US Air Force Utilizes Real-Time Simulations to Build Skills

The US Air Force 908th Security Forces Squadron (SFS) conducted a “Shoot, Move, and Communicate” drill during the September Unit Training Assembly at Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama.

The purpose of the training was to simulate a combat situation in which defenders need to move from one position to another while providing cover fire and engaging targets. The main goal was to build upon the skills defenders already have and address any areas that need improvement so that 908 SFS members are ready to act in a real-world scenario.

“We want to build on what they already know while also providing them with the confidence to put that knowledge and their skills into real-time simulations,” said Staff Sgt. Taylor Clark, a Combat Arms Instructor with the 908 SFS. “The real value here is getting to put these individual and team skills into practice rather than just learning about them.”

Members of the 908 SFS worked in small squads, perfecting their movements and addressing threats in a dynamic firefight. Moving with their rifles and calling out targets and positions, the defenders worked as a team to navigate the training course and hone their individual skills and the overall effectiveness of the unit. Security Forces members also trained in dry-fire reload drills, honing their proficiency in efficiently manipulating their weapons from prone, standing and kneeling positions while wearing the helmet, vest and gloves they would be using out in a real-world tactical environment.

The training helps defenders work on their tactics both individually and as a team, said Master Sgt. Thomas Meadows, the noncommissioned officer in charge of training for the 908 SFS.

“The most valuable part of this was improving our members’ ability to employ their individual movements as well as techniques as a team to effectively eliminate threats,” said Meadows.