What are field training exercises designed to assess?

Field training exercises are primarily designed to assess soldiers' application of skills in realistic environments. These exercises simulate the conditions and challenges soldiers may face in actual combat situations, allowing them to demonstrate how well they can implement their training under pressure and in the field. Soldiers are evaluated on their ability to utilize individual and collective skills, make decisions, and effectively execute tactics in a setting that closely resembles real operational scenarios.

This hands-on assessment helps commanders identify strengths and weaknesses in soldiers' performance and readiness, ensuring they are adequately prepared for real-world missions. The focus is not just on theoretical knowledge but on practical application, making these exercises a crucial element of military training.

While fitness levels, the ability to follow orders, and team bonding can be components of military life and training, they do not capture the primary objective of field training exercises, which is to evaluate how soldiers apply their training effectively in dynamic and challenging environments.