From 24 to 27 March, military and civilian leaders from the 7th Army Training Command, U.S. Army Europe and Africa, U.S. European Command, and NATO gathered at JMRC for a Modernisation and Optimisation Forum. The event focused on aligning training resources with strategic objectives, such as increasing readiness, lethality, and warfighting capabilities.
Brigadier General Steve Carpenter, Commanding General of the 7th Army Training Command, opened the forum by encouraging attendees to think boldly and adaptively. “We need to transform the way we train, by aligning resources to stimulate the training environment at low cost,” he said. “It’s essential we implement lessons learned from the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.”
Forum participants examined training priorities for both assigned and rotational U.S. forces, assessing current limitations and future requirements. They reviewed how shifts in national policies and budgets are influencing modernisation strategies and resourcing decisions.
Much of the discussion centred around adapting training to the realities of modern warfare, including drone usage and electromagnetic spectrum operations. Recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, have demonstrated the critical role of small, low-cost drones and the urgent need to both employ and counter them effectively.
To address these developments, participants proposed enhancing the JMRC’s opposing force capabilities to mirror contemporary battlefield conditions. This includes equipping training units with more drones, electronic warfare tools, and specialised personnel to challenge rotating units more realistically.
Implementing such upgrades will require navigating a range of issues including safety protocols, spectrum regulations in Germany, and budgetary constraints. The goal is to simulate the multiple dilemmas soldiers face in real conflict zones while ensuring compliance with international rules.
Brig. Gen. Carpenter emphasised the broader importance of these changes, stating, “As we navigate this time of enormous changes, we need to optimise training toward establishing global deterrence.” The modernisation efforts reflect the Army’s intent to stay ahead of evolving tactics and threats.
The JMRC’s transformation comes at a time when international defence strategies are being shaped by geopolitical developments and fiscal adjustments. The U.S. Army continues to adapt its European training posture to maintain readiness and contribute effectively to NATO’s collective security.
