Training readiness stems from attaining proficiency in individual and collective tasks. To do that, unit commanders develop their unit training plan (UTP), focusing on the tasks to train, based on the higher commander’s guidance. This is battle-focused training. Following the general framework of the military decisionmaking process (MDMP) (or troop leading procedures [TLP] for company and below), unit commanders begin the process to determine the METs—what to train. Training readiness is at the core of this determination—whether it is training to maintain and sustain certain capabilities or training to meet the requirements of an assigned mission.
The Unit Training Plan (UTP)
Each unit begins a training cycle based on training guidance from the next higher commander. The unit then develops a long-range plan known as the Unit Training Plan (UTP) to progressively develop and sustain training proficiencies. Before a training event begins, leaders and staff complete much work well in advance of training. Leaders prepare detailed plans, develop training objectives, and most importantly coordinate the resources necessary to train. Additionally, leaders determine who will observe the training and determine the criteria observers will use for evaluating performance. Observed training is recorded by leaders and evaluators. These recorded evaluations provide commanders an essential part of the training feedback mechanism necessary to make accurate and objective assessments of proficiency. Commanders continually assess training proficiency to ensure the unit and individual Soldiers meet task and weapon standards. Each training event involves planning for, preparing for, executing, and assessing training. (ADP 7-0)
The commander is central to determining the few tasks on which the unit must train. Commanders, with the assistance of unit leadership, follow the operations process.
Commanders first plan for training. They identify the collective tasks on which to train, identify, and sequence training events; identify resources required; and provide the guidance necessary to achieve mission readiness. While commanders plan, they exercise mission command to enable their subordinates to determine how they will achieve their training objectives. Thorough preparation ensures that training conditions reflect the expected mission and that commanders have the resources and enablers necessary to train. Commanders then execute the training. Lastly, they assess the training. Assessments help commanders determine if units need to retrain tasks and if the training plan requires modification. The process of determining essential tasks begins with receipt of guidance from the higher commander.
Each unit commander begins the training cycle with top-down training guidance from the higher commander. The receipt of guidance begins a process of determining the correct collective tasks on which to train. The commander then develops a UTP to conduct that training in the time allotted. Planning for training follows the MDMP for battalion and above or TLP for company and below.
This article is an extract from "TLS7: The Leader’s SMARTbook, 7th Ed. (Leadership as a Dynamic of Combat Power)" by The Lightning Press. Download a free PDF sample and learn more at: TLS7: The Leader’s SMARTbook, 7th Ed. (Leadership as a Dynamic of Combat Power).
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