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Ensuring capabilities are being maximized
The M27 infantry automatic rifle (1AR) is close to being fully fielded to all infantry battalions. With 2 years of combat-tested experience, we must look at our training of the automatic rifleman to ensure his capabilities with the M27 are maximized on the battlefield. This new weapons system offers unique capabilities when compared to its predecessor, the M249 light machinegun. Given that the M27 is new and far different from the M249, there are certain training challenges t hat must be overcome so that we as an infantry community can maximize its true potential. Over the past year, we have trained more than 300 student lieutenants at Infantry Officer Course (IOC) on M27 employment and the skills required of the automatic rifleman. During this time, multiple training challenges have been identified and training techniques developed. This article is a discussion of these challenges and techniques, and includes training recommendations to ensure that the M27 fulfills its potential as the premier infantry squad weapon.
Distinguishing the M27 From the M249
The first challenge is for our automatic riflemen to understand the M27 as a different capability than the M249. The reasoning is simple: The two weapons have different benefits and disadvantages that must be trained to accordingly. Although the M27 replaced the M249 and docs provide multiple similar capabilities for each fire team, its overall employment is anything but the same. The M249 is, by definition, a light machinegun, and therefore an excellent weapon when a high volume of sustained fire is required. Conversely, the M27 is better-suited for providing accurate fires, achieving fire superiority, and, most importantly, closing in the assault. As a unit ages and new Marines join the ranks, the problem of distinguishing the two capabilities may sort itself out as M249 experience atrophies. However, this potential reality also represents a problem: The capabilities and advantages of the M249 arc something we cannot lose at the platoon level. We need leadership that recognizes this fact so that platoons are trained and ready to use the M249 when missions require the advantage of a light machinegun. Ultimately, though, training must reflect the differences between the weapons. Specific to the M27, it is critical that we do not train...