The Multinational Corps Northeast (MNC NE) sent 19 Subject Matter Experts (SME) to the Joint Warfare Centre in Stavanger, Norway. The SMEs supported the Allied Rapid Reaction Corps (ARRC) training for the International Security Assistance Force Training Exercise 10/02 (ISAF TE 10/02) held from 31 October to 12 November 2010.
These SMEs were a selected group of recently redeployed officers and non-commissioned officers of various specialties (Logistics, Public Affairs, Engineers, Communications, and many others specialties) to support this important exercise. The primary role of the SMEs was to set the conditions for the preparation and success of the ISAF TE 10/02 and train the ARRC personnel on procedures and duties for their upcoming ISAF Rotation.
During the exercise the SMEs were able to share their experience, knowledge, teach the ARRC on ISAF Joint Command (IJC) procedures, and explain the IJC document handling process used to develop staff products. In addition, the SMEs developed real world scenarios, which were used to evaluate the ARRC. All the preparation and the SME contribution were aimed at training the ARRC on IJC procedures and functions.
The Mission Rehearsal Exercise simulated the ISAF/IJC working environment using real world incidents from July and August 2010. Automated systems and technology currently in use in theatre were used to replicate the working environment. The exercise also incorporated the Individual Augmentees (IAs) and exposed them to IJC/ISAF procedures and practices. The exercise allowed the SMEs to provide their expertise and provide some recommendations to the ARRC before they begin their deployment to Afghanistan and allowed the ARRC to continue building their team, integrate their IAs, build confidence, and fine tune their skills. At the end the SMEs were able to provide valuable information to the training audience and were an important part of ISAF TE 10/02 success.
