A Generalized Combat Lifecycle Framework for Marksmanship Training and Assessment of Warfighter Readiness

Revelations in neuroscience and human performance optimization acknowledge the strong interplay of cognitive, physical and emotional functions as part of overall performance in both sports and in combat. Within the dynamic environment that is combat, the modern warfighter is required to apply fundamental and technical skills that span multiple levels of physical exertion and cognition concurrently. Furthermore, the modern warfighter must also effectively self-regulate emotional responses inherent to threat of physical harm while effectively task transitioning across these levels. As such, training for and assessments of combat readiness cannot consider individual attributes in isolation, but must pursue a comprehensive approach that is relevant to the requirements of the combat environment. The framework consists of multiple phases representing the progression of a combat event, from patrol/infiltration to initial contact to prosecution to reconsolidation. The phases are comprised of logical memory tests, aerobic tests, sustained power tests, and simulated assessments measuring both tactical acumen, threat identification, threat prioritization, predictive modeling, and other cognitive attributes critical to performance in combat. These tests are chronologically arrayed in a manner representative of the task transitions required by the majority of combat events. Utilizing this realistic framework for training and the resultant data collection enables leaders to acquire a comprehensive model of combat readiness using pillars of performance in an integrated fashion. This framework additionally provides a laboratory for leaders to test the impact of new training curriculum, approaches, and equipment in a contextually relevant manner. Beyond training, given the concern with traumatic brain injury, PTSD, and heavy-metal exposure in a combat environment, this framework provides an opportunity to baseline and measure the impact on integrated physical and cognitive performance over a warfighter’s career.