Innovating Command and Control Training Using Virtualization Technologies

摘要

Special Operations Command Joint Forces Command (SOCJFCOM) trains joint force commanders and their staffs to integrate conventional, multinational, and special operations forces in planning and execution, with a particular focus on command and control (C2). The command conducts strictly face-to-face staff events. The six geographic combatant command training audiences are each allotted a 40-hour event per year due to fiscal and manpower constraints. This level of training is insufficient to maintain optimum staff performance levels. However, recent advances in virtual world technologies may be used to improve the situation. SOCJFCOM collaborated with Joint Knowledge Online to field training events using the Small Group Scenario Trainer. Small staffs collaborate in various C2 configurations to develop courses of actions after receiving global and role-specific scenario triggers. This new capability allows the command to deliver and observe live, distributed C2 training and rehearsal events. It increases customer contact hours and reinforces skills learned in traditional face-to-face training courses without additional travel costs. SOCJFCOM can observe the event and provide post-event feedback from its headquarters location. Training audiences like this distance learning methodology because it enhances their knowledge of C2 doctrine, increases rehearsal opportunities for operations, and maintains optimum staff performance levels.