Is the Brigade Combat Team (Bct) Adequately Trained to Properly Employ Civil Affairs (CA) Teams in the Contemporary Environment When Such Capability I

This study examines whether the BCT is adequately trained to properly employ CA teams in the contemporary environment by examining past contingency operations, current Army doctrine, and CA doctrine. Additionally, this study obtains information through Army training centers, Army research centers and live subjects. The study concludes that most commanders, units, and staffs: 1) focus on lethal effects; 2) do not understand the mission of non-lethal units due to doctrine and training; 3) do not understand the limits and capabilities of non-lethal units. Additionally, the commander's attitude directly determines the level of non-lethal unit integration and CA personnel do not understand CA doctrine. The study recommends the following changes: The Army should update CA and Army doctrine to include: 1) COIN operations; 2) guidance on non-lethal unit integration and employment; 3) define CAT-B role when CAT-A teams are task organized within a gaining unit; 4) require CA limits and capabilities in the OPORD; 5) reexamine battle command and decisive point definitions. The Army should train leaders and CA personnel to learn CA limits and capabilities. Training should be conducted at all Army training and mobilization centers to incorporate CA personnel into the gaining unit's planning, execution, and post mission operations.