Author: Kolman A. Gabel

Publisher:

Published: 1980

Total Pages: 57

ISBN-13:

This report is an overview of technical training methods currently used in the Soviet Ground Forces. Although the emphasis is on training for maintenance and repair, much of what is presented is applicable to all types of technical training. The report is based on recurring themes and explanations of techniques revealed through a review of open source Soviet military journals. The role of the Communist Party in the training process, socialist competition and obligations, the use of innovators, inventors and rationalizers, as well as the importance placed on technological awareness are discussed. Driver training, seasonal servicing, equipment transfer, storage procedures, motor pool days, and the importance of officer responsibilities are included. Training methodologies unique to the communist system are examined in light of the current military-technical environment. The paper concludes that the Soviets have a workable and relatively effective system for peacetime maintenance training which overcomes the severe handicap of a two year conscript army serving without experienced NCO's and career enlisted men. How the system would work in wartime when line units had no time to train is questionable. (Author).