The Crucible - The JRTC Experience Podcast

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-eleventh episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by MAJ Marc Howle, the Brigade Senior Engineer / Protection Observer-Coach-Trainer, and MAJ David Pfaltzgraff, BDE S-3 Operations OCT, from Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are MAJ Steven Yates, the BDE S-6 Signal OCT from Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ) and SFC Daniel Pippin, the BN S-6 Signal NCOIC from the 1-509th IN (ABN) Opposing Force.   This episode of The Crucible centers on the challenges of command and control (C2) integration and the employment of enablers within brigade combat teams (BCTs) at JRTC. The discussion highlights recurring issues with overcomplicated signal plans, inadequate COMSEC readiness, and a persistent lack of basic communications skills across maneuver formations. Despite widespread fielding of advanced systems like ITN, many units arrive without validated PACE plans or shared understanding of how to communicate across formations and enabler teams. A key friction point is the failure to execute realistic COMEX and VALEX rehearsals, which often leads to failure in establishing a functioning network prior to movement into the box. When soldiers can’t log into CPCE or MAVEN or don’t know how to employ SATCOM or FM, the entire C2 enterprise falters before first contact.   The episode also stresses the importance of simplifying communications, cross-training non-signal personnel, and involving maneuver leaders in signal planning. A lack of distributed competence creates overreliance on limited 25-series personnel. The team praises aviation’s model of integrating comms training into pilot academics and encourages similar investments at the BCT level—where every Soldier using a radio must understand its function and limitations. Integration of enablers—particularly aviation, foreign partners, and multi-echelon elements like MEC teams—demands proactive coordination well before RSOI. The key takeaway: units that treat RSOI as part of the operations process, not just an administrative requirement, set the conditions for success. C2 must be validated with full mission threads—sensor-to-shooter, PED, and digital fires—before rolling into the box. Anything less risks operational paralysis in the first 48 hours.   Part of S13 “Hip Pocket Training” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-ninth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by MAJ Marc Howle, the Brigade Senior Engineer / Protection Observer-Coach-Trainer, and MAJ David Pfaltzgraff, BDE S-3 Operations OCT, from Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ) on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are CPT Joshua Ash, a Company Commander with 1-509th IN (ABN) (Opposing Force), MAJ Reed Ziegler, the BN S-3 Operations OCT in TF-1 (Infantry BN), SFC Walter Jinks, the Explosive Hazard Advisor OCT in the Fires Support TF, and MSG Brandon Roberts, the BDE Fires Support NCO OCT in BC2 (BCT HQ).   The Hip Pocket Training series is a short-form series focused on single-topic insights for the warfighter on the go. Quick, relevant, and ready when you are!   This episode of The Crucible focuses on the application of the military decision-making process (MDMP) in the defense, emphasizing how terrain, threat, and timing uniquely shape defensive operations during large-scale combat operations (LSCO). The hosts and guests walk through the interconnected steps of MDMP and engagement area development, noting that these are not mutually exclusive but instead must be integrated. The team emphasizes the importance of early terrain analysis during mission analysis, identifying enemy avenues of approach, and positioning most casualty-producing weapon systems. Fires planning is highlighted as both enemy- and terrain-informed, with best practices including placing targets in front of, on, and beyond the position to avoid over-saturating the battlespace and ensure rehearsable and executable fires.   Preparation emerges as a central theme, with observations that many units wait too long to plan and begin defense construction, leading to compressed timelines and poorly executed operations. The podcast outlines critical practices such as conducting a defense preparation rehearsal before line of departure (LD), synchronizing Class IV/V deliveries, employing engineer assets efficiently, and securing battle positions from UAS observation. The episode also explores friction points with fires rehearsals—especially the importance of digital tech rehearsals—and the lingering challenge of replacing lost cavalry reconnaissance capability with company- and battalion-level initiatives. Ultimately, the conversation drives home that successful defenses are those planned early, prepared thoroughly, rehearsed repeatedly, and executed with integrated fires, concealment, and security that match the enemy’s tempo and capability.   Part of S13 “Hip Pocket Training” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-second episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the former Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guests are the command team for 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne). COL Patrick “Pat” Nelson is the Commander of 7th SFG(A). CSM Adam Dunn is the Command Sergeant Major of 7th SFG(A). And CW5 Jose Villarreal is the Command Chief Warrant of 7th SFG(A).   The 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), known by its call-sign “Red Empire” and affectionately referred to as “La Familia,” is one of the most storied units within U.S. Army Special Operations Command. Headquartered at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, 7th SFG(A) has a rich legacy of conducting Unconventional Warfare, Foreign Internal Defense, and Counterinsurgency missions—particularly in Latin America, where it has maintained deep strategic partnerships for decades. The group played a key role in Cold War-era advisory missions, post-9/11 operations in Afghanistan and Iraq, and continues to remain at the forefront of global Special Operations Forces (SOF) engagements. Its motto, “Lo Que Sea, Cuando Sea, Donde Sea”—Spanish for “Anything, Anytime, Anywhere”—embodies its agile, mission-first ethos. Today, 7th SFG(A) is leading the way in integrating Special Forces capabilities into Large-Scale Combat Operations, leveraging its regional expertise, cultural fluency, and tactical excellence to shape the battlefield in support of joint force commanders.   This episode explores the evolving role of U.S. Army Special Forces—commonly known as Green Berets—in Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO). The conversation emphasizes how Special Forces must adapt from their traditional fast and flexible mindset to operate with greater precision, depth, and coordination within a conventional division fight. The leaders from 7th Special Forces Group discuss lessons learned from their groundbreaking Combat Training Center (CTC) rotation, which required ODAs to integrate with division-level planning and synchronize across time, space, and domains. The challenge of transitioning from unconventional warfare to supporting a Joint Forcible Entry and operating in support of division commanders is central, as Special Forces teams are often forward-deployed and must now shape the battlefield not just tactically, but operationally—anticipating information requirements and transitions before a fight begins.   Additionally, the episode identifies specific points of friction and critical learning moments. These include the challenge of synchronizing SOF timelines with conventional unit operations, the sustainment burdens in contested environments, and the complexity of operating in terrain saturated with sensors, drones, and electronic warfare. Best practices included conducting a full Leader Training Program (LTP) to understand the conventional planning process, refining staff-level battle drills and MDMP execution, and committing to humble, self-aware learning. The leaders also stress the importance of strategic relationships—both with conventional forces and international partners—as a long-term enabler of influence and access. In LSCO, they note, tactical decisions can have strategic consequences, and the margins for error are razor-thin. Success for Green Berets in future conflict will depend on their ability to master the basics, think in depth, and execute with discipline and precision, in lockstep with the broader joint force.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighty-third episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Task Force Executive Officer Observer-Coach-Trainer for Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ), LTC Westly “West” LaFitte on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are the command team for 2nd Battalion, Parachute Regiment of the British Army. LtCol Christopher Hitchins is the Commander for 2 PARA with his Regimental Sergeant Major, RSM Christopher Groves.   The 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment (2 PARA) is an airborne infantry unit of the British Army, renowned for its rapid deployment capabilities and combat effectiveness. The present day 2 PARA was formed in July 1948 from the 5th (Scottish) Parachute Battalion. However, they draw heritage from the 2nd Parachute Battalion which was formed in 1941 during WWII and amalgamated with the 3rd Para Bn in 1947. 2 PARA has participated in a wide-variety of significant military operations, including the D-Day landings, the Suez Crisis, anti-terror operations in Cyprus, stability operations in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, expeditionary operations in support of the Falklands War, and modern conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. The battalion’s motto, “Utrinque Paratus,” meaning “Ready for Anything,” reflects its readiness to deploy and fight anywhere in the world at a moment’s notice. Their call-sign, “Pegasus,” symbolizes its airborne heritage and connection to the mythological winged horse. Known for their courage, discipline, and professionalism, 2 PARA continues to serve as a core component of the British Army’s airborne forces, capable of executing complex operations in challenging environments. In this episode, we focus on themes surrounding multinational interoperability and the challenges of conducting operations in restrictive terrain. Our guests on their training experience at the Joint Readiness Training Center, emphasizing the complexities of transitioning from counterinsurgency (COIN) to large-scale combat operations. Topics discussed include adapting British planning processes, such as the combat estimate, to align with the U.S. military decision-making process. The conversation highlights the importance of effective communication between allied forces, the necessity of flexibility in dynamic combat environments, and the integration of new technologies like the ATAK C2 system to enhance situational awareness and ease the cognitive load on commanders. Specifically, this will allow various unified action partners, such as coalition forces or multinational allies to focus on a concept known as I3: Integration, Interoperability, and Interdependence, which emphasizes the collaboration and synchronization between UAPs to maximize combat effectiveness. Best practices for integrating enablers, such as engineers, artillery, and sustainment elements, into battle group operations are also addressed. The discussion reveals challenges posed by dense, restrictive terrain, including logistics management, water resupply, and maintaining battlefield discipline. Leaders underscore the critical role of small-unit leadership, adaptability, and mastery of the basics, such as camouflage, concealment, and fieldcraft, in achieving mission success. These insights offer valuable lessons for improving multinational coordination, overcoming friction in complex environments, and ensuring readiness for high-intensity LSCO. Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series. For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the sixtieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guests are the Commander of the Special Operations Training Detachment for US Army Special Operations Command, COL Nathanael Joslyn and one of their special operation forces mentor, Mr. Tom Vogel.   The Special Operations Training Detachment (SOTD) at the Joint Readiness Training Center is crucial for preparing special operations forces and conventional forces for integrated combat operations. Responsible for orchestrating training rotations at both JRTC and the National Training Center (NTC) at Fort Irwin, CA, the SOTD provides realistic, immersive training environments that replicate the complexities of modern warfare. By focusing on interdependence, integration, and interoperability (I3), the SOTD ensures that SOF and CF units can operate seamlessly together. Key aspects of their training include joint mission planning, execution of combined operations, and honing of specialized tactics and techniques, which are essential for mission success in diverse and challenging operational landscapes. The JRTC team’s call-sign is “Sierra” and NTC’s team is “Burro.”   In this episode we discuss special operations during large scale combat operations and the “SOF-CF I3” dynamic. Special operations forces-conventional forces interdependence, integration, and interoperability refers to the collaborative efforts between special operations forces and broader conventional forces, specifically the brigade combat team and any multi-national partners at JRTC and NTC. This framework aims to combine the unique capabilities of SOF, such as agility, precision, and specialized skills, with the larger-scale, sustained power and logistical support of conventional forces. The keys to success in SOF-CF I3 include clear communication, mutual understanding of capabilities and limitations, joint training exercises to build cohesion, and a unified command structure to ensure seamless coordination and effective mission execution.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the fifty-fifth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guest is Deputy Commanding General for Operations with 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne), BG Joseph Wortham.   1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) trains, mans, and equips Special Operations Forces Soldiers and units to conduct special operations worldwide in support of geographic combatant command, U.S. Ambassador and the Nation’s priorities. On order, 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) deploys a Special Operations Headquarters to conduct Mission Command of Special Operations, Conventional, Joint, and/or Coalition Forces anywhere in the world in support of geographic combatant command, U.S. Ambassador and the Nation’s priorities. Their motto is “De Oppresso Liber” or “To Free the Oppressed.”   In this episode we continue to discuss the employment of US Army special operations forces during large scale combat operations across multiple domains. We highlight the importance of conducting multi-echelon training events at the combat training centers to focus on transitioning from competition to crisis to conflict. 1st SFC(A) has over half of its assigned units deployed worldwide across over 80 countries at any given moment and wants to provide realistic, rigorous, and relevant training to their forces preparing to deploy. 1st SFC(A) has begun to pivot to start focusing on the higher echelon training events to better prepare their special operation task force and combined joint special operations task force headquarters to fight and win on the modern battlefield.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series.   Don’t forget to check-out 1st SFC(A)’s social media pages, their handles are ‘1st Special Forces Command (ABN)’ on Facebook, ‘1st Special Forces Command’ on X, and ‘1st Special Forces Command (A)’ on Instagram.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the forty-eighth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guests are part of a combat advisor team with 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade, SFC Joseph Escalante and SFC Shelby Kelley.   Security force assistance brigades (SFABs) are specialized US Army units with the core mission to conduct advise, support, liaise and assess operations with allied and partner nations. These combat advisors are highly trained and among the top tactical leaders in the Army. Their work strengthens our allies and partners capacities and capabilities while supporting America's security objectives and the combatant commanders' warfighting needs.   The 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade is regionally aligned with the African continent partnered with U.S. Africa Command. The SFAB is a strategic game changer for the United States in Africa, providing hand-selected advisors capable of establishing an enduring presence in key countries and operating in any environment—enabling them to develop enduring relationships from the tactical to the strategic level. Simply put, the SFAB provides the United States with a capability no adversary can match. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Saber” and the motto of “Everyone Fights” while they have the unofficial motto of “Ready for Crisis and Conflict.”   This episode explores the function of security force assistance brigades (SFABs) in large-scale combat operations across various domains. We delve into the challenges of operating as a small-unit that’s been given strategic objectives and the necessity that the team must function cohesively to achieve these critical objectives. Specifically, we address the integration of US forces and multinational partners to coordinate efforts against the enemy in large-scale combat operations. Notably, SFABs typically comprise 40% personnel with maneuver experience, while the remainder possess diverse capabilities, making SFABs highly versatile formations.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series.   Don’t forget to check-out SFAC’s social media pages, their handles are ‘ArmySFAC’ on Facebook, ‘armysfabs’ on Twitter / X, and ‘armysfabs’ on Instagram.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the forty-sixth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guest is a Foreign Exchange Officer serving as an Observer-Coach-Trainer Company Team Senior with Task Force 2 (Infantry Battalion), CPT Will Happel of the British Army. CPT Happel has since become a student Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and has since been promoted to the rank of Major.   In this episode we discuss how the British Ministry of Defense approached their expeditionary efforts during the Falklands War and how these same tenets would be applied to a multinational effort during large scale combat operations (LSCO).   The Falklands War, which took place in 1982, was viewed from the British perspective as a decisive conflict to reclaim the Falkland Islands from Argentine occupation. The UK considered the Argentine invasion of the islands a violation of sovereignty and responded with a military campaign. The British government, led by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, sought to protect the rights of the islanders and reestablish British control. The eventual success of the British forces in retaking the Falklands bolstered national pride but also brought attention to geopolitical complexities in the South Atlantic.   Specifically, we discuss that when viewed through the lens of a multinational expeditionary operation during LSCO, reveals the collaborative efforts of the British-led task force. Nations like the United States provided intelligence support, while others offered political and logistical assistance. The conflict underscored the challenges and benefits of coordinating diverse military capabilities in a joint effort to achieve strategic objectives in a remote and contested theater. Additionally, the Falklands War highlighted the importance of interoperability and communication between allied forces, as well as the necessity of rapid deployment and sustained logistical support over long distances. The multinational nature of the operation demonstrated the strength of collective security efforts in addressing regional conflicts and upholding international norms of sovereignty and self-determination.   Additionally, we look at some of the case studies conducted on this conflict: “No Picnic: 3 Commando Brigade in the South Atlantic” by MG Julian Thompson; “Goose Green: The Decisive Battle of the Falklands War – by the British Troops Who Fought It” by Nigel Ely; “Not Mentioned in Despatches: The History and Mythology of the Battle of Goose Green” by Spencer Fitz-Gibbon.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the fortieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guests are the Commander and Command Sergeant Major for 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade, COL Jason Clarke and CSM Paul Fedorisin. Security force assistance brigades (SFABs) are specialized US Army units with the core mission to conduct advise, support, liaise and assess operations with allied and partner nations. These combat advisors are highly trained and among the top tactical leaders in the Army. Their work strengthens our allies and partners capacities and capabilities while supporting America's security objectives and the combatant commanders' warfighting needs.   The 2nd Security Force Assistance Brigade is regionally aligned with the African continent partnered with U.S. Africa Command. The SFAB is a strategic game changer for the United States in Africa, providing hand-selected advisors capable of establishing an enduring presence in key countries and operating in any environment—enabling them to develop enduring relationships from the tactical to the strategic level. Simply put, the SFAB provides the United States with a capability no adversary can match. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Saber” and the motto of “Everyone Fights” while they have the unofficial motto of “Ready for Crisis and Conflict.”   In this episode they discuss the role of security force assistance brigades during large scale combat operations across multiple domains. We discuss the points of friction when transitioning from competition to crisis to conflict with our unified action partners.Specifically, we talk about integrating US forces and our multi-national partners into a synchronized effort against the enemy within large scale combat operations. It’s interesting to note that most SFABs consist of only 40% of the personnel having a maneuver background while the rest of the formation is all low-density, which makes the SFABs very diverse in their capabilities.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series. For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.  

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the fortieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guest is the Commanding General for Security Force Assistance Command, MG Donn Hill.   The Security Force Assistance Command (SFAC) is a division-level command element for the United States Army's new security force assistance brigades (SFAB). The SFAC draws its heritage from the Philippine Constabulary Advisory Mission immediately following the Spanish-American War and the Military Assistance Advisor Group throughout the Cold War. The SFAC’s core mission is security force assistance to conduct training, advising, assisting, enabling and accompanying operations with allied and partner nations. The SFAC builds and sustains readiness by manning, training, and validating regionally aligned SFA brigades for employment by combatant commands. They have the Hollywood call-sign of “Advisor” and the motto of “Victorious Together.”   In this episode they discuss the evolution of the U.S. Army’s combat advisor program and its role in the Army’s ability to conduct large scale combat operations across multiple domains. We discuss the employment of SFABs attached to our multinational partners to ensure interdependence, interoperability, and integration with U.S. forces in that region. While they are primarily focused on providing security force assistance to our multinational partners through establishing relationships, providing training, and advising throughout the competition and crisis continuum. During the conflict phase, SFABs primarily act as a liaison between U.S. forces and our multinational partners to synchronize and mass effects across multiple domains.   Part of S12 “The JIIMs of JRTC: Working with Our Unified Action Partners” series.   Don’t forget to check-out SFAC’s social media pages, their handles are ‘ArmySFAC’ on Facebook, ‘armysfabs’ on Twitter / X, and ‘armysfabs’ on Instagram.     For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-one episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Senior Intelligence Observer-Coach-Trainer for the Intelligence Task Force, COL Cory Reiter on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guest is the senior military analyst at the China Desk within the Foreign Military Studies Office at Ft. Leavenworth, KS, Mr. Peter Wood You can access Mr. Wood’s intro to China reference booklet at: https://tr.ee/ukc6JINPfn  The Foreign Military Studies Office (FMSO), located at the U.S. Army’s Combined Arms Center at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, is a key research organization dedicated to analyzing foreign military trends, doctrine, and operational concepts to inform U.S. military understanding and readiness. Within FMSO, the China Desk plays a crucial role by providing focused, open-source research on the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Chinese Communist Party (CCP) military strategies, and China’s evolving approaches to multi-domain operations. The China Desk produces analytical reports, threat assessments, and scholarly publications that help inform U.S. Army and joint force planners about Chinese doctrine, modernization efforts, and lessons learned from regional and global conflicts. By maintaining deep subject matter expertise, the China Desk equips military leaders and planners with the insights needed to better prepare for competition and potential conflict with a sophisticated and adaptive peer adversary.   This podcast episode provides a detailed introduction to China’s threat tactics, offering U.S. military leaders and planners a foundational understanding of how the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) approach modern warfare. The conversation highlights that China is assessed as the United States’ primary pacing threat—not simply because of a single capability, but because of the integrated strength of its modernization efforts, personnel, training, and cross-domain investments. The episode explores how China blends military and civilian power through its concept of “military-civil fusion,” builds operational depth through advanced space, cyber, and electronic warfare capabilities, and sharpens its military edge through sophisticated training programs, including its own combat training centers. The discussion also addresses the widespread misunderstanding in U.S. circles that China’s economic interdependence with the West deters it from military action, underscoring that China continues to develop systems and posture itself for protracted conflict, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.   Additionally, the episode explores China’s multi-domain approach to warfare, combining kinetic capabilities with influence operations, psychological warfare, legal maneuvers, and advanced technology integration. The discussion explains how China has invested in artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, uncrewed systems, and resilient satellite communications to build decision advantage and disrupt U.S. capabilities. One critical takeaway is that the PLA is a learning organization—adapting through lessons from other global conflicts and continuously refining its doctrine and training. Best practices suggested for U.S. leaders include regularly incorporating China-based threat injects into training exercises, familiarizing staffs with Chinese operational concepts, and leveraging available resources such as the TRADOC G-2 China Landing Zone and red-team scenario materials. The episode closes by encouraging listeners to approach the China threat with intellectual rigor and humility, recognizing that the competition space is dynamic and requires constant adaptation and informed preparation.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series. Again you can access Mr. Wood’s intro to China reference booklet at: https://tr.ee/ukc6JINPfn  For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the forty-sixth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by LTC Mason Thornal, the Battalion Commander of 1-509th IN (OPFOR) on behalf of the Commander of Operations Group. Today’s guests are members of Geronimo’s infamous Spectre Team, their information warfare team. MAJ Michael Wright, the Info War Cell Chief or officer-in-charge; CPT James Gardiner, the Deputy Chief and their space operations expert; and CW2 Christian Lehr, their electronic warfare expert.   1-509th IN BN is the opposing forces unit for the Joint Readiness Training Center, the infamous “Geronimo.” The information warfare cell focuses on leveraging information to achieve strategic objectives, often within military or intelligence operations. This includes activities such as cyber operations, psychological operations, and the dissemination of propaganda to influence, disrupt, or deceive adversaries. The cell analyzes and exploits data to gain a tactical advantage, protect critical information, and undermine enemy capabilities. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in countering misinformation and ensuring the integrity of its own communications and operations.   In this episode we focus on the employment of information warfare across multiple domains and various innovations that are helping transform our forces while in contact. We define innovation as our ability to turn ideas into valued outcomes and solutions with the goal of staying ahead of determined, and increasingly capable enemies on the modern battlefield. Specifically, we discuss the Joint Readiness Training Center’s new Innovations Initiative Program (I2P) to rapidly share the emerging trends and best practices for the employment of developing technologies into unit systems and processes through a controlled learning environment that is the crucible of the JRTC experience. The I2P includes JRTC’s budding innovations laboratory, which includes multiple 3D printers, drone pilot simulators, and other tools of the OPFOR trade.   Here’s why your team should consider volunteering to partner with JRTC’s I2P: JRTC offers a comprehensive operational environment that is conducive to trying innovative solutions to realistic tactical problem sets. Units are able to plan, execute, assess, and refine at operational speed against determined opponents. Real-time OPFOR & OCT feedback from professionals that facilitate nine or more rotations per year on average. Access to the innovations lab that offers the equipment, material, and most importantly the space to work.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the thirty-ninth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Command Sergeant Major of Ops Group (CSMOG), CSM Michael Hall. Today’s guest is the commander of 1st Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment, LTC Mason Thornal, also known as Geronimo 06.   1-509th IN is the opposing forces unit for the Joint Readiness Training Center, the infamous “Geronimo,” the most hated unit in the Army. Geronimo’s primary mission is to help units see their selves clearly in order to rectify any deficiencies through rigorous, realistic, and relevant training with an aggressive opposing force (OPFOR).   In this episode they discuss Geronimo’s primary mission: helping units see their selves clearly in order to rectify any deficiencies through rigorous, realistic, and relevant training with an aggressive OPFOR. Specifically, we look at not only how Geronimo builds warfighters within its own organization but how it helps units build warfighters within their own organizations. We also look at how a unit’s noncommissioned officers enable commanders and directly impact a unit’s overall mission.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the twenty-eighth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guests are the cyberspace electromagnetic activities (CEMA) cell’s officer-in-charge (OIC), for JRTC’s Plans / Exercise Maneuver Control, MAJ Luke Plante (Zulu 88) and one of JRTC’s opposing force’s senior members of their information warfare cell for 1st Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment, CW2 Christian Lehr.   1-509th IN BN is the opposing forces unit for the Joint Readiness Training Center, the infamous “Geronimo.” The information warfare cell coordinates and executes the collection of tactical information, assurances that their information is valid, spreading of propaganda or disinformation to demoralize or manipulate the rotational training unit and the replicated civilian population, undermining the quality of the RTU's information, and denial of information-collection opportunities to the RTU as well as impede operations within the electromagnetic spectrum. Information warfare is closely linked to electronic warfare, psychological warfare, and cyberwarfare. EW is designed to deny the RTU the advantage of—and ensure friendly unimpeded access to—the EM spectrum. Psychological warfare that focuses on influencing the opinions, emotions, attitudes, and behavior of the RTU. Cyberwarfare attacks computers, software, and command & control systems of the RTU, multinational forces, and replicated civilian population.   Cyberspace electromagnetic activities (CEMA) is the process of planning, integrating, and synchronizing cyberspace operations and electromagnetic warfare in support of unified land operations (ADP 3-0). By integrating and synchronizing cyberspace operations and EW, the RTU gain an information advantage across multiple domains and lines of operations while disrupting the OPFOR’s efforts across multiple domains. The CEMA Cell for P/EMC acts as the higher headquarters for the RTUs’ CEMA elements and/or efforts.   In this episode we discuss how brigade combat teams prepare their battalions and companies for large scale combat operations across multiple domains through the employment CEMA and information warfare. Geronimo not only has the “home-field” advantage but also the competitive advantage of innovation by utilizing unique and tailored solutions using emerging technologies to answer various tactical problems encountered.   A reoccurring theme is the dismantling of the idea of a short-cut to unit cohesion and effectiveness. Instead, modern formations must focus on the fundamentals and being able to execute them violently across multiple domains. For staff’s these means getting “sets & reps” of the going through the entirety of mission planning and execution.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please checkout our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the twentieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guest is the S-2 intelligence officer for 1st Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment, CPT Benjamin Branower.     1-509th IN BN is the opposing forces unit for the Joint Readiness Training Center, the infamous “Geronimo.” Geronimo’s primary mission is to help units see their selves clearly in order to rectify any deficiencies through rigorous, realistic, and relevant training with an aggressive opposing force (OPFOR). Besides functioning as a traditional S-2, CPT Branower also coordinates for the employment of Geronimo’s Special Purpose Forces, electromagnetic /cyber warfare team, and information warfare cell.   In this episode we discuss means in which Geronimo regularly prepares to engage each brigade combat team through the analytical process of searching for vulnerabilities and then exploiting said vulnerabilities, commonly called “red teaming.” What is repeatedly emphasized is that the Geronimo staff isn’t given any “insider” knowledge to each training rotation but instead conducts traditional Army staff work, such as information preparation of the battlefield, followed by aggressive, high-tempo operations against BCTs.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please checkout our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the nineteenth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the former Deputy Commander of Ops Group and retired, COL Edward Twaddell III, on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guests are Dr. Lester Grau and Mr. Charles “Chuck” Bartles from the renowned Foreign Military Studies Office at Ft Leavenworth, Kansas.   The mission of the Foreign Military Studies Office is to research and present understudied and unconsidered foreign perspectives in order to better understand the operational environment. Dr. Lester Grau is a senior analyst and the Research Director for the FMSO. He is considered a subject matter expert on tactical, operational and geopolitical subjects involving Russia. Chuck Bartles is a junior analyst and Russian linguist at the FMSO. His specific research areas include Russian and Central Asian military force structure, modernization, tactics, officer and enlisted professional development, and security assistance programs.   While this episode was filmed mere weeks prior to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the information presented here isn’t based on the observations and trends analysis from that conflict. Instead the assessment was largely formed from Russia’s 2014 annexation of the Crimean Peninsula, their activity in Eastern Ukraine prior to the 2022 conflict, the Cold War-esque saber rattling regarding the Baltics, and their combat operations in support of Syria. We have a future episode where Dr. Grau and Mr. Bartles address some of the lessons learned from the most recent Russo-Ukrainian Conflict.   In this episode we discuss he modern Russian military force structure as it applies to large scale combat operations. The discussion centers around the Russian overall employment methodology, general overview of the assets available at echelon to the tactical ground force commander, and their modernization program. Some of the assets addressed in this episode are their electronic and cyber warfare and communications capabilities as well as armored-mechanized teams, reconnaissance, and indirect fire formations. One fact that is repeatedly emphasized is that the Russian armed forces focus more on commander centric “battle drills” than a military decision making process focused on warfighting functions and maneuver enables fires instead of the Western model of fires enables maneuver.   For a more in depth look at the information covered, please check-out their book, The Russian Way of War, hosted by Army University Press.   Part of S11 “Conversations with the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please checkout our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.

The JRTC is pleased to present the second episode to air on ‘The Crucible.'  Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. Today’s guest, LTC Brendan Fitzgerald, is the commander of 1st Battalion (Airborne), 509th Infantry Regiment, the infamous “Geronimo.” In this episode they discuss Geronimo’s primary mission as well as some of the common myths surrounding Geronimo.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the ninetieth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Task Force Senior for the BDE Command & Control (BCT HQ), LTC Timothy Price on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are three seasoned Observer-Coach-Trainers across the intelligence warfighting function at the JRTC. LTC Cory Reiter is the TF Senior of the Intelligence Task Force and senior OCT for the brigade intelligence staff section as well as any division echelon intelligence assets at the JRTC. He has over fourteen rotations as a TF Senior. MAJ Kassie Thompson mentors the brigade S-2 intelligence officer as part of the BDE Command & Control (BCT HQ) TF. CW2 Jon Delima is the BDE All-Source Analyst OCT for the BDE Command & Control (BCT HQ) TF.   In this episode, we delve into the critical role of military intelligence in large-scale combat operations (LSCO) and how the intelligence warfighting function supports commanders in decision-making. The discussion emphasizes the importance of intelligence support across four key tasks: force generation, situational awareness, targeting, and information collection. The shift in Army force structure, particularly the removal of brigade-level military intelligence companies and the redistribution of assets to division-level intelligence organizations, is explored in depth. This change presents new challenges for brigade and battalion S2 sections, forcing them to adapt to a leaner structure while maintaining effective intelligence processes. Additionally, we highlight the need for improved synchronization between intelligence and maneuver elements to ensure accurate assessments of enemy courses of action, targeting priorities, and operational planning. The conversation also addresses the importance of integrating intelligence efforts within the broader staff functions, ensuring that the S2 section does not operate in isolation but instead collaborates closely with fires, operations, and sustainment elements. The necessity of refining standard operating procedures (SOPs) and implementing rigorous home-station training for intelligence personnel is emphasized as a way to mitigate the impact of staff turnover and maintain continuity in planning processes. The episode stresses the significance of commander-to-intelligence officer relationships, ensuring that intelligence is presented in a way that informs and influences decision-making effectively. The discussion concludes with a focus on the evolving battlefield, the integration of intelligence assets from higher echelons, and the importance of timely, actionable intelligence in shaping battlefield success in LSCO.   Part of S10 “Out-Thinking the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we’d like to thank our guests for participating. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the eighteenth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by a former Senior Intelligence Trainer, COL John Ives, on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. This is part one of a two part series with COL John Ives.   In this episode we discuss the best practices for the intelligence warfighting function as with most of our discussions it focuses on brilliance in the basics. The best practices for the intel WfF within a BCT formation are as follows: Led by an S2 with a clear understanding of the 4-core competencies (Synchronization; Operations; PED; Analysis) and the intelligence process: articulates, trains, and stresses the steps and output of IPB. Rehearse, exercise, and maintain intelligence systems and team development at home-station; maximizes training time and incorporates intel systems in all activities. Establish and maintain the intelligence architecture: plan, validate, and rehearse by phase, collector, and capability. Conduct rehearsals and describe the intelligence cycle for each named area of interest (NAI) or high payoff target (HPT); emphasizing PED directly impacts the sensor-to-shooter integration. Resources and train the intel collection management team to leverage Echelons Above Brigade (EAB) and organic collection, coordinate PED (processing, exploitation, and dissemination) capacity, and integrate into the operations planning process. Plan and coordinate organic collection capabilities (recon, human intel collection teams, signals intel collection teams, and unmanned aerial systems platoon) including security, communications, and command support relationships. Maintain an intelligence common operational picture (COP) in both analog and digital form and actively disseminate fighting products, including battle damage assessment (BDA) charts and intelligence collection and synchronization matrix (ICSM). Operationalize RSOI (reception, staging, onward movement, and integration) including pack-out at home-station to set conditions for synchronization, PED, and intelligence operations. Specifically addressed in this episode are the core intel competencies, conducting intel preparation of the battlefield, and home-station training good habits.   Part of S10 “Out-Thinking the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please checkout our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the seventeenth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by the Commander of Ops Group (COG), COL Matthew Hardman. We have a special treat for our audience, today’s guest is retired US Army COL John Antal. The event was designed to encourage discourse and offer insights of the evolution of modern warfare and its impacts on the battlefield of tomorrow to future Leaders while promoting the Joint Readiness Training Center as a whole.   COL John Antal is a renowned author, military historian, and foreign affairs subject matter expert. He served 30 years in the US Army, where he led formations from platoon level through regiment and served on corps and multinational staffs. He is the author of hundreds of articles on military affairs and leadership subjects as well as having authored fourteen books, including his most recent book: '7 Seconds to Die: A Military Analysis of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War and the Future of Warfighting.'   Faculty and team members from across the US Army’s Combat Training Centers were able to participate in this briefing as it was part of the CTC Commander’s Conference at the Combined Arms Center in the Summer of 2022.   In this episode they discuss the evolution of technology and the impact it has had on modern warfare as well as the training provided to brigade combat teams in preparation for conducting large scale combat operations across multiple domains. The material referenced comes from multiple recent or on-going conflicts, including but not limited to the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War and the Russo-Ukrainian Conflict. Specifically addressed are the so-called battlefield disruptors of modern war, which are the: Transparency of the battlefield. First strike advantage, often maintained by the opposition. Accelerating of the operations tempo. Fury & effectiveness of top attack. Unmanned to fully autonomous systems. From “kill-chain” to “kill-web” constructs. Visualization of the battlespace across all-domains. One of the repeatedly emphasized methods for mitigating these disruptors was through the technique of “masking,” which was loosely defined as the full-spectrum, multi-domain effort to deceive enemy sensors and disrupt enemy targeting.   Part of S10 “Out-Thinking the Enemy” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please checkout our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.