Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal and Army Transformation: Is Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal Prepared to Support Forces in the Emerging Environment

摘要

The Army is undergoing transformation to an effects-based force capable of functioning in an emerging operating environment characterized by a thinking, flexible enemy that will use weapons of mass destruction (WMD) as an anti-access capability to slow our response. This represents a paradigm shift from the Cold War Soviet-model aggressor used to train forces for decades. This study used qualitative research methods to determine if Army Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) individual and unit tactical training is sufficient to support forces in the emerging operating environment. To function successfully on the battlefields envisioned in the future, EOD forces must possess the capabilities to arrive at the point of support through multiple means, contribute to the supported organizations conduct of defensive actions, provide limited medical aid until other specialists can arrive, and maintain continuous communications with the chain of command. To prepare for the future, EOD must develop a systemic solution to developing individual and unit tactical skills.