You have to
separate a
Command/Unit out from
Equipment they are
two distinct separate categories where the terms
IOC = Initial Operating Condition and
FOC = Full Operating Condition mean the same thing.
When I reported to
COMSUBGRU TEN in Oct. 1989 we were in
IOC at the time. After manning, extensive training, evaluated exercises, coordinated operations, testing etc. etc. right down to the
CACO (Who had the job of informing next-of-kin somebody wasn't coming home, which means
you're put in the freezer with the food if underway, of which I've known a couple that made that ride.) it was very intense and the pressure was on. And we had an Admiral just upstairs in case we needed
encouragement, which we never did as we're self motivated (That's what it means to be on a "boat".)
We had a couple of exercises to prepare us for our "
alternate" command responsibility as
COMSUBLANT ALT. it was no less important then our "primary" mission that the
SSBN's met their training and operational requirements. The final phase for us to reach
FOC culminated with a 24/7 two week ALTEX where we took over
all aspects of Submarine Ops, upon completion and shortly there after, we FOC in
MAR/APR 1990 on time, on schedule
as there is no finishing early as the process is highly structured.
You can substitute any infantry, air whatever into the above. The bottom-line is you "
fight" with what you have and fall back on your training.
So the last above and to answer your question, no
IOC/OPEVAL/FOC when discussing
new equipment has no bearing on in this case,
NG Units because
IOC/OPEVAL (Mission Training/Requalification etc.)/FOC (Unit deemed Combat Ready.) is a function of training, maintaining of
current equipment assigned etc. etc.
We would call it
EXPRIENCE and
Morale. You only enhance that when the
NG Unit finally does get that piece of equipment that completed the same process more or less except in
simplest it means something different at the end, [/b]is there added value, does it work, is it reliable in the field, will it increase our units combat efficiency, will it support our mission and I can go on and on.[/b]
It doesn't matter what branch or component you served in, if all the above didn't worked, then for us in combat, you might have enough to tell your "maker" how you love your family before you are "atomized" by the extreme pressure or you have a fish come out of your mouth like in "
The AYBSS" you're shallower water.
Loved the movie, but the "
boat" going down was about as real as I've seen on film. I remember holding
CINCLANTHOME's hand when I put the "death grip" to it during that part of the move, it felt that real.
Anyway, again two separate and distinct processes. I liked the question it was a fair one to ask.
I've learned if someone's asking the question, someone else was thinking about it.
It's late and time to hit the rack, the weekend will be over as drive through the gate later this afternoon. Gotta love the "
Wonderful World of Work!".
Regards
Pat
