National Training Center (NTC) Analysis

Realistic combined-arms training is a central Army requirement. The comprehensive NTC development program represents a major commitment by the Army to satisfy that requirement for its armored and mechanized forces. The objective of the present report was to assist the Army in achieving an early NTC operational capability with minimum technical, schedule, and cost risks. This objective has been achieved. When fully operational, the experiential learning and evaluation environment which the NTC will provide has the potential to raise the level of unit tactical effectiveness to a point never before achieved in peacetime. Several unique attributes of the NTC support this conclusion Its size and location away from civilian communities will permit the unrestricted exercise of battalion task forces and a wide array of supporting tactical systems. Its application of advanced technology devices such as lasers, computers, position location systems, and munition simulators will create a near-combat environment for experimental learning. Its one-of-a-type nature also will permit the development of skillful and dedicated opposing force, the stationing of heavy equipment modified to meet NTC needs, the deployment of special communications, and the employment of highly selected controllers and training personnel.