STANAG 6001 Level 3 – Speaking Task: Briefing on New Training Elements for Soldiers Deployed on Missions
Examination Task
Due to changing warfare, it has been decided that certain elements should be added to the training for soldiers going on missions. The new elements will be introduced gradually. Give a briefing on two possibilities, describing their advantages and disadvantages. Recommend the one that should be implemented first and justify your choice.
- asymmetrical warfare
- acquiring intelligence
- other
Sample Briefing
Good morning, ladies and gentlemen.
First of all, thank you for attending this briefing. My name is Captain Rose and I am responsible for coordinating training programmes in our unit.
Due to the changing nature of modern warfare, it has been decided that new elements should be introduced into the training programme for soldiers preparing for overseas missions. However, because of limited training time and resources, these elements will have to be implemented gradually.
I have been tasked with presenting two possible training areas that could be introduced first. In this briefing, I will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of training in asymmetrical warfare and acquiring intelligence, and finally I will recommend which element should be implemented first.
Let me start with the first option, which is training in asymmetrical warfare.
This solution offers several advantages.
Firstly, modern conflicts increasingly involve irregular forces such as insurgents or terrorist groups rather than conventional armies. Such conflicts often involve threats such as terrorism, suicide attacks, UAVs, improvised explosive devices, and other activities carried out by non-state actors. Therefore, soldiers must be prepared to operate in complex environments where the enemy uses unconventional tactics.
Secondly, such training would improve soldiers’ ability to assess complex security situations and make effective decisions in unpredictable operational environments.
However, there are also some disadvantages.
To begin with, asymmetrical warfare training is usually complex and requires specialised instructors as well as appropriate training facilities.
Another drawback is that this type of training can be time-consuming, which may limit the time available for other essential training activities.
I will now move on to the second option, which is training in acquiring intelligence.
One major advantage of this solution is that good intelligence is essential for mission success. Soldiers who are trained to collect and report information about the operational environment can significantly improve situational awareness for their commanders.
Secondly, such skills can help identify potential threats at an early stage, which may prevent attacks and increase the overall safety of the unit.
On the other hand, there are also some disadvantages.
Firstly, not all soldiers in our unit are directly involved in intelligence activities, so some of the training might be less relevant for certain personnel.
Secondly, some aspects of intelligence training are highly specialised, meaning that not all personnel can fully benefit from it.
To sum up, both training elements are important and useful. Nevertheless, I would recommend introducing training in asymmetrical warfare first. In my opinion, being prepared for unconventional threats and irregular tactics is crucial for operational effectiveness and can significantly enhance the safety of our personnel. Once this foundation is established, training in acquiring intelligence could be implemented as the next step.
This brings me to the end of my briefing.
If you have any questions, I will be happy to answer them.
Thank you for your attention.
Photo: A stone entrance sign © U.S. Army Fort Huachuca, Arizona