Mission Essential Competencies: The Operational Application of Today's Training Analysis for Tomorrow's Advanced Distributed Training

摘要

Advances in combat aviation simulation allow modern warfighters to routinely train in complex scenarios that have not previously been available. This new capability led the USAF Air Combat Command (ACC) to reassess traditional methods of training analysis and "co-chair" the development of the Mission Essential Competency (MEC) process. This process organizes warfighter inputs, identifies combat performance requirements and the training methods and media best suited to developing and maintaining proficiencies necessary to be successful in complex environments. Additionally, the components of Distributed Mission Operations (DMO) offer a multitude of training opportunities that range from advancing the proficiency of the individual warfighter to exercising large groups of warfighters in a specific scenario. Complete use of the advantages of advanced simulation, both in a local "stand alone" mode and in distribution with teams of various sizes and composition must be carefully planned and coordinated to ensure the warfighter remains the target of all training activities. As a result of the MEC studies, ACC revised the annual training program for the F-15C and will institute changes for other weapon systems as the MEC studies are completed. MECs provide operational inputs to simulator developers and wide area network providers that ensure the devices and the network provides information that is important to meeting warfighter training needs. MECs, combined with advanced simulation, will evolve today's training to better prepare warfighters to fight and win in tomorrow's complex battlespace.