions. 

• Applies to all four types of military operations (offense, defense, 
stability, support). 

• Lists collective Army tactical tasks subordinate to each of the 
seven BOS. 

3-7. Figure 3-2 illustrates the UJTL, AUTL, and ARTEP-MTP 
relationship. 



UJTL 

TACTICAL TASK AREA 

• TA 1 Deploy/Conduct Maneuver 

• TA 2 Develop Intelligence 

• TA 3 Employ Firepower 

• TA 4 Perform Logistics & CSS 

• TA 5 Exercise C2 

• TA 6 Protect the Force 

• TA7 Operation in CBRNE 
Environment 



UJTL provides; 

• Overall description of tasks & 
functions performed at strategic and 
operational levels of war. 

• Common language and reference 
system. 









AUTL provides: 

• Tasks performed by Army Units 
at tactical level of war. 

• Basis for unit specific Army 
training & evaluation programs. 

ARTEP-MTP provides; 

*• «. J • Detailed T&EO with specific 

collective tasks essential to 

M M M ... * unit’s mission. 



I ARTEP-MTP 

• Task 

• Condition 

• Standard 



AUTL 

• ART 1 .0 - Intelligence 

• ART 2.0 - Maneuver 

• ART 3.0 - Fire Support 

• ART 4.0 - Air Defense 

• ART 5.0 - Mobility/ 
Countermobility/ 
Survivability 

• ART 6.0 - CSS 

• ART 7.0 - C2 



Figure 3-2. UJTL-AUTL-ARTEP-MTP Crosswalk 



3-4 









Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



3 -8. Unit-specific doctrinal manuals are primary sources for training 
tasks. The applicable ARTEP-MTP is a good starting point for selecting 
collective tasks to support the missions at the battalion and company 
levels. Leaders may develop task lists using the following sources when 
no ARTEP-MTP exists — 

• MTOE. 

• TDA. 

• Tactical standing operating procedures (TSOPs). 

• ARTEP-MTPs for other units with similar organization or a 
similar mission or task. 

• Technical manuals (TMs). 

• Training circulars (TCs). 

• Combined Arms Center (CAC) Lessons Learned Data Base. 

• Readiness standing operating procedures (RSOPs). 

• State operational contingency plans for the ARNG. 

3-9. METLs may vary significantly in similar types of organizations 
because of different wartime operational missions and geographical 
location. For example, a continental United States (CONUS)-based power 
projection organization may identify strategic deployment requirements 
as critical tasks while a like forward-deployed organization may identify 
tactical deployment requirements such as rapid assembly and tactical 
road march as critical tasks. Geography also influences the selection of 
different mission essential tasks for units. The presence of significant 
water obstacles; mountainous terrain; tropical, cold, or desert 
environments; indigenous population patterns; and other related 
demographics all have the potential to affect an organization’s METL. 

COMMANDERS’ ANALYSIS 

3-10. To identify mission essential tasks, the commander conducts an 
analysis of the unit’s operational mission. In the absence of a directed 
operational mission, analysis is based on the unit’s assigned mission in 
wartime operational plans. In the absence of clear alignment with 
wartime operational plans, mission analysis is based on analysis of 
missions for which the unit was designed to accomplish in wartime, as 
established in the unit’s MTOE/TDA and howto-fight doctrine. Higher 
commanders provide guidance to help their subordinate commanders 
focus their analysis. Mission analysis results in identification of specified 
and implied tasks the unit must perform and in a restatement of the 
unit’s mission. To provide battle focus, the commander identifies those 
tasks critical for mission accomplishment. These tasks constitute the 
organization’s METL. The next higher commander approves the METL. A 
change of operational mission requires the commander to analyze the 
mission again and adjust the unit’s METL accordingly. 

3-11. The METL development process reduces the number of tasks on 
which the organization must train and focuses the organization's training 
efforts on the most important collective training tasks required to 
accomplish the mission. 



3-5 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



METL DEVELOPMENT FUNDAMENTALS 

3' 12. The following fundamentals apply to METL development — 

• The METL is derived from the organization’s war plans and 
related tasks in external guidance. 

• Mission essential tasks must apply to the entire organization. 
METL does not include tasks assigned solely to subordinate 
organizations. 

• Each organization’s METL must support and complement the 
METL of higher headquarters or the supported unit. 

• The availability of resources does not affect METL development. 
The METL is an unconstrained statement of tasks required to 
accomplish wartime missions. 

• METL is not prioritized; however, all tasks may not require equal 
training time. 

• Commanders direct operations and integrate the BOS through 
plans and orders. The BOS are used to systematically ensure that 
the interdependent organizational tasks necessary to generate, 
sustain, and apply combat power are directed toward 
accomplishing the overall mission. 

3 _ 13. Figure Sr 3 summarizes the fundamental concepts in the METL 
development process : 



♦ METL is derived from the organization’s war plans and related tasks in 
external guidance. 

♦ METL must apply to the entire organization. METL does not include 
tasks assigned solely to subordinate organizations. 

♦ METL must support and complement the METL of higher headquarters. 
METL for CS and CSS units must also support and complement the 
supported unit METL. 

♦ Resource availability does not affect METL development. METL is an 
unconstrained statement of tasks required to accomplish wartime 
missions. 

♦ METL is not prioritized. However, all tasks may not require equal 
training time. 

♦ Commanders use BOS to apply combat power. 



Figure 3-3. Fundamental Concepts Used in METL Development 

BATTLEFIELD OPERATING SYSTEMS 

3 _ 14. The battlefield operating systems (BOS) are — 

• Intelligence. 

• Maneuver. 

• Fire support. 

• Air defense. 

• Mobility/countermobility/ survivability. 

• Combat service support. 

• Command and control. 



3-6 





Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



INTELLIGENCE 

3-15. The intelligence system plans, directs, collects, processes, produces, 
and disseminates intelligence on the threat and the environment; 
performs intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB); and 
accomplishes other intelligence tasks. Intelligence is developed as a part 
of a continuous process and is fundamental to Army operations. 

MANEUVER 

3- 16. Commanders maneuver forces to create the conditions for tactical 
and operational success. Maneuver involves movement to achieve 
positions of advantage with respect to enemy forces. Through maneuver, 
friendly forces gain the ability to destroy enemy forces or hinder enemy 
movement by direct and indirect application of firepower or threat of its 
application. 

FIRE SUPPORT 

3-17. Fire support consists of fires that directly support land, maritime, 
amphibious, and special operations forces in engaging enemy forces, 
combat formations, and facilities in pursuit of tactical and operational 
objectives. Fire support integrates and synchronizes fires and effects to 
delay, disrupt, or destroy enemy forces, systems, and facilities. The fire 
support system includes the collective and coordinated use of target 
acquisition data, indirect fire weapons, fixed-winged aircraft, electronic 
warfare, and other lethal and nondethal means to attack targets. 

AIR DEFENSE 

3- 18. Air defense protects the force from air and missile attack and aerial 
surveillance. It prevents enemies from interdicting friendly forces while 
freeing commanders to synchronize maneuver and fire power. Weapons of 
mass destruction (WMD) and proliferation of missile technology increase 
the importance of the air defense systems. 

MOBILITY/COUNTERMOBILITY/SURVIVABILITY 

3-19. Mobility operations preserve the freedom of maneuver for friendly 
forces. Mobility missions include breaching obstacles, increasing 
battlefield circulation, improving or building roads, providing bridge and 
raft support, and identifying routes around contaminated areas. 
Countermobility denies mobility to enemy forces. Survivability operations 
protect friendly forces from the effects of enemy weapon systems and 
from natural occurrences. NBC defense measures are essential 
survivability tasks. 

COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT 

3-20. Combat service support (CSS) provides the physical means with 
which forces operate, from the production base and replacement centers 
in CONUS to soldiers engaged in close combat. CSS includes many 
technical specialties and functional activities. It maximizes the use of 
host nation infrastructure and contracted support. 



3-7 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



COMMAND AND CONTROL 

3-21. Command and control (C2) has two components — the commander 
and the C2 system. The C2 system supports the commander’s ability to 
make informed decisions, delegate authority, and synchronize the BOS. 
Moreover, the C2 system supports the commander’s ability to adjust 
plans for future operations, even while focusing on current operations. 
Reliable communications are central to C2 systems. Staffs work within 
the commander’s intent to direct units and control resource allocations. 
Through C2, commanders initiate and integrate all BOS toward the 
common goal — mission accomplishment. 

METL DEVELOPMENT SEQUENCE 

3-22. Commanders involve subordinate commanders, their CSM or 1SG, 
and key NCOs in METL development to create a team approach to battle 
focused training. Subordinate participation develops a common 
understanding of the organization’s critical wartime operational mission 
requirements so that METLs throughout the organization are mutually 
supporting. Subordinate commanders can subsequently apply insights 
gained during preparation of the next higher headquarters’ METL in the 
development of their METL. The CSM/lSG and other key NCOs must 
understand the organization’s collective METL so that they can identify 
individual tasks for each collective mission essential task. 

3 _ 23. The higher commander should use the METL for leader 
development. The senior commander can have a professional dialogue 
with subordinates on METL development, selection of battle tasks, and 
training. This dialogue gives the commander the opportunity to coach and 
mentor subordinates and train them for positions of higher authority. 
This mentoring and training should be done at all levels. 

BATTLE TASKS 



3'24. After review and approval of subordinate organizations’ METL, the 
senior commander selects battle tasks. A battle task is a staff or 
subordinate organization mission essential task that is so critical that its 
accomplishment determines the success of the next higher organization’s 
mission essential task. Similar units may have different battle tasks 
selected, depending on their mission. Battle tasks are selected down to 
the company level. Company commanders are the lowest echelon 
commander that selects battle tasks. Battle tasks allow the senior 
commander to define the training tasks that — 

• Integrate the BOS. 

• Receive the highest priority for resources, such as ammunition, 
training areas, facilities (to include live and virtual simulators 
and constructive simulations), materiel, and funds. 

• Receive emphasis during external evaluations. 

3 _ 25. Figure 3-4 depicts the higher-todower relationship of mission and 
METL. It illustrates the relationship the subordinate units’ METL has 
with the higher headquarters’ METL through the selection of battle 
tasks. Although an MTOE brigade is used as the example, the 
METL/battle/critical/leader/individual task construction is the same for 



3-8 




Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



all units, including TDA, echelons above division, and echelons above 
corps — 

• Battalions have METL tasks selected as brigade battle tasks. 

• Companies have METL tasks selected as battalion battle tasks. 

• Platoons have critical tasks selected as company battle tasks. 

3-26. Figure 3-4 also shows the connection between a company METL 
and platoon, squad, leader, and individual soldier tasks. These 
relationships are examined in detail later in this chapter. 




Figure 3-4. Relationships between Mission, METL, Critical Tasks, and Battle Task 

BRIGADE METL DEVELOPMENT 

3-27. The BCT commander involves all subordinate combat, CS, and CSS 
unit commanders, their CSM/lSG’s, and the BCT staff in the METL 
development process. Their participation ensures a better understanding 
of the BCT mission and METL, providing insights that can be applied 
when they develop their METL. The BCT commander follows the METL 
development sequence shown in figure 3 _ 5. 



3-9 













FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



METL DEVELOPMENT SEQUENCE: 

• Analyze brigade assigned mission and identify specified and implied tasks. 

• Analyze operational environment and external guidance. 

• Review division commander’s mission and METL. 

• Restate the brigade’s operational mission. 

• Identify collective tasks that support the brigade’s restated mission. Select tasks 
critical for mission accomplishment. These tasks become the brigade’s METL. 

• Sequence METL tasks as they are expected to occur during mission execution. 

• Back-brief division commander and obtain approval of brigade METL. Division 
commander designates selected brigade METL tasks as division battle tasks. 

• Provide approved METL to staff, and to battalion and separate company 
commanders. 



Figure 3-5. Brigade METL Development Sequence 

3-28. The brigade commander — 

• Analyzes the brigade’s assigned mission and identifies specified 
and implied tasks. 

• Analyzes the operational environment and other external 
guidance to identify any other tasks. 

• Reviews the division commander’s mission and METL. 

• Restates the brigade wartime operational mission. 

• Uses the mission-to-collective task matrix found in the ARTEP- 
MTP to identify the collective tasks that support the brigade’s 
restated mission, and selects those collective tasks that are 
critical for wartime mission accomplishment. These tasks become 
the brigade’s METL. 

• Sequences the METL tasks as they are expected to occur during 
the execution of the wartime operational mission. 

• Back-briefs the division commander and obtains approval of the 
brigade METL. The division commander selects specific brigade 
METL tasks as division battle tasks. 

• Provides the approved METL to the staff, and battalion and 
separate company commanders. 

BATTALION METL DEVELOPMENT 

3 _ 29. The battalion commander involves all subordinate company 
commanders, CSMs, lSGs, staff, and key NCOs in the battalion METL 
development process. Their participation ensures a better understanding 
of the battalion mission and METL, providing insights that can be 
applied when they develop the company METLs. The battalion 
commander follows the METL development sequence shown in figure 3 _ 6. 



3-10 





Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



METL DEVELOPMENT SEQUENCE: 

• Analyze battalion assigned mission and identify specified and implied tasks. 

• Analyze operational environment and external guidance. 

• Review brigade commander’s mission and METL. 

• Restate the battalion’s operational mission. 

• Identify collective tasks that support the battalion’s restated mission. Select tasks 
critical for mission accomplishment. These tasks become the battalion’s METL. 

• Sequence METL tasks as they are expected to occur during mission execution. 

• Back-brief brigade commander and obtain approval of battalion METL. Brigade 
commander designates selected battalion METL tasks as brigade battle tasks. 

• Provide approved METL to staff and company commanders. 



Figure 3-6. Battalion METL Development Sequence 

3 -30. The battalion commander — 

• Analyzes the battalion’s assigned mission and identifies specified 
and implied tasks. 

• Analyzes the operational environment and other external 
guidance to identify any other tasks. 

• Reviews the brigade commander’s mission and METL. 

• Restates the battalion wartime operational mission. 

• Uses the mission-to-collective task matrix found in the ARTEP- 
MTP to identify the collective tasks that support the battalion’s 
restated mission, and selects those collective tasks that are 
critical for wartime mission accomplishment. These tasks become 
the battalion’s METL. 

• Sequences the METL tasks as they are expected to occur during 
the execution of the wartime operational mission. 

• Back-briefs the brigade commander and obtains approval of the 
battalion METL. The brigade commander selects specific 
battalion METL tasks as brigade battle tasks. 

• Provides the approved METL to the staff and company 
commanders. 

3'31. Figure Sr7 illustrates the battalion and separate company METL 

for the BCT METL task “Conduct an Attack.” 

3'32. The remainder of this chapter describes and illustrates — 

• Company METL development. 

• Platoon critical task and drill list development. 

• Squad/section/crew/team critical task and drill list development. 

• Individual soldier task list development. 



3-11 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



SUPPORTS 



r 



SUPPORTS 

-ECTMETL: 

Conduct an Attack 

DETERMINES 



m 



BCT MISSION: 

“On order, BCT attacks , 
In order to ..." 



DETERMINES 



T 

. i . 

I Ml [ 



1 



t f 



© 



DETERMINES 



T 



BSB 



1 



IN BATTALION 
MISSION! 

“On order, Bn attacks,,. 
In order to,.," 



Ml COMPANY 
MISSION: 

Provide ISR 
Intelligence Support 
for an ATTACK 



FA BATTALION 
MISSION: 
Provide FS for 
an ATTACK 



EN MISSION: 
Provide Mobility 
Support for an 
ATTACK 



BSB MISSION: 
Provide CSS 
for an ATTACK 



BSC MISSION: 
Provide C4 Ops 
for an ATTACK 



laaBB *« s * B ., sal ,» BBa .,* BaaaBaBall 
IN BATTALION METL: * 


* Ml COMPANY METL: : 


FA BATTALION METL : l 


■ EN METL: 


s: BSB METL: 


; ! BSC METL: S 


* Assault an Objective ■ 


s • Conduct CM, IP&D 




* Coordinate FS i 


jj * Conduct EN 


s * * Defend Against 


* I * Establish COF‘ ■ 


* Breach an Obstacle • 


j o Perform Target 




* Acquire Targets l 


| Planning & Coord 


“ ; Level 1 & Level II 


; ! * IOMT FBCB2, 




« Development 




* Deliver Fires i 


l • Conduct M/CM/S 


2 ; Threats 


■; eplrs, : 


* 


J * Conduct ASAS 


1 




| Ops 


l 2 * Provide DS Level 


■S SINCGARS ; 




» Ops 








Si CSS 


;j i 






» 


H 


» 


* 



I SUPPORTS WWW SUPPORTS W 

iii(aiiiiiiiiHi(aiRBiiii»«iiiBRiiiiHiiiiaiiiiiiiiiiiiiiHii 



Figure 3-7. METL Crosswalk 

COMPANY METL DEVELOPMENT 

Description 

3-33. The company commander involves the 1SG, all platoon leaders, and 
key NCOs in the company METL development process. Their 
participation ensures a better understanding of the company’s mission 
and METL, providing them insights that can be applied when they 
develop the platoon critical tasks and platoon-level leader tasks. The 
company commander follows the METL development sequence shown in 
figure 3-8. 



3-12 







Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



METL DEVELOPMENT SEQUENCE: 

• Analyze company assigned mission and identify specified and implied tasks. 

• Analyze operational environment and external guidance. 

• Review battalion commander’s mission and METL. 

• Restate company operational mission. 

• Identify collective tasks that support the company’s restated mission. Select tasks 
critical for mission accomplishment. These tasks become the company’s METL. 

• Sequence METL tasks as they are expected to occur during mission execution. 

• Back-brief battalion commander and obtain approval of company METL. Battalion 
commander designates selected company METL tasks as battalion battle tasks. 

• Provide approved METL to platoon leaders and subordinate leaders. 



Figure 3-8. Company METL Development Sequence 

3 -34. The company commander — 

• Analyzes the company’s assigned mission and identifies specified 
and implied tasks. 

• Analyzes the operational environment and other external 
guidance to identify any other tasks. 

• Reviews the battalion commander’s mission and METL. 

• Restates the company wartime operational mission. 

• Uses the mission-to'collective task matrix found in the ARTEP- 
MTP to identify the collective tasks that support the company’s 
restated mission, and selects those collective tasks that are 
critical for wartime mission accomplishment. These tasks become 
the company’s METL. 

• Sequences the METL tasks as they are expected to occur during 
the execution of the wartime operational mission. 

• Back-briefs the battalion commander and obtains approval of the 
company METL. The battalion commander selects specific 
company METL tasks as battalion battle tasks. 

• Provides the approved METL to the platoon leaders and other 
subordinate leaders. 

3-35. The importance of METL development followed by the collective 
task to individual task crosswalk at company, battery, and troop level 
and below cannot be over emphasized. Figure Sr 9 illustrates the company 
commander’s analysis sequence used during METL development. The 
company commander pays particular attention to company METL tasks 
selected by the battalion commander as battalion battle tasks. The 
company commander must acknowledge the critical importance of 
achieving and sustaining proficiency on company METL tasks necessary 
to the battalion accomplishing its wartime operational mission. 



3-13 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



BATTALION MISSION: 
“On order, Bn...” 



t 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



BATTALION METL: 
Task la: 

Task 1b: 

A 



DETERMINES 



1 T 


1 






DETERMINES 


COMPANY 


“On order, Co... ^ SUPPORTS 


Task 1 : _ 


In order to...” 


Task 2: 




Task 3: 
Task 4: 



BATTALION BATTLE 
TASK: 

Task 1 : 

Task 2: 

SELECTED COMPANY 
METL TASKS 



I 



SUPPORTS 



Figure 3-9. Company METL Development 

Company METL Development Examples 

3-36. An example of METL development for an infantry company is 
shown in figure 3-10. This example illustrates the supporting 
relationships of the infantry company mission and METL to the infantry 
battalion mission and METL. 

3-37. An example of METL development for an FA battery is shown in 
figure 3-11. This example highlights the supporting relationships 
between an FA battalion’s METL, a firing battery’s METL, and an FA 
battalion tactical operations center’s (TOC’s) and fire direction center’s 
(FDC’s) staff METL tasks. 



3-14 





Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 




IN BATTLION MISSION: 
“On order, Bn attacks... 

In order to...” 



4 



DETERMINES 




SUPPORTS 



DETERMINES 

► 



SUPPORTS 




IN BATTALION METL: 

• Assault an Objective 

* Breach an Obstacle 

4 

i 

i 

SUPPORTS 







IN COMPANY MISSION: 
“On order, Co attacks... 

In order to...” 



DETERMINES 

► 



SUPPORTS 



T 

I 

I 




IN COMPANY METL: 

* Conduct Troop Leading 
Procedures 

* Conduct a Rehearsal 

* Assault an Objective 

* Breach an Obstacle 

* Conduct an Area Recon 

* Integrate Indirect Fire Support 

* Treat & Evacuate Casualties 



Figure 3-10. Infantry Company METL Development 





DETERMINES _ 




• 




• 



FA BATTALION MISSION: 
“On Order, Bn . . 



SUPPORTS 



FA BATTALION METL: 

* Coordinate FS 

• Aquire Targets 



FA BATTALION TOC & FDC CRITICAL TASKS: 

« Gain and/or Maintain Situational Awareness (SA) 

• Prepare Bn R&S Plan 

® Direct Operation of FA Acquisition Assets 

• Control & Coordinate Fire Plans (FDC) 

• Execute Bn Fire Missions (FDC) 



. i , 

[ ♦ | 



■ BATTERY METL: 



• Determine Firing Data 

DETERMINES • Conduct Fire Missions 

||s »- • Move the Battery 

• Conduct Occupation of 
Position Area 



Figure 3-11. Battery METL Development 



3-15 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Sr 38. An example of METL development for a brigade support medical 
company in the brigade support battalion (BSB) is shown in figure 3- 12. 
It illustrates the supporting relationships of the brigade support medical 
company mission and METL to the BSB mission and METL. The 
headquarters and distribution company and the forward maintenance 
company of the BSB also follow this same METL development process. 



BSB 



BSB MISSION: 
Provide CSS for 
Attack 



DETERMINES 




SUPPORTS 



11 

BSB 



BSB METL: 

* Defend Against Level I and II 
Threats 



♦ 



DETERMINES 



* Provide DS-Level Combat 
Service Support 



♦ 



BRIGADE SUPPORT 
MEDICAL COMPANY 
MISSION: 

Provide Combat Health 
Service Support to the 
BCT 



DETERMINES 

— ► 



BRIGADE SUPPORT MEDICAL 
COMPANY METL: 

• Establish Company Area of 
Operations 

* Defend Unit Area 



Perform Combat Health Support Ops 



Figure 3-12. Brigade Support Medical Company METL Development 

PLATOON CRITICAL TASK AND DRILL LIST DEVELOPMENT 

Description 

3 _ 39. Platoon and below must perform critical tasks that are essential to 
company METL accomplishment. The development of the platoon critical 
tasks and drills list requires discussion between the company commander 
and platoon leader — 

• The company commander and 1SG discuss the company mission 
and METL with the platoon leader and platoon sergeant (PSG). 
The platoon leader back-briefs the company commander on the 
platoon mission. 

• The platoon leader, with the PSG, and using the appropriate 
ARTEP-MTP, selects platoon critical tasks and drills that support 
the company METL and platoon mission. 

• The platoon leader discusses the proposed platoon critical tasks 
and drills list with the company commander. The company 
commander provides feedback on the selected platoon critical 
tasks and drills list. The company commander approves (modifies 
as necessary) the platoon critical tasks and drills list. 

• The company commander designates platoon-level leader tasks 
that are essential for the platoon leader to execute platoon critical 
tasks and drills to standard. 



3-16 





Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 

3-40. Figure 3-13 illustrates company commander, platoon leader, and 
PSG actions during selection of platoon critical tasks and drills and 
platoon-level leader tasks. The platoon leader uses the battalion 
commander approved METL as the start point. 




Examples 

3-41. Examples of platoon critical tasks and platoon-level leader tasks 
selected for an infantry platoon are shown in figure 3-14. The figure 
illustrates the relationship of the platoon mission and critical tasks to the 
company mission and METL. It also shows the supporting relationships 
of the platoon-level leader tasks to the platoon critical tasks. 



DETERMINES , 



. IN COMPANY METL: 

• Conduct Troop Leading Procedures 

• Conduct a Rehearsal 

• Assault an Objective 

• Breach an Obstacle 

• Conduct an Area Recon 

• Integrate Indirect Fire Support 

• Treat & Evacuate Casualties 



DETERMINES 



DETERMINES 



▲ 

SUPPORTS | 

s I 



SUPPORTS INFANTRY PLATOON CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Conduct Troop Leading Procedures 

* Conduct a Rehearsal DETERMINES 

* Assault an Objective — ’ 

« Attack by Fire 

* Breach an Obstacle "'fll mmm ™“ 

* Treat & Evacuate Casualties SUPPORTS 



PLATOON - LEVEL LEADER TASKS: 

• Analyze Terrain 

• Conduct TLPs 

• Plan for Supporting Fires 



Figure 3-14. Selection of Infantry Platoon Critical Tasks and Platoon-Level Leader Tasks 



3-17 







FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



3-42. Figure 3-15 illustrates the results of the FA battery commander, 
XO, FDO, and firing platoon leaders analysis to select FDC and howitzer 
platoon critical tasks. It also shows the results of the company FSO and 
fire support NCO (FSNCO) analysis to select FIST critical tasks. 



r^m SUPPORTS 




1 

• 


DETERMINES | 1 | 

◄- — — • 


COMPANY FIST CRITICAL TASKS: 


BATTERY METL: BATTERY MISSION: 


« Plan Fires in Support of Maneuver Ops 


• Determine Firing Data “On Order, Battery ..." 


* Participate in FS Rehearsals 


* Conduct Fire Missions 


• Coordinate, Direct & Adjust Other FS Assets 


* Move the Battery 


• Coordinate & Control Fire Plan Execution 


* Conduct Occupation of 


« Conduct Fire Missions 


Position Area 




• Establish an Observation Post 




[ 










a 




SUPPORTS 






BATTERY TOC/FDC 


^jlgj mmm 




HOWITZER PLATOON 


CRITICAL TASKS: 






CRITICAL TASKS: 


* Establish & Maintain Battery (FDC) 




• Establish & Maintain 


* Determine Firing Data (FDC) 




Platoon FDC 


* Conduct Battle Tracking (TOC) 




® Conduct Fire Missions 


+ Coordinate Positioning & Direct 




* Move the Platoon 


Movement of Platoons (TOC) 




® Conduct Occupation of 








Position Area 



Figure 3-15. Selection of Platoon, Section, and Team Critical Tasks 

3-43. An example of platoon critical tasks and platoon-level leader task 
selection for the ambulance platoon of the brigade support medical 
company is shown at figure 3-16. 



DETERMINES 

— — ► 



BRIGADE SUPPORT 
MEDICAL COMPANY — — 

MISSION: SUPPORTS 

Provide Combat Health 
Service Support to the BCT 



y 

5 



DETERMINES 



AMBULANCE PLATOON MISSION: 
Provide Ground Ambulance 
Evacuation Support 



BRIGADE SUPPORT MEDICAL 
COMPANY METL: 

• Establish Company Area of Operations 
« Defend Unit Area 

• Perform Combat Health Support Ops 

SUPPORTS^ 



DETERMINES 

”► 



5 



DETERMINES 



AMBULANCE PLATOON 
CRITICAL TASKS: 

• Set Up Unit (Platoon) 
Defense 

• Defend Against Level 1 
Attack 



* Provide Ground Ambulance 
Evacuation Support 



LEADER TASKS: 

* Supervise Set Up of Platoon 
Defensive Sector 

* Conduct a Defense by a Platoor 

* Perform AXP Pre-Establish merit 
Activities 



Figure 3-16. Selection of Ambulance Platoon Critical Tasks and 
Platoon-Level Leader Tasks 



3-18 





Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



SQUAD/SECTION/CREW/TEAM CRITICAL TASK AND DRILL LIST DEVELOPMENT 

Description 

3-44. The development of the squad/crew/team critical task and drill list, 
supporting squad-level leader tasks, and supporting individual soldier 
tasks requires discussion between the platoon leader, PSG, and squad 
leaders — 

• The platoon leader briefs the platoon sergeant and squad leaders 
on the platoon mission, critical task and drill list, and platoon- 
level leader tasks. 

• The platoon sergeant and squad leaders, using the appropriate 
ARTEP-MTP and drills, discuss and select squad/crew/team 
collective tasks and drills, and squad-level leader tasks that 
support the platoon’s critical task and drill list. 

• The PSG and squad leaders back-brief the platoon leader on 
selected supporting squad/crew/team critical tasks and drills, and 
squad-level leader tasks. The platoon leader approves (modifies 
as necessary) the proposed squad/crew/team critical task and drill 
list, and squad-level leader tasks. 

3-45. Figure 3-17 depicts platoon leader, PSG, and squad leader actions 
during the selection of squad critical tasks and drills and squad-level 
leader tasks. Platoon leaders use the company commander-approved 
platoon critical task and drill list as their start point. 



COMPANY MISSION; 

“On order, Co ... 

In order to ...” 



DETERMINES 

►- 



| tag j 



PLATOON MISSION: 
“On order, Pit ... 

In order to ...” 



DETERMINES 

► 



COMPANY METL: 
Task 1: 

Task 2: 

Task 3 
Task 4 



t 

I 

Q 



PLATOON CRITICAL 
TASKS & DRILLS: 
Task 1 
Task 2: 

Task 3: 

Drill 1: 

Drill 2; 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



PLATOON LEADER 
TASKS: 

Task 1: 

Task 2: 

Task 3 
Task 4 



ti 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



* 



DETERMINES 
•SQUAD CRITICAL n— 1» SQUAD LEADER 
TASKS & DRILLS: TASKS: 



— »l 



Taskl 
Task 2: 
Drill 
Drill 
Drill 3: 



^ Taskl: 

Task 2: 

SUPPORTS Task 3; 

Task 4: 



Figure 3-17. Selection of Squad Critical Tasks and Drills, and Squad-Level Leader Tasks 



3-19 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Examples 

3-46. Figure 3-18 illustrates the process of developing an infantry squad 
critical task and drill list. 



risi 



INFANTRY PLATOON MISSION: 
"On order. Pit attacks... 

In order to..." 



4 




DETERMINES 



DETERMINES 



INFANTRY PLATOON 
CRITICAL TASKS: 

• Conduct Troop Leading 
Procedures 

• Conduct a Rehearsal 

• Assault an Objective 

• Attack by Fire 

• Breach an Obstacle 

• Treat & Evacuate Casualties 



PLATOON- LEVEL LEADER TASKS : M 

* Analyze Terrain 

* Conduct TLPs 

* Plan for Supporting Fires 



SUPPORTS 



4 I 



DETERMINES 



mm 



INFANTRY SQUAD 
CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Enter/Ci ear Trench 

* Knock out a Bunker 



DETERMINES 

, SQUAD LEADER TASKS: — 

• Analyze Terrain 

jjjjaii ram m*« • Conduct TLPS 

SUPPORTS * Conduct Squad Maneuver 

• Control Organic Fires 



Figure 3-18. Selection of Infantry Squad Critical Tasks and Squad-Level Leader Tasks 

3-47. Figure 3-19 shows an example of battery FDC, howitzer section, 
and FIST critical tasks. The figure also shows the battery FDO, howitzer 
section sergeant, and company FSOdevel leader task selections for a BCT 
direct support (DS) FA battalion. 





1,1 

• 


! DETERMINES 




| ^ | J3ETERMINES j 


A 

• 


] 


COMPANY FIST CRITICAL TASKS: ◄jf- — — 


Ik 


BATTERY METL BATTERY MISSION: 


» Plan Fires in Support of Maneuver Ops 


~ SUPPORlJb 


* Determine Firing Data “On Order, Battery ...” 


* Participate in FS Rehearsals 


1 


* Conduct Fire Missions 




• Coordinate, Direct, & Adjust Other FS Assets 


1 


• Move the Battery 




* Coordinate & Control Fire Plan Execution 


1 


• Conduct Occupation of 




• Conduct Fire Missions 






Position Area 




* Establish an Observation Post 


I 


A 1 










1 DETERMINES 


T 1 






j X 


X 




* Co FSO Positions Himself & FOs aas ™ “*■ ™ 


■■ ▼ 


1 T 




Where They Can Execute EFSTs 


a 


1 a 




® Co FSO Monitors & Processes 




Calls for Fire on Targets of Opportunity 








1" BATTERY TOC & FDC SUPPORTS] HOWITZER PLATOON i 








1 CRITICAL TASKS: 


CRITICAL TASKS: 










1 


Determine Firing Data (FDC) 


■ * Establish & Maintain 










I 


Conduct Battle Tracking (TOC) 1 Platoon FDC 










I 


Coordinate Positioning & Direct | . Conduct Fire Missions 










I 


Movement of Platoons (T OC) 


l * Move the Platoon 










▼ 




1 * Conduct Occupation of 










FDO TASKS: 


j 

j 


sumi Position Area 










* Supervise Fire Missions for 


HOWITZER SECTION LEADER 










Registration, Priority, Fire Plan 


TASKS: 


◄iH 








Target, Area & Special Missions 


* Manage & Submit Section Reports 






* Execute Scheduled Fires 


* Prepare Howitzer for Conduct of Fire 






* Supervise Special Fire Missions 


Missions 








in Degraded Mode 


« Determine Howitzer Data is Safe to Fire 



Figure 3-19. Selection of Section Critical Tasks and Section-Level Leader Tasks 



3-20 





Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



3-48. Squad critical task and squad-level leader task selections for an 
ambulance squad in the brigade support medical company are illustrated 
in figure 3 _ 20. 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



AMBULANCE PLATOON 
MISSION: 

Provide Ground Ambulance 
Evacuation Support 



AMBULANCE PLATOON 
CRITICAL TASKS: 

» Set Up Unit (Platoon) Defense 
» Defend Against Level 1 Attack 
* Provide Ground Ambulance 
Evacuation Support 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



PLATOON LEADER TASKS: 

• Supervise Set Up of Platoon 
Defensive Sector 

• Conduct a Defense by a Platoon 

• Perform AXP Pre- Establishment 
Activities 



ti 

| I DETERMINES 

| I 



DETERMINES 



DS AMBULANCE SQUAD 
CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Set Up Unit (Section) 
Defense 

* Defend Against Level 1 
Attack 

* Operate Ambulance 
Exchange Points (AXPs) 



SUPPORTS 



SUPPORTS 



SQUAD LEADER TASKS: 8 

* Conduct a Defense 

by Squad/Section «*■* ■ ii i ii i ii |B 1I» ii 1 

* Reorganize a Squad/Section 
Following Enemy Contact 

* Supervise the Establishment of AXPs 



Figure 3-20. Selection of Ambulance Squad Critical Tasks and Squad-Level Leader Tasks 

INDIVIDUAL SOLDIER TASK SELECTION 

Description 

3-49. The development and selection of supporting individual soldier 
tasks requires discussion between the platoon leader, PSG, and squad 
leaders — 

• Based on the platoon leader’s guidance, the PSG and squad 
leaders, using appropriate ARTEP-MTP and STP, select 
individual soldier tasks that support platoon and 
squad/crew/team critical tasks and drills. 

• The PSG provides feedback to the squad leaders on selected 
individual soldier tasks. The PSG reviews and modifies as 
necessary supporting individual soldier tasks selected by the 
squad leaders. 

• The platoon leader approves the supporting individual soldier 
tasks selected by the squad leaders. 

• The PSG briefs the company 1SG on the platoon leader’s 
approved squad/crew/team critical collective tasks and drills and 
supporting individual soldier tasks. 

3'50. Figure 3-21 illustrates the process of selecting individual soldier 
tasks. This figure shows that individual task proficiency provides the 
basic building block of collective task proficiency. 



3-21 






FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 




PLATOON MISSION: 
“On order, Pit ... 
in order to ...” 



DETERMINES 

► 



SUPPORTS 



DETERMINES 



PLATOON CRITICAL B 
TASKS & DRILLS: 
Taskl: 

Task 2: 

Task 3: 

Drill 1 
Drill 2: 



SUPPORTS 



PLATOON LEADER 
TASKS: 

Task 1: 

Task 2: 

TaskS 
Task 4 



DETERMINES ^ ^ ^ DETERMINES 

SQUAD CRITICAL to SQUAD LEADER - 

TASKS & DRILLS: TASKS: 

Task!: ^ Taskl: 

Task 2" ^ msbh i 

PPORTS Drill SUPPORTS Task 3: 

Drill 2: Task 4: 

Drill 3: 

t (determines 

I " ► INDIVIDUAL SOLDIER TASKS: 

■ Taskl: 

l- — — — Task 2: 

SUPPORTS Task 3: 



Figure 3-21. Selection of Individual Soldier Tasks 



Examples 



3-51. Figure 3 -22 illustrates the individual soldier task selection process 
for the soldiers of the infantry squad. 



INFANTRY SQUAD 
CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Enter/Clear Trench Line 

♦ Knock Out a Bunker 



DETERMINES 

► 

◄ 

SUPPORTS 



♦ L 



SQUAD-LEVEL LEADER 
TASKS: 

• Analyze Terrain 

• Perform TLPs 

• Conduct Squad Maneuver 

• Control Organic Fires 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



INDIVIDUAL SOLDIER TASKS: 

• Move as a Fire Team Member 

• Engage Target with Ml 6A2, 
M203, and M249 



Figure 3-22. Selection of Infantry Individual Soldier Tasks 

3-52. An example of individual soldier task selection for an FA battery 
FDC, howitzer section, and company FIST is shown in figure 3-23. 



3-22 






Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



COMPANY FIST CRITICAL TASKS: — - 

• Plan Fires in Support of Maneuver Ops 

• Participate in FS Rehearsals 

• Coordinate, Direct, & Adjust Other FS Assets 

• Coordinate & Control Fire Plan Execution 

• Conduct Fire Missions 

• Establish an Observation Post 



BATTERY METL: 

* Determine Firing Data 

* Conduct Fire Missions 
» Move the Battery 

* Conduct Occupation of 
Position Area 



INDIVIDUAL FO TASKS: 

# Call for & Adjust Fire 

• Establish Observation Post(s) 

* Process Data in the AN/PSG-7 







—mmm BATTERY TOC & FD C b , 

CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Determine Firing * 

Data (FDC) ’ I 

* Conduct Battle Tracking (TOC) 1 

* Coordinate Positioning & Direct ■ 

1 ^ Movement of Platoons (TOC) | 

INDIVIDUAL TASKS: — — 

• Supervise Fire Missions for 
Registration, Priority, Fire Ran 
Target, Area & Special Missions 

• Process Fire Plans Using AFC/DS 
» Execute Scheduled Fires 

• Supervise Special Fire Missions 
in Degraded Mode 



HOWITZER PLATOON 
| ^ CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Establish & Maintain 
Platoon FDC 

• Conduct Fire Missions 

• Move the Platoon 

* Conduct Occupation of 
Position Area 

INDIVIDUAL TASKS: 

• Align Close in Aiming Points with 
Panoramic Telescope 

* Check Panoramic Telescope Boresight 
with Ml 39 or Ml 40 Alignment Device 

♦ Lay a Howitzer for Initial Direction of 
Fire Using the Panoramic Telescope 

• Process Fire Missions on the Gun 
Display (GDU) 



Figure 3-23. Selection of Individual Tasks 

3-53. Individual soldier task selection for soldiers of the ambulance squad 
is shown in figure 3 _ 24. 



DETERMINES 



DS AMBULANCE SQUAD CRITICAL 
TASKS: 

* Set Up Unit (Section) Defense 

* Defend Against Level 1 Attack 

* Operate Ambulance Exchange 
Points (AXPs) 



DETERMINES 



SQUAD-LEVEL LEADER 
TASKS: 

® Set-Up Squad Defense 

* Reorganize Squad Following 
Enemy Contact While in 

the Defense 

* Supervise the 
Establishment of AXPs 



INDIVIDUAL SOLDIER TASKS: 

» Engage Targets with M16A1/M16A2 
® Construct Individual Fighting Position 

* Open the Airway 

® Manage a Convulsive and/or Seizing Patient 

* Initiate Treatment for Hypovolemic Shock 



Figure 3-24. Selection of Medical Individual Soldier Tasks 



3-23 







FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



STAFF METL 



3-54. The staff consists of the battalion staff, and attached and direct 
support CS and CSS elements. Battalion staff and CS and CSS leaders 
develop mission essential tasks that support the battalion METL. They 
use the same process as the battalion and company commanders to 
develop their METL. Staff METLs are reviewed and approved by the 
battalion executive officer. 

3r55. The battalion commander must ensure that the staff METL 
integrates combined arms tasks and functional tasks to enable the 
battalion to fight as a combined arms team. As additional assets are task- 
organized, they must be integrated into the staff. The process for 
developing the staff METL and associated staff officer tasks for the 
infantry battalion of the BCT is shown in figure 3 -2. 5. 



m 



IN BATTALION MISSION 



DETERMINES 

► 



“On order, Bn attacks,..* 
In order to...” 



SUPPORTS 




IN BATTALION METL: 

• Assault an Objective 

* Breach an Obstacle 




J [determines I 

I I [|||| IN BATTALION TOC CRITICAL TASKS: 



l*a mmmm ■» — * Plans Ops Using MDMP 
SUPPORTS * Integrate indirect Fire Support 

* Establish Common Operating Picture (COP) 

* Develop an R&S Plan 




STAFF OFFICER TASKS: 



• S3: Develop Attack Plan 

• S2: Develop an R&S Plan 

* FSO: Develop Fire Support Plan 

♦ GHEMO: Develop NBC Survey Plans 

* ENGR: Utilize Digital Terrain Support 
System (DTSS) to Produce Terrain 
Analysis Products; Develop a Scheme 
of Engineer Support (SOES) 



Figure 3-25. Infantry Battalion Staff METL Development 

3-56. The BCT FA battalion commander — as the effects coordinator 
(ECOORD) — ensures that the staff METL integrates combined arms 
tasks and fire support functional tasks to enable the battalion to support 
the BCT commander’s maneuver operations. Figure 3-26 provides an 
example of how the BCT ECOORD might develop the BCT effects 
coordination cell (ECC), battalion fire support element (FSE), and FA 
battalion TOC and FDC staff METL tasks. 



3-24 





-Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



DETERMINES 



FA BATTLION METL: 

• Coordinate FS 

• Acquire Targets 
» Deliver Fires 



BATTLION MISSION: 
“On Order, Battalion . . 



BCT FECC STAFF METL 
TASKS: 

• Establish Fire Support Cell 

• Conduct Fire Support Planning 

• Conduct Effects Coordination 



• Synchronize Fire Support 
« Participate in FS Rehearsals 



DETERMINES 



► Gain and/or Maintain Situational 
Awareness (SA) 

* Prepare Bn R&S Plan 
» Direct Operation of FA Acquisition Assets 
» Control & Coordinate Fire Plans (FDC) 

» Execute Bn Fire Missions (FDC) 



BATTALION FSE STAFF 
METL TASKS: 

* Establish Fire Support Cell 

• Synchronize Fire Support 

• Describe Battlefield’s Effects on FS 

* Determine Threat FS COAs 

* Participate in GOA Development & 
Wargaming 

• Participate in FS Rehearsals 



Figure 3-26. Direct Support (DS) Field Artillery Battalion Staff METL Development 

3-57. Figure 3-27 provides an example of how the ECOORD, deputy 
effects coordinator (DECOORD), maneuver battalion FSOs, FA battalion 
operations officer (S3), and FDO might develop supporting staff officer 
tasks to support the FA battalion METL tasks “Coordinate Fire Support” 
and “Deliver Fires.” 



FA BATTLION METL: 
« Coordinate FS 
® Acquire Targets 
• Deliver Fires 



BCT DECOORD TASKS: 

* Synchronize Fire Support 

* Participate in BCT MDMP 

* Participate in BCT R&S 
Planning 

* Lead & Conduct BCT 
Targeting Planning 



BATTALION FSO TASKS: 

* Synchronize Fire Support 
» Participate in Bn MDMP 

« Participate in Bn R&S 
Planning 

• Lead & Conduct Bn 
Targeting Planning 



DETERMINES 



— ■ — -Ht - 1 

SUPPORTS I | 



DETERMINES 



DETERMINES 



BATTLION MISSION: 
“On Order, Battalion . 



FA BATTALION S3 TASKS: 

« Lead & Conduct FA Bn MDMP 

• Conduct Battle Tracking 

• Direct Operation of FA Target 
Acquisition Assets 

• Coordinate Positioning & Direct 
Movement of Batteries 



FA BATTALION FDO TASKS: 

* Control & Coordinate Fire Plans 

* Execute Bn Fire Missions 



Figure 3-27. Direct Support (DS) Field Artillery Battalion Staff Officer Task Development 



3-25 






FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 

3 _ 58. Figure 3-28 provides an example of the development of staff METL 
and associated staff officer tasks for the BSB. 



BSB 

BSB MISSION: 
Provide CSS for 
Attack 



Figure 3-28. Brigade Support Battalion (BSB) Staff METL Development 

SPECIALTY PLATOON CRITICAL TASK LIST DEVELOPMENT 

3'59. The wide-ranging METL tasks of the battalion headquarters and 
headquarters company (HHC) to support the command, control, and 
logistics of the battalion include the critical tasks of specialty platoons. 
The collective tasks of the battalion’s specialty platoons directly support 
the battalion METL. The battalion commander could select one or more of 
these tasks as battalion battle tasks. Specialty platoon critical tasks are 
developed in the same manner as for other platoons. 

3'60. The HHC commander is responsible for specialty platoon training, 
although the battalion commander may direct a key staff element to 
exercise oversight of a specialty platoon. C2 of specialty platoons while 
conducting wartime operational missions may vary greatly depending on 
the mission and type of organization. However, the process that identifies 
specialty platoon critical tasks and training requirements remains the 
responsibility of the HHC commander. 

RESERVE COMPONENT METL DEVELOPMENT 

3-61. The METL development process is the same for AC and RC 
organizations. Battle focus is essential so RC commanders can 
concentrate their time on the most critical premobilization wartime 
training requirements. The associate AC chain of command assigns 
missions, provides wartime mission guidance, and approves the METL. 
The state adjutant general or regional support groups review and 



DETER|v||NES 



BSB METL: 

® Defend Against Level I 
and II Threats 
» Provide DS Level Combat 
Service Support 



DETERMINES 



BSB TOG CRITICAL TASKS: 

• Conduct IPB 

• Operate Base Cluster Ops Center 

• Direct Response to Threat Actions 

• Coordinate Combat Health Support 



DETERMINES 



I 



STAFF OFFICER TASKS: 

» S2/3: Conduct Threat Order of Battle for 
Each Type of Conventional or Unconventional 
Unit that Maybe Faced 

• S2/3: Write Para 4 of Intel Estimate 

• S2/3: Consolidate Base Defense Plans 
into the Overall Battalion Defensive Plans 

« S2/3: Coordinate Base Cluster Response 
to Threat 

• SPO: Coordinate Class II Support During 
Offensive Ops 

• SPO: Supervise Maintenance Management 
and Readiness Visibility 

» SPO: Coordinate Medical Supplies, 

Equipment and Medical Assemblages Support 

• SPO: Coordinate Ground Transportation Support 



3-26 




Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



coordinate RC METLs. They resource training and ensure that mission 
training tasks are executed and evaluated. Table 3-1 shows some typical 
relationships between the RC unit and its associated AC unit. 



Table 3-1. RC Training Management Roles 


RC Unit 

Category/Composition 


AC Associate 
Unit 


YTP 

Approval 


METL 

Approval 


ARNG Division 


CONUSA 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


eSBs, Typical 


CONUSA 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


eSBs, Integrated Division 


Integrated 

Division 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


FSP GO Commands 


Third Army, 
Eighth Army, 
Corps, 
CONUSA, 
ASC 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


Multiplecomponent, AC 


Commander* 


Commander 


Commander 


Multiplecomponent, RC 


Third Army, 
Corps 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


FSP & LAD < 30 (except 
GO Cmd) 


TSB** 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


Multiplecomponent, AC 


Commander* 


Commander 


Commander 


Multiplecomponent, RC 


TSB 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


Roundout (AC Division) 


Parent 

Division 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


Reinforcing Aviation (AC 
Division) 


Supported 

Division 


AC Associate 


AC Associate 


Other MTOE Units 


N/A 


RC Chain of 
Command 


RC Chain of 
Command 


TDA Organizations 


N/A 


RC Chain of 
Command 


RC Chain of 
Command 


* Unit commander at brigade (colonel) level or higher is AC associate per 
Section 1131, Title XI for assigned RC elements. Where the unit commander is 
below brigade level, TSB commander executes. 

** Selected FSP and LAD <_ 30 units associated with Third Army and USACIDC. 



ECHELON ABOVE DIVISION/ECHELON ABOVE CORPS METL 
DEVELOPMENT 

3 -62. Commanders of echelon above division (EAD) and echelon above 
corps (EAC) organizations use the same battle focus concept and METL 
development process previously described in this chapter to focus their 
training. 

TABLE OF DISTRIBUTION AND ALLOWANCES METL DEVELOPMENT 

3 _ 63. The METL development process for Table of Distribution and 
Allowances (TDA) organizations is the same as for MTOE organizations. 
For TDA organizations, the senior leader derives METL from the 
organization’s peacetime mission and any known wartime mission. The 
TDA organization’s METL represents those critical tasks that the 



3-27 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



organization must be able to perform and provides focus for the 
organization’s training 

3 _ 64. The METL must reflect tasks derived by integrating required 
support mission tasks with warfighting skills. These tasks range from 
wartime mobilization requirements to support for disasters or local 
emergencies. 

3 _ 65. Some missions may not change for TDA units during wartime 
(including soldier and equipment support requirements for TRADOC 
schools and support of recurring garrison or installation tasks). For 
example, training battalions and companies will continue to train soldiers 
and leaders. 

3‘66. A sample garrison TDA METL is shown in figure 3 -29. The garrison 
commander involves all subordinate directors in METL development. The 
mission and METL of subordinate directorates support the garrison’s 
mission and METL. This is the same relationship found between MTOE 
units. Note that subordinate directorate missions and METLs 
complement and support other directorates as well as the garrison 
mission and METL. 



DETERMINES 



SUPPORTS 



GARRISON METL: 

* Conduct Power 
Projection and 
Recovery Operations 

* In-Process, Validate, 
Deploy, Recover & 
Out -Process Reserve 
Units 



GARRISON MISSION: — ■ 
SUPPORTS “On order, conduct power 
P 1 "" projection operations ...” 



DETERMINES 



TENANT UNIT MISSION: 

^“Gn order, deploy to 
designated AOR; attacks... 

In order to...” 

TENANT UNIT METL: 

* Conduct Strategic Movement 

♦ Conduct an Attack 



DETERMINES 



DPTM MISSION: 


♦ 

DLE MISSION: 


MEDAC/DENTAC 


^OIM^SSION: 


Provide Training Si 


® Provide Logistical & 


MISSION: 


Provide/I OM C4 


Mobilization Support 


Mobilization Support 


Provide Health 


Information 




* Operate, Maintain & 


Support 


Networks 




Protect Installation 








infrastructure 

f 


i 


i 


DPTM METL: 




DLE METL: 1 


MEDAC/DENTAG METL; s 


DOIM METL: : 


• Operate a Fully 




* Provide Backup DS/GS | 


* Ensure Soldiers are | 


♦ Provide G2 & s 


Instrumented Army 




Maintenance : 


Class 1 Dental \ 


Computer/ : 


Airfield 




» Plan, Coordinate & Execute ■ 


* Vaccinate Deploying * 


Communications • 


* Provide an Aerial 




Unit Air, Rail, Convoy : 


Soldiers ; 


Support to the : 


Port of Embarkation 




& Sea Movements ■ 




Tenant Unit ■ 

' 


(APOE) to Execute 




• Provide Emergency : 


■ "i 




Tenant Unit 




Response & Disaster ■ 


1 


1 


Deployments 




Relief Operations i 


I 


I 



SUPPORTS 



SUPPORTS 



Figure 3-29. Garrison METL Development 

METL DEVELOPMENT FOR DIRECTED CHANGE OF MISSION 

3-67. When an organization is directed to conduct a mission other than 
its assigned wartime mission, such as a peacekeeping operation, the 
Army Training Management Cycle still applies. These missions can span 
the full spectrum of operations. For MTOE organizations, these missions 



3-28 




Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



may include a range of operations from combat operations in a major 
theater of war to providing humanitarian assistance or other forms of 
support to civilian authorities. For TDA organizations, these missions 
range from mobilization-related operations to installation force protection 
operations. The unit’s wartime METL serves as a foundation upon which 
adjustments may be required. 

3-68. Using the wartime METL as the foundation, commanders who are 
directed to change mission conduct a mission analysis, identify METL 
tasks, and assess training proficiency for the new mission. Any required 
adjustment to the unit’s METL for the new mission generates a similar 
requirement for subordinate units to adjust their METLs, critical task 
lists, and individual soldier task lists. 

3 '69. In cases where mission tasks involve emerging doctrine or non- 
standard tasks, commanders establish tasks, conditions, and standards 
using mission orders and guidance, lessons learned from similar 
operations, and their professional judgment. Senior commanders approve 
standards established for these tasks as part of the normal METL 
approval process. If time permits prior to deployment, units should 
execute a mission rehearsal exercise (MRE) with all participating units. 

TRAINING OBJECTIVES 

3-70. After mission essential tasks are selected, commanders develop 
each METL task statement into a complete statement of required unit 
performance for mission success. Doing so establishes the training 
objective for each METL task consisting of — 

• Task. A clearly defined and measurable activity accomplished by 
organizations and individuals. 

• Condition(s). The circumstances and environment in which a task 
is to be performed. 

• Standard. The minimum acceptable proficiency required in the 
performance of a particular training task. 

3-71. Each time a METL task is selected as a training objective, the tasks 
and standards remain the same for different training events. However, 
conditions may be varied for different training events to match the skill 
level of the training audience at the time. 



TASK 



3-72. After identifying battalion and company METLs, supporting 
platoon and squad collective tasks, and supporting leader and soldier 
tasks, leaders establish the conditions and standard for each task using 
the applicable ARTEP-MTP and STP. 



CONDITIONS 

3-73. Commanders modify conditions to fit the training environment and 
their assessment of the units’ level of proficiency. By following a crawl- 
walk-run approach to training, commanders may decide to modify 
conditions to increase the level of difficulty under which a task is 
performed. This technique is particularly useful when moving from crawl 
to walk and eventually to run level training on a specific task. The goal is 



3-29 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



to create a realistic and demanding training environment with the 
resources available. 

3-74. To modify a condition statement, the commander takes the 
following steps: 

• Reads the existing ARTEP-MTP or STP statement. (It is 
deliberately general because a more specific conditions statement 
may not apply to all units.) 

• Reads the applicable references with suggested support 
requirements and identifies the resources needed to train the 
task. 

• Considers the local situation — ammunition available, opposing 
force (OPFOR), time, terrain, ranges, TADSS, and weather 
conditions. 

• Prepares a revised condition statement. Conditions established 
should be realistic and practical. 

3-75. The condition statement includes comments on one or more of the 
following: 

• Status and capability of threat forces. 

• Equipment, material, tools, or other resources allocated for use in 
performing the task. 

• References, checklists, and other memory aids for use during 
actual task performance. 

• Physical or environmental conditions; for example, darkness, 
dense tropical forests, cold weather, or NBC conditions. 

• Assistance available during performance of the task. 

• Time allocated for task performance. 

• Restrictions or limitations. 



STANDARD 



3 _ 76. The standard for most tasks is found in the applicable ARTEP-MTP 
and STP. The standard for task performance is the Army standard. For 
tasks without published training objectives, commanders establish task, 
condition, and standards using mission orders and guidance, lessons 
learned from similar exercises or operations, and their professional 
judgment. The commander who approves these specific tasks, conditions, 
and standards also approves the unit’s METL. Commanders may use the 
following documents to help develop appropriate tasks, conditions, and 
standards: 

• ARTEP-MTP. 

• STP. 

• DA PAM 350-38. 

• Deployment or mobilization plans. 

• AUTL. 

• UJTL. 

• Army, MACOM, and local regulations. 

• Local SOP. 

• FMs. 

• Equipment TMs and TCs. 

3-77. The following training objectives are examples for BCT through 
soldier level that support the BCT METL task “Conduct an Attack.” 



3-30 




Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



Figure 3-30 through figure 3 _ 35 cover the training objectives for an 
infantry battalion, down to the soldier level, that supports the BCT 
METL task “Conduct and Attack.” 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Conduct an Attack. 


Conditions: 


The brigade is conducting operations independently or as 
part of a division or Army forces (ARFOR) and has received 
an operation order (OPORD) or fragmentary order (FRAGO) 
to conduct an attack at the location and time specified. 
Coalition forces and noncombatants may be present in the 
operational environment. 


Standard: 


1. Brigade leaders gain and or maintain situational awareness 
(SA). Brigade commander and staff receive an order or 
anticipate a new mission and begin the military 
decisionmaking process (MDMP). Brigade task organizes 
forces within the brigade. 

2. Effects coordination cell (ECC) obtains guidance from the 
commander; plans, coordinates, and achieves the desired 
effects utilizing organic and attached assets. 

3. Staff plans mobility, counter-mobility, and survivability; 
nuclear, biological, and chemical support; air defense (AD) 
support; and combat service support supporting operations. 

4. Brigade commander and staff conduct risk management. 

5. Brigade commander and staff conduct backbriefs and 
rehearsals to ensure that subordinates understand 
commander's intent and concept. 

6. Brigade executes the attack; masses all available combat 
power to destroy enemy in accordance with the commander’s 
intent. 

7. Brigade consolidates and reorganizes as necessary. 

8. Brigade continues operations as necessary. 



Figure 3-30. Example of Training Objective for a BCT Mission Essential Task 



3-31 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Conduct an Attack Against a Stationary Force. 


Conditions: 


The battalion is conducting operations independently or as 
part of the brigade and has received an operation order 
(OPORD) or fragmentary order (FRAGO) to conduct a 
force-oriented attack against a stationary force at the 
location and time specified. Coalition forces and 
noncombatants may be present in the operational 
environment. 


Standard: 


1. Battalion leaders gain and or maintain situational 
awareness (SA). Battalion commander and staff receive an 
order or anticipate a new mission and begin the military 
decisionmaking process (MDMP). Staff planning: organizes 
the battalion to accomplish the mission; integrates and 
synchronizes the BOS. 

2. Battalion leaders conduct risk management. 

3. Battalion prepares for the attack: maximizes use of 
available time; conducts R&S. Units conduct pre-combat 
checks and rehearsals. 

4. Battalion executes the attack; masses all available 
combat power to destroy enemy in accordance with the 
commander’s intent. 

5. Battalion consolidates and reorganizes as necessary. 

6. Battalion secures and processes EPWs as required. 

7. Battalion treats and evacuates casualties. 

8. Battalion continues operations as necessary. 



Figure 3-31. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Battalion, 
BCT Mission Essential Task 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Assault an Objective. 


Conditions: 


The company is conducting operations as part of the 
battalion and has received an operation order (OPORD) or 
fragmentary order (FRAGO) to assault an objective. The 
company has been provided guidance on the ROE. Coalition 
forces and noncombatants may be present in the operational 
environment. 


Standard: 


The company moves tactically to assault, support, or breach 
positions using the appropriate formation and technique. The 
company provides supporting fires. The company assaults 
the objective and destroys, captures, or forces the enemy to 
withdraw. The company complies with the ROE. 



Figure 3-32. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Company 
Mission Essential Task 



3-32 






Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Assault an Objective. 


Conditions: 


The platoon is conducting operations as part of a larger force 
and has received an operation order (OPORD) or 
fragmentary order (FRAGO) to assault an objective. The 
company has been provided guidance on the ROE. Coalition 
forces and noncombatants may be present in the operational 
environment. 


Standard: 


The platoon moves tactically to assault, support, or 
breach positions using the appropriate formation and 
technique. The platoon assaults the objective and destroys, 
captures, or forces the enemy to withdraw. The platoon 
complies with the ROE. 



Figure 3-33. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Platoon Task 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Knock Out a Bunker. 


Conditions: 


The squad is conducting operations as part of a larger force 
and has received an operations order (OPORD) or 
fragmentary order (FRAGO) to knock out a bunker at a 
specified location. All necessary personnel and equipment 
are available. The squad has communications with higher, 
adjacent, and subordinate elements. The squad has been 
provided guidance on the rules of engagement (ROE) and/or 
rules of interaction (ROI). Coalition forces and 
noncombatants may be present in the operational 
environment. 


Standard: 


The squad knocks out the bunker in accordance with 
tactical standing operating procedures (TSOP), the order, 
and/or commander’s guidance. The squad destroys the 
designated bunker by killing, capturing, or forcing the 
withdrawal of the enemy. The squad complies with ROE 
and/or ROI. 



Figure 3-34. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Squad Task 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Engage Targets with an M203 Grenade Launcher. 


Conditions: 


In a field or garrison environment, given a zeroed M203 
grenade launcher mounted on an M16A1 or M16A2 rifle, 
enemy targets located at engageable ranges, and sufficient 
ammunition. 


Standard: 


Enemy targets are destroyed or disabled without causing 
injury or death to friendly personnel 



Figure 3-35. Example of Training Objective for an Infantry Individual Soldier Task 



3-33 







FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



3 -78. Figure 3 -.36 through figure 3-40 cover the training objectives for a 
brigade support battalion and its brigade support medical company, down 
to the soldier level, that support the BCT METL task “Conduct an 
Attack.” 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Provide DS-level Combat Service Support (Manage 
Distribution Systems). 


Conditions: 


The BSB HQ has analog and digital communication with 
higher and lower HQs. The higher HQ OPORD with all 
annexes, status reports, maps, overlays, and other required 
documents are continuously updated using BFACS, MC4, 
logistics and combat health support STAMIS, and movement 
tracking devices. Unit higher and lower TSOPs are available. 
Logistics and CHS requirements are generated by the 
brigade and attached units. Sustainment controls have been 
established by the brigade service support order. The 
distribution management center (DMC) provides the brigade 
with total asset visibility and in transit visibility (TAV/ITV) of 
commodities, movements, units within, units assigned, or 
units inbound or outbound from the battlespace. The DMC 
conducts reach operations using digital communications to 
program and obtain sustainment resources from worldwide 
sources. The DMC integrates regionally available 
contracted, host nation, or third country resources into the 
brigade distribution system. The DMC has authority to direct, 
redirect, cross-level, or mass logistics and combat health 
support (CHS) resources at critical points within brigade 
battlespace. 


Standard: 


The DMC is managed with TAV/ITV of all commodities, 
movements and units within, assigned, inbound, or outbound 
to the brigade area of responsibility in accordance with 
command directives. 



Figure 3-36. Example of Training Objective for a Brigade Support Battalion, 

BCT Mission Essential Task 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Perform Combat Health Support Operations. 


Conditions: 


Unit is receiving and evacuating patient(s). The unit is 
providing CHS from its established field or MOUT location in 
support of BCT tactical operations. AXPs may be 
established. Module(s) for reconstitution or reinforcement 
may be provided to forward supported elements. The unit is 
equipped with components of the ABCS system and MC4. In 
addition, the unit uses analog communications or 
messengers, as required. TSOP and required publications 
are available. This task is performed under all environmental 
conditions. The unit may be subject to attack by threat 
forces, including air, ground, NBC, or DE attack. 


Standard: 


Unit CHS is provided in accordance with the TSOP. 



Figure 3-37. Example of Training Objective fora Brigade Support Medical 
Company Mission Essential Task 



3-34 






Mission Essential Task List (METL) Development 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Provide Ground Ambulance Evacuation Support. 


Conditions: 


Battalion aid station or supported units have requested 
ground ambulance support. Ambulance support may be pre- 
positioned with the supported unit or dispatched from the 
unit area. Ambulance personnel are briefed on location and 
directions to location of supported unit casualties. Casualties 
located in supported units may be contaminated and require 
initial medical treatment. Authorized medical supplies and 
equipment are in the ambulance. AXPs may be used. 
Ambulance modules may be deployed forward for 
reconstitution or reinforcement of supported battalion aid 
station. The unit is equipped with components of the ABCS 
system and MC4. In addition, the unit uses analog 
communications or messengers, as required. This task is 
performed under all environmental conditions. The unit may 
be subject to attack by threat forces, including air, ground, 
NBC, or DE attack. 


Standard: 


Patient(s) are evacuated in accordance with FM 8-10-4, 
FM 8-10-6, and the TSOP. 



Figure 3-38. Example of Training Objective for an Ambulance Platoon Task 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Ambulance Squad Operates Ambulance Exchange Point(s) 
(AXPs). 


Conditions: 


Ambulance exchange points (AXPs) will be employed to 
reduce the time required for casualty evacuation from the 
BAS or supported unit. Ambulance personnel in the 
supporting and supported unit are briefed on the location of 
the AXP(s) and primary and alternate routes to the AXP. 
Authorized medical supplies and equipment are in the 
ambulance. Ambulance modules are deployed forward for 
reconstitution or reinforcement of supported BAS. The unit is 
equipped with components of the ABCS system and MC4. In 
addition, the unit uses analog communications or 
messengers, as required. This task is performed under all 
environmental conditions. 


Standard: 


Patients are exchanged from one ground evacuation 
platform to another in accordance with FM 8-10-4, 
FM 8-10-6, and the TSOP. 



Figure 3-39. Example of Training Objective for an Ambulance Squad Task 



Mission 

Essential 

Task: 


Open the Airway. 


Conditions: 


You are evaluating a casualty who is not breathing. You are 
not in an NBC environment. 


Standard: 


Complete all of the steps required to open the casualty’s 
airway without causing unnecessary injury. 



Figure 3-40. Example of Training Objective for Individual Soldier Task 



3-35 







FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



SUMMARY 



3-79. The METL, with supporting soldier, leader, and unit collective 
tasks, provides the foundation for the training plan. The battalion and 
company commanders, in concert with the CSM, lSGs, and subordinate 
leaders, are now ready to plan the unit training. 



3-36 




Chapter 4 

Planning 



Training in all its phases must be intensive ... It must be intelligently directed so that 
every’ individual [soldier] including the last private in the ranks, can understand the 
reasons for the exertions he is called upon to make. 

General Dwight D. Eisenhower 




CONTENTS 



Training Planning Process 4-2 

Section I. Training Assessment 4-3 

Assessments by Commanders of Battalions, 

Brigades, and Above 4-4 

Assessments by Commanders of Companies, 

Batteries, and Troops 4-5 

Assessments by Noncommissioned Officers ....4-5 

Assessment Ratings 4-6 

Evaluation Ratings 4-6 

Brigade Combat Team (BCT) Commander 

Assessment Example 4-6 

Section II. Training Strategy 4-27 

Overview 4-27 

Combined Arms Training Strategy (CATS) 4-30 



Training Adaptive Leaders and Units 4-30 

Live, Virtual, and Constructive Training 4-32 

Sample Commander Training Strategies 4-34 

Section III. Command Training Guidance 4-45 



Section IV. Training Plans 4-46 

Planning Calendars 4-47 

Time Management 4-49 

Long-Range Planning 4-52 

Short-Range Planning 4-56 

Near-Term Planning 4-71 

Training Meetings 4-75 

Training Schedules 4-78 

Summary 4-81 



4-1 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



4-1. Training excellence requires mastery of Army doctrine by all leaders 
in the chain of command. Commanders must allow subordinates the 
freedom to develop their training programs in concert with their 
approved METL. Training meetings and training schedule lock-ins must 
work if excellence in training is to be attained. Commanders must 
establish discipline in the training management process and lock in 
training calendars in accordance with established doctrine. 

4-2. Division and brigade-level commanders establish direction and focus 
for training. They allocate resources, ensure stability and predictability, 
protect training from interference, and discipline the training planning 
process. Division and brigade commanders ensure that ARTEP-MTP and 
STP standards are met during training; if they are not met, these 
commanders ensure that retraining is conducted until the tasks are 
performed to standard. They fence resources and shield prime time 
training from unprogrammed, last-minute, non-mission-related tasks. 
They reduce compliance training requirements in their command training 
guidance (CTG). They establish policies that allow exceptions to 
compliance training requirements to enable subordinates to focus on 
METL proficiency. Division and brigade commanders ensure that all 
subordinate leaders discipline the training management process. 

4-3. Excellence in training requires excellence in both training 
management and training execution — but one cannot achieve excellence 
in training execution without excellence in training management. 

TRAINING PLANNING PROCESS 

4-4. This chapter describes the training planning process of the Army 
Training Management Cycle and illustrates how leaders plan training. 
The training planning process links the unit’s METL with execution of 
battle focused training by emphasizing the connection of the unit’s METL 
assessment with the execution of battle focused training. Figure 4-1 
depicts the training planning process used to develop battle focused 
training programs. 




Figure 4-1. Training Planning Process 



4-2 





Planning 



4-5. The training planning process is the same for long-range, short- 
range, and near-term training planning. Commanders at all echelons — 
AC and RC, MTOE, and TDA — assess training, provide guidance, and 
publish training plans. What differs is the complexity of assessment, the 
scope, scale, and form of the command guidance, and associated future 
planning horizons between command echelons in AC and RC 
organizations and units. These differences are by deliberate design and 
are intended to simplify how units and organizations address the common 
training challenge at all echelons — maintaining warfighting readiness. 
Organizations and units achieve warfighting readiness when 
commanders ensure that training is executed to the Army standard 
under realistic conditions. Maintaining warfighting readiness requires 
senior commanders to give subordinate commanders adequate time to 
plan, prepare, and execute training to standard. Senior commanders 
support execution of training to standard when they — 

• Enforce and discipline the training management process. 

• Emphasize comprehensive organizational and unit aggregate 
assessments. 

• Develop training strategies that integrate combat, CS, and CSS 
unit training plans in the form of combined arms multiechelon 
training. 

• Align training priorities and allocate available training resources 
with operational METL training requirements. 

• Protect subordinate units from changes once training schedules 
are published. 

4-6. Commanders integrate the risk management process with the 
training planning process to enable tough, realistic training. During the 
training planning phase, commanders identify training proficiency 
shortfalls that may create a risk hazard, as well as other safety hazards. 
They then establish controls to eliminate those hazards. Risk 
management is as integral to the operations process as it is to the 
training planning process. During operations, commanders identify 
enemy capabilities and other hazards that may prevent successful 
completion of the mission, and identify actions to reduce or mitigate those 
capabilities and hazards. In both training and operations, risk 
management is a continuous process. 



SECTION I. TRAINING ASSESSMENT 



4-7. A training assessment begins the training planning process — 
whether one is developing long-range training plans, short-range plans, 
or near-term training schedules. Commanders assess their unit’s ability 
to execute mission essential tasks based on personal observations, 
training evaluation results, and input from subordinates. For battle tasks 
that support their METL, commanders collect performance assessments 
from responsible subordinates, key staff members, and NCO leaders. 
Additionally, commanders analyze all available evaluations of task 
proficiency from recent training events. Commanders use these 
evaluations, personal observations, and other feedback (such as CTC take 
home packages) to arrive at an overall assessment of the unit’s ability to 
perform each METL task. Results of the commander’s assessment 
represent training requirements — tasks on which performance needs 



4-3 






FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



improvement and other tasks on which performance needs to be 
sustained. 



4-8. Assessment links the evaluation of training that has been executed 
to the planning of upcoming training. The commander develops a strategy 
to improve proficiency on specific weaknesses and plans sustainment 
training on demonstrated strengths. Figure 4-2 highlights that the 
training planning process starts with the commander’s training 
assessment. 




Figure 4-2. Training Planning Process (Training Assessment) 

4-9. A risk assessment parallels the training assessment. It identifies 
training proficiency shortfalls that could create a hazard and prevent 
achievement of the training objectives. Hazard controls in the form of 
education and training, physical safety measures, and avoidance are then 
established to enhance safety and promote realism. 

ASSESSMENTS BY COMMANDERS OF BATTALIONS, BRIGADES, AND 
ABOVE 



4-10. Commanders of battalions, brigades, and above rely on their own 
firsthand observations as well as evaluation input and feedback from the 
following sources : 

• Subordinate commander evaluations of their unit’s current 
proficiency on supporting battle tasks. 

• Coordinating, special, and personal staff officer evaluations of 
their staff s current proficiency on supporting staff battle tasks. 

• NCO leader evaluations of their unit’s current proficiency on 
supporting critical individual, crew, and small team tasks. 

• All leader’s evaluations of their subordinate leaders’ current 
proficiency on critical leader tasks. 

• ARTEP external evaluations (EXEVALs), CTC rotation take- 
home packages, AT reports, operational and readiness 
deployment exercise AARs, Expert Infantry Badge (EIB) and 
Expert Field Medic Badge (EFMB) results, field training exercise 
(FTX) evaluations, etc. 



4-4 








Planning 



• Organizational Inspection Program (OIP) trend reports, and other 
reports, such as monthly unit status reports (USRs), etc. 

• Subordinate commanders’ risk assessments of training shortfalls 
that could create a hazard. 

ASSESSMENTS BY COMMANDERS OF COMPANIES, BATTERIES, AND 
TROOPS 



4" 11. Company, battery, and troop commanders likewise rely on their 
own firsthand observations as well as evaluation input and feedback from 
the following sources : 

• Subordinate leader evaluations of their unit’s current proficiency 
on supporting critical collective tasks. 

• 1SG, PSG, and other key NCO evaluations of their unit’s current 
proficiency on supporting critical section, squad, crew, and 
individual soldier tasks. 

• All leader’s evaluations of their subordinate leaders’ current 
proficiency on critical leader tasks. 

• EXEVALs, CTC rotation take-home packages, AT reports, 
operational and readiness deployment exercise AARs, results and 
trends from higher headquarter’s OIP, and other reports such as 
monthly USRs, etc. 

• Subordinate leader reports on risk management principles and 
potential training hazards. 

ASSESSMENTS BY NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICERS 

4-12. NCOs may use a leader book and battle rosters to record section, 
squad, crew, and soldier tasks evaluations — 

• Leader books. Leader books are a tool for the NCO to maintain 
up-to-date, easy-to-reference information on soldiers, training 
status, maintenance status, and equipment accountability. NCOs 
use these books to record and track soldier proficiency on mission- 
oriented tasks. The exact composition of leader books varies 
depending on the mission and type of unit. Leader books are used 
to — 

■ Track and evaluate soldiers’ training status and proficiency 
on essential soldier tasks. 

■ Provide feedback to the chain of command on the training 
proficiency of the squad or crew. 

■ Conduct soldier performance counseling. 

• Battle rosters. Battle rosters are maintained at battalion level 
and below to track key training information on selected mission 
essential systems. The exact composition of battle rosters varies 
depending on the mission and type of unit. Battle rosters are used 
to — 

■ Track such pertinent training data as crew stability, manning 
levels, and qualification status. 

■ Track training and qualification status of backup operators or 
crew members assigned in other positions in the organization. 

■ Track key training information on selected weapon and 
support systems, such as tanks, howitzers, automated C2 
systems, forklifts, etc. 



4-5 




FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



ASSESSMENT RATINGS 

4-13. The commander’s training assessment is required for each METL 
task. Task proficiency is rated as — 

• “T” (trained): The unit is trained and has demonstrated 
proficiency in accomplishing the task to the Army standard. The 
leader judges task performance to be free of significant 
shortcomings. Training on “T” tasks is designed to sustain 
proficiency on that task. 

• “P” (needs practice): The unit can perform the task with some 
shortcomings. Performance has demonstrated that the unit does 
not achieve the standard without some difficulty or has failed to 
perform some task steps to standard. The shortcomings are not 
severe enough to require complete retraining. Only refresher 
training is required. 

• “U” (untrained): The unit cannot demonstrate an ability to 

achieve wartime proficiency. The leader prepares a 
comprehensive plan to train all supporting tasks not executed to 
standard. Unless the task is a new METL task, a rating of “U” 
indicates a serious training deficiency and reflects on the unit’s 
wartime readiness posture. 

EVALUATION RATINGS 

4-14. Evaluation ratings are given for specific task proficiency and should 
not be confused with leader assessments. Evaluation ratings are ratings 
assigned directly to the performance of a specific task or component steps 
of a task. The standard evaluation ratings, discussed further in chapter 6, 
are as follows: 

• “GO”: The task or performance step of a task was performed to 
standard. A rating of GO is normally awarded if all steps in the 
task are passed. 

• “NO GO”: The task or any performance step in the task was not 
performed to standard. 

BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM COMMANDER ASSESSMENT EXAMPLE 

DESCRIPTION 



4-15. The following discussion illustrates the conduct of the brigade 
commander’s assessment of the BCT’s overall training proficiency on the 
METL task “Conduct an Attack.” The example demonstrates the bottom- 
up feed of training assessments of individual task and collective tasks 
proficiency from three different battalions and the brigade staff. This 
bottom-up flow enables the brigade commander to develop a training 
strategy to improve the BCT’s proficiency. 

4-16. An extract from the BCT commander’s overall METL assessment 
for the task “Conduct an Attack” is shown in Table 4-1. As shown, the 
BCT commander has rendered an overall assessment of the METL task 
“Conduct an Attack” as “P” (needs practice) based on the analysis of unit 
and staff evaluation input, personal observations, and other records and 
reports. 



4-6 




Planning 



Table 4-1. BCT Commander’s Combined Arms Training Assessment, 
METL Task: “Conduct an Attack”: “P” 



BCT UNITS 





FA 

Bn 


Ml 

CO 


EN 

CO 


BSC 


1-77 

IN 


2-77 

IN 


3-77 

IN 


AT 

CO 


BSB 


Overall 


Establish Common Ops Picture 


P 


P 


U 


P 


P 


T 


P 


U 


P 


P 


IOMT FBCB2, EPLRS & SINCGARS 








P 












P 


EOM AN/TSC-154 TACSAT Terminal 








P 












P 


Conduct Area Recon 










P 


P 


T 






P 


Integrate Sensor Troop into R & S 




P 
















P 


Conduct CM, IP&D 




P 
















P 


Perform Target Development 




P 
















P 


Conduct ASAS Ops 




P 
















P 


Coordinate Fire Support 


P 




P 




P 


P 


P 


P 




P 


Acquire Targets 


P 


















P 


Deliver Fires 


P 


















P 


Assault an Objective 










P 


P 


P 






P 


Breach an Obstacle 










U 


P 


U 






U 


Conduct Engineer Planning and 
Coordination 


P 


P 


P 




P 


P 


P 




P 


P 


Conduct M/CM/S Ops 






P 




P 


T 


P 






P 


Defend Against Level 1 and II Threats 


















P 


P 


Develop DS Level CSS 


















P 


P 


Identify/Assess Hazards 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 



LEGEND 

□ Combined Arms Tasks 

□ Leader Tasks 

□ Functional Tasks 



4-17. The BCT commander began the assessment of the METL task 
“Conduct an Attack” with a review of the METL crosswalk shown in 
figure 4-3. The BCT commander used this crosswalk as a start point to 
identify specific combined arms tasks and functional tasks on which 
evaluation input was required from battalions, separate companies, and 
staff sections. 

4-18. Combined arms training presents commanders with unique 
assessment challenges. Combined arms training assessments require 
commanders to consider combined arms task and functional task 
evaluations to arrive at an accurate assessment of their organization’s 
METL proficiency. 



4-7 












FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



SUPPORTS 



SUPPORTS 

-BCT METL: 

Conduct an Attack 

DETERMINES 



DETERMINES 



m 



BCT MISSION: 

“On order, BCT attacks , 
In order to ...” 



1 



DETERMINES 



r 

Bio 



J 



J 



J 



J 



Ml 



& 



BSB 



1 



IN BATTALION Ml COMPANY 

MISSION: MISSION; 

“On order, Bn attacks... Provide ISR 
I n ord er to . . . ” I nt el I i g ence Support 

far an ATTACK 



FA BATTALION 
MISSION: 
Provide FS for 
an ATTACK 



EN MISSION: 
Provide Mobility 
Support for an 
ATTACK 



BSB MISSION: 
Provide CSS 
for an ATTACK 



... j„ 



IN BATTALION METL: 

* Assault an Objective 

• Breach an Obstacle 



Ml COMPANY METL: 

* Conduct CM. IP&D 

• Perform Target 
Development 

+ Conduct AS AS 
Ops 



| FA BATTALION METL: I 


| EN METL: 


SI BSB METL: \\ 


• * Coordinate FS : 


; • Conduct EN 


! l • Defend Against 1 1 


jjj * Acquire Targets l 


| Planning & Coord 


: : Level 1 & Level II 1 5 


I * Deliver Fires : 


’ • Conduct M/CM/S 


: i Threats j 1 




i Ops 


” * Provide DS Level ■; 


%■■■ Bunnell g g «>• 





: ; css ■ ■ 



BSC MISSION: 
Provide C4 Ops 
for an ATTACK 



BSC METL: 

* Establish COP 

• IOMT FBCB2, 
EPLRS, 
SINCGARS 



SUPPORTS 



SUPPORTS 



Figure 4-3. METL Crosswalk 

BCT SUBORDINATE COMMANDERS’ ASSESSMENT INPUT 

4-19. To arrive at the assessment in table 4-1, subordinate commanders 
identified specific battalion and separate company shortcomings. Some of 
the subordinate unit shortcomings they identified are — 

• 1-77 IN: 

■ “P for “Assault an Objective.” 

■ “U” for “Breach an Obstacle.” 

• FA battalion: 

■ “P” for “Coordinate Fire Support.” 

■ “P” for “Acquire Targets.” 

■ “P” for “Deliver Fires.” 

• MI company: 

■ “P” for “Conduct Collection Management (CM) and 
Intelligence Production and Dissemination (IP&D).” 

■ “P” “Perform Target Development.” 

■ “P” for “Conduct All Source Analysis System (ASAS) 
Operations.” 

• Engineer company: 

■ “P” for “Conduct Engineer Planning and Coordination.” 

■ “P” for “Conduct Mobility/CounterMobility/Survivability 
(M/CM/S) Operations.” 

• Brigade Signal Company (BSC): 

■ “P” for “Establish Common Operational Picture (COP).” 

■ “P” for “Install, Operate, Maintain & Troubleshoot (IOMT) 
FBCB2, EPLRS & SINCGARS.” 

■ “P” for “Employ, Operate & Maintain (EOM) AN/TSC-154 
TACSAT.” 



4-8 












Planning 



• BSB: 

■ “P” for “Defend Against Level I and II Threats.” 

■ “P” for “Provide Direct Support (DS) Level CSS.” 

4-20. The following subsections walk through the bottom-up feedback the 
subordinate commanders used to provide their combined arms task(s) 
and functional task(s) evaluation input to the BCT commander’s overall 
assessment of the METL task “Conduct an Attack.” For purposes of 
brevity, the examples highlight only selected input from the 1-77 IN 
battalion, the FA battalion, the BSB battalion, and the BCT staff training 
assessments. These assessments conclude in the brigade commander’s 
training assessment and begin the development of the BCT training 
strategy. 

Infantry Battalion Assessment Input 

4-21. The 1-77 IN commander assesses “Breach an Obstacle” as “U”, and 
“Assault an Objective” as “P”. Figure 4-4 provides a simple illustration of 
bottom-up feedback and input the commander receives and considers in 
determining the unit’s current proficiency on this particular METL task. 




BRIGADE METL TASK: 

• Conduct an Attack “P’ 




BATTALION METL TASK(S): 

* Breach an Obstacle “U” 

* Assault an Objective “P” 



t 



Ml 



IN BATTALION TOC CRITICAL TASKS: 

* Plan Ops Using MIDMP “P” 

* Develop Bn R&S Plan “P” 

* Establish Common Operating 
Picture (COP) “P” 

* Integrate Indirect Fire Support “P” 



COMPANY METL TASK(S): 

* Assault an Objective “P” 

* Breach an Obstacle “U” 

* Integrate Indirect Fire Support “P” 



IMI 



PLATOON CRITICAL COLLECTIVE TASK: 

* Assault an Objective “P” 

* Breach an Obstacle “U” 

LEADER TASKS (SQUAD & FIRE TEAM): 

* Conduct Squad Maneuver “P” 

* Control Organic Fires “P” 



m 



SQUAD CRITICAL TASK(S): 

• Breach an Obstacle S ‘U” 

• Follow and Support “P” 

INDIVIDUAL SOLDIER TASKS: 

* Engage Targets with M249 t M203, SQUAD CRITICAL DRILLS 

M16A2 .... “P” » Enter/Clear Trench Line “U” 

♦ Move as a Fire Team Member “U” * Knock Out a Bunker “P” 



Figure 4-4. “Bottom-Up” Input (Conduct an Attack) 

4-22. Tables 4-2 through 4-5 illustrate the detailed, bottom-up input the 
infantry battalion commander uses to assist in the BCT commander’s 
assessment. 

4-23. Squad leader input. The bottom-up input starts with the squad 
leader’s evaluation of the team leaders’ and soldiers’ ability to perform 
supporting critical leader and individual tasks. Note that these leader 



4-9 





FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



and individual tasks are common to almost all potential critical squad 
collective tasks and drills. The squad leader reviews the team leader’s 
and individual soldier’s training records and identifies the following 
shortcomings: 

• Individual tasks: 

• “P” for engaging targets (day and night) with M16A2, M203, 
and M249 SAW. 

• “U” for “Move as a Fire Team Member.” 

• Fire team leader tasks: 

■ “P” for “Control Organic Fires.” 

■ “P” for “Conduct Squad Maneuver.” 

■ “P” for “Analyze Terrain.” 

■ “P” for “Conduct Troop Leading Procedures.” 

■ “P” for “Identify and Assess Hazards.” 

4-24. Table 4-2 summarizes the squad leader’s training assessment. 



Table 4-2. Squad Leader’s Training Assessment, 
Squad Critical Task: “Knock Out a Bunker”: “P” 


Individual Tasks 




Tm Ldr 


M203 


M249 


AT 


DM 


Tm Ldr 


M203 


M249 


AT 


DM 


Enter / Clear Trench 


P 


U 


U 


U 


U 


P 


P 


U 


U 


U 


Knock Out a Bunker 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Analyze Terrain 


P 










P 










Conduct a Rehearsal 


P 










U 










Conduct TLP's 


P 










P 










Plan Supporting Fires 


P 










P 










Move as a Fire Team Member 


U 


U 


U 


U 


U 


P 


P 


U 


U 


U 


Conduct Squad Maneuver 


P 










P 










Control Organic Fires 


P 










P 










Engage Targets with M24 Sniper 
Rifle 










P 










P 


Engage Targets with Javelin 








P 










P 




Engage Targets with M16A2 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Engage Targets with M203 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Engage Targets with M249 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Treat and Evacuate Casualties 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Identify/Assess Hazards 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


LEGEND 

□ Combined Arms Tasks 

□ Leader Tasks 

□ Functional Tasks 



4-10 









Planning 



4-25. Platoon leader input. The platoon leader reviews squad collective 
tasks, drills, and individual soldier tasks evaluations that impacted on 
the platoon’s proficiency to execute the critical task “Assault an 
Objective” with the platoon sergeant and squad leaders. The platoon 
leader identifies the following shortcomings: 

• Rifle squads : 

■ “P” or “U” for “Enter/Clear a Trench.” 

■ “P” for “Knock Out a Bunker.” 

■ “P” or “U” for “Support by Fire.” 

■ “U” for “Breach an Obstacle.” 

• Weapons squad: 

■ “U” for “Support by Fire.” 

■ “P” for “Attack by Fire.” 

• Squad leader tasks: 

■ “P” for “Conduct Troop Leading Procedures.” 

■ “P” for “Analyze Terrain.” 

■ “P” for “Identify and Assess Hazards.” 

4-26. Table 4-3 summarizes the platoon leader’s training assessment. 



Table 4-3. 1st Platoon Leader’s Training Assessment, 
Platoon Critical Task: “Assault an Objective”: “P” 



MAI 1-77 IN 





PSG 


FO 


Medic 


1 Squad 


2 Squad 


3 Squad 


Weapons Squad 


Overall 


Enter / Clear Trench 


P 






U 


P 


P 




P 


Knock Out a Bunker 


P 






P 


P 


P 




P 


Conduct TLP 


T 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Analyze Terrain 


T 






P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


. , , , 


















integrate indirect Fire 
Support 


T 






P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Plan Supporting Fires 


T 






U 


P 


P 




P 


Conduct an Area Recon 








T 


P 


T 


P 


P 


Support by Fire 


P 






P 


U 


P 


U 


U 


Conduct a Rehearsal 


T 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Assault an Objective 


P 














P 


Attack By Fire 


P 












P 


P 


Breach an Obstacle 


T 






U 


P 


U 




U 


Treat and Evacuate 
Casualties 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


P 


Identify/Assess Hazards 


T 


P 


P 


P 


T 


P 


T 


P 



LEGEND 

□ Combined Arms Tasks 

□ Leader Tasks 

□ Functional Tasks 



4-11 















FM 7-1 (FM 25-101) 



4-27. Company commander input. The company commander reviews 
platoon critical collective task, and leader task evaluations that impact on 
the compa
…[truncated]