Time and Resources Required for Postmobilization Training of AC/ARNG Integrated Heavy Divisions

This report analyzes the postmobilization training process for integrated divisions composed of elements of the ARNG and the Active Component. It considers two of three concepts the Army proposed. One organized three enhanced separate ARNG brigades in such a way that they could deploy as a standard Army of Excellence division or as three separate brigades. Under the second concept, the unit could deploy only as a standard division. The study analyzed three ways of carrying out the postmobilization training: (1) training three brigade combat teams in parallel at three sites, (2) conducting all brigade combat team and battalion task force maneuver training at Fort Irwin, and (2) operating two division sites. The analysis concludes that it would take from 132 to 239 days to produce the first division and from 217 to 239 days to produce the second. In addition, between 300 and 400 additional trainers are required beyond what are already allocated for the pre- and postmobilization training of the enhanced heavy brigades. The study assesses the three options from three perspectives: force generation, training quality, and resources. Any of the three approaches produce trained divisions, but each poses different risks and tradeoffs.