Army getting serious about their 11B series
It looks like Big Green is pumping up training not only in Basic (marksmanship training is moving from 500-rounds/83 hours to 600 rounds/92 hours to include the use of co-witnessed iron sights and the Aimpoint M2/M68 close combat optic) but also in One-Station Unit Training for Infantry as well.
In 2019, the U.S. Army will extend OSUT at Benning for Infantry Soldiers from 14 weeks (a standard they have had since 1974) to a whopping 22 weeks.
Changes to the program are meant to increase Soldier readiness, making them more lethal and proficient before they depart for their first duty assignment, according to the Infantry School commandant, Col. Townley R. Hedrick.
Big changes include a full 40-hours for combat lifesaving, a week of land nav (up from a day), use of the ACOG and PSQ-20 NVG to include day/night quals, 40 hours of combatives (up from 22), more reaction drills, more MOUT, a 16-mile road march (up from 12), more crew-served weapon time, lots more maneuver training in small units among other things.
In short, the Army is getting closer to the model the Brits have used for generations. At Catterick, all Tommies run a 26-week course (28 weeks for the Paras or Guards).
I can only think that this is only a good thing. I am especially struck by the increased combat life saving time. I know that even now, the loss of life in the field is at an all time low, due to the much improved life saving skills not only of the medical teams, but also to the fighting force themselves and their own response to injuries in the field. More training can only improve the outcomes of injuries.
I have to say, that I am embarrassed that I have only now discovered your blog. I often go to different blogs, and comment on several of them, but I only now found my way here, and I am very glad that I did. You have such a broad spectrum of knowledge that I will be weeks trying to catch up with your past posts.
I will try to avoid asking stupid questions, until I at least get through some of your posts. Thanks for what looks to be a very interesting and well written blog, and have a great weekend.