Platoon leaders are overcome by all that's expected of them. To attack these problems, FDD leaders across all branches attend about 30 days' worth of familiarization on how to operate with digital C2 systems. The units need qualified NCOs on day one of assignment. The unit is caught in the necessity of satisfying operational and training requirements with the same equipment. Network simulation or stimulation is needed to facilitate sustainment training without having to deploy actual systems.
Retention Retaining digitally trained soldiers is also one of their issues.
Soldiers leave the Army for many reasons, but with 124 th Signal Battalion, it's principally because of operational tempo, job stress and the lure of higher pay. Great demands are placed on young soldiers who are barely acclimated to Army life. When they see the pace of operation and the level they're expected to perform at, their retention often becomes a challenge. So do civilian employers and contractors who willingly pay many more times than a soldier's salary for their expertise. Commanders are clamoring for them, and it seems you can't write a new system-training plan without the 74B being included.