Reshaping the US Army: Brigade Combat Team Optimization

I n 2003, the United States Army began one of the most extensive transformations in recent history by transitioning from a division-centric to a brigade combat team (BCT)-centric force. In 2010, with lengthy counterinsurgency campaigns in Iraq and Afghanistan winding down, the US Army needed to assess the impact of that transformation on its ability to conduct future campaigns. Specifically, the US Army needed to determine the ability of BCT mixes and designs to meet projected operational demands. The US Army Training and Doctrine Command Analysis Center was tasked to conduct this study. In this article, we discuss the optimization model that we developed to assess the best force mix to meet those demands. The model takes into account the missions that BCTs must accomplish, the Army Force Generation process, and active and reserve components, as well as other relevant factors. Along with other studies, this study informed the Army’s Force Modernization Review/Program Objective Memorandum 13-17, and Total Army Analysis 14-18.