Advancing Contracting Support in Large Scale Combat Operations: Insights from the Army Contracting Command's Rehearsal of Concepts (ROC) Drill

By LTC Ray Harris and MSG Payten RedfearnApril 2, 2024

The Army Contracting Command (ACC) recently conducted a Rehearsal of Concepts (ROC) Drill, an innovative exercise that aimed to test the concepts outlined in the ACC Supplement to ATP 4-71 while simul
ACC ROC Drill 2024 (Photo Credit: LTC Christina Wright) VIEW ORIGINAL

The Army Contracting Command (ACC) recently conducted a Rehearsal of Concepts (ROC) Drill, an innovative exercise that aimed to test the concepts outlined in the ACC Supplement to ATP 4-71 while simulating real-world deployment scenarios. The drill, which lasted from March 25 to March 29, brought together representatives from the entire command alongside several outside stakeholders.

The ROC drill comprised initial days dedicated to comprehensive training and overviews, setting the stage for subsequent immersive scenario-based exercises and fostering a shared operational understanding across the command. Participants engaged in a specially crafted scenario designed to emulate the complexities of large-scale combat operations (LSCO). From rapid deployment protocols to logistical intricacies, every facet of contracting support in LSCO underwent rigorous scrutiny.

Despite being the inaugural endeavor of its kind, the ROC drill yielded invaluable insights and achievements. Participants demonstrated adaptability, collaboration, and strategic thinking, highlighting the readiness of ACC and its partners to support LSCO, regardless of location or circumstance.

"The ROC drill showcased the collective capabilities of our contracting professionals to effectively support Large Scale Combat Operations. It underscored the importance of readiness and collaboration in ensuring mission success," remarked Brigadier General Christine Beeler, commanding general for ACC.

"The ROC drill exemplifies our commitment to excellence in contracting support. By identifying strengths and areas for enhancement, we are better positioned to meet the challenges of LSCO," emphasized Major General Douglas Lowrey, commanding general for the Mission and Installation Contracting Command.

"The success of the ROC drill demonstrates the power of collaboration among various stakeholders. By working together, we can effectively navigate the complexities of LSCO and provide seamless contracting support to the warfighter," added Michelle Sanner, director of overseas operations for ACC.

Additionally, Sanner praised the planning and execution of the ROC drill.

"The efforts of everyone in the ACC G-2/3/5/7 were instrumental in ensuring the success of the ROC drill. Their meticulous planning and execution set the stage for a highly effective exercise that has provided valuable insights for enhancing our contracting support capabilities in LSCO."

The success of the ROC drill represents a significant milestone in the evolution of contracting support within the military landscape. By stress-testing concepts and refining operational strategies, ACC is positioned to enhance its capabilities in facilitating critical support during LSCO. As the defense landscape continues to evolve, initiatives like the ROC drill ensure that ACC remains at the forefront of providing agile and effective contracting solutions to meet emerging challenges.