MCTC Planning Guide (3.2Mb) 6 SEPT 2011 jc.pdf

MISSION TRAINING

COMPLEX (MCT)

PLANNING GUIDE

6 SEPTEMBER 2011

[Formerly the Battle Command Training Capability Facility]

Army Criteria Tracking System Standard

Information Category Code 17213

Table of Contents

PROGRAM OVERVIEW ………………………………………………………… 3

CATEGORY CODE DATA ……………………………………………………... 5

MTC FACILITY DESCRIPTION………………………. …….………… ….… 6

MTC CAPABILITIES

MTC TYPES ………………………………………………………………...…. …8

ROOM DESCRIPTIONS…………………..………………………………….…. 13

LAND AND SITE REQUIREMENTS ………………………………………..… 22

LESSONS LEARNED …………………………………………………………

Caveats:

- The term Battle Command Training Capability (BCTC) has been replaced with Mission Training Complex. Although this document may read “BCTC” or “MCTC”, both of these terms refer to the MTC.

- The term “standard” does not mean exactly the same or identical. The MTCs are not a “cookie cutter” design. All MTCs are designed using certain standard aspects such as cruciform design, general floor plans, and exterior treatments.

Every facility will differ somewhat due to design evolution and the incorporation of lessons learned.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Battle Command Training Capability (MTC) program is a component of The Battle Command Training Support Program (BCTSP). The BCTSP provides Army requirements validation, funding, management, scheduling, and expertise in the design and construction of MTC facilities. The design and construction of the MTC is funded by DAMO- TRS and is managed by the TBWG MDEP [DAMO-TRS]. DAMO-TRS provides the program funding into the current POM with associated Fiscal Years for project development [MTC schedule]. Once the project is two years from the POM year of execution USACE begins the process of 1391 validation, selects an A&E for the projects, and establishes the design charrette schedule. When the design is complete and accepted from the A&E, USACE lets the contracts for construction.

The NSC (National Simulation Center) is the Lead [Executive] Agent for DAMO-TRS and provides the MTC MILCON Design Team for the MTC MILCON program. The Design Team serves as the action agent for the EA and DAMO-TRS and attends the site survey, 1391 build, and all design charrettes for each project to ensure that the standards of design are maintained and that the design meets the latest criteria of training requirements. The Design Team also maintains the “lessons learned” from the design and construction of previous MTC facilities. The Design team interacts and assists the District Corps of Engineers who provide project management, the installation staff and users, and the selected Architect and Engineering firm who develop the design. The Design Team consists of subject matter experts in the fields of:

o Training and training support requirements [NSC] o Simulation supported training architecture and training event design [NSC] o The necessary equipment and network design required to develop the training environment [NSC / PEO Stri] o Communications design and equipment, SIPR and NIPR [ISEC / NSC / PEO

STRI]

o Architectural and Engineering expertise [Huntsville Center Installation Support Center of Expertise IXCX] o DIACAP Process and Certification [NSC / ISEC / NETCOM] o SIPR / NIPR installation and security [ISEC] o Electronic Security System [Huntsville CoE ESS] o Garrison coordination and continuing support and maintenance [IMCOM]

The intent of the Battle Command Training Capabilities facility program is to provide the Installation Commander the capability and tools to meet the training support mission. The MTC standard interior design provides capabilities and options for training and training support that are not available in current facilities. Selected features include a design that allows separation of training based on training audience, event, or classification. This allows training and training events to be conducted simultaneously at different echelons and classifications.

The MTC facility is intended to be the cornerstone facility on the installation training campus which may consist of the MTC, Training Support Center, CCTT, and a Virtual Training Facility.

As such, the MTC is intended to be of significantly unique exterior design so as to be recognizable as a training center while complimenting the installation style and design guide.

The exterior design begins with the standard exterior design and interior floor plan and is then adapted to meet the installation design guide for colors and materials. Unique items such as light extrusions and exterior panel contrast should remain in the design. These are two elements of design that make the facility unique and recognizable as the MTC.

MEDIUM MTC, FT RILEY KANSAS

Category Code Data.

1.1 Category Code 172.13, Battle Command Training Capability (MTC)

1.2 Area UM = SF

1.3 Other UM = PN

1.4 Program UM = SF

1.5 Type = B – Building

1.6 Glac = 1730 – Building

1.7 Proponent = DCS Army G3

1.8 IC = 05 – Training Facilities

1.9 FCC = 172 – Training Buildings

1.10 FCG = 17213 – Battle Command Training Capability

1.10.1. FAC = 17213 – Battle Command Training Center

1.11 ISR Facility Class = 1100 – Operations and Training

1.12 ISR Category = 1120 – Training Instruction Facilities

1.13 ISR Subcategory = 1113 – Battle Command Training Center

1.14 DA Pam 415-28 (Category Code) Revise name for 17213 from Simulation

Facilities to Battle Command Training Center [note: this description differs from the description currently published in DA Pam 415-28 (Category Code)]

1.1.14 Table B–31, Simulation Facilities (172) -CATCD: 17213

Revised as follows: Long title: BATTLE COMMAND TRAINING CENTER -Short title:

MTC Facility type: Building UM1: SF-UM2: PN-Program UM: SF FAC: 1724 -FCG:

F17200 Proponent: DCS, G-3 GLAC: 1730 -Investment code: 05 Description: A dedicated building for conducting computer supported individual and collective battle staff training.

Facility contains RTOCs (reconfigurable tactical operations centers), training exercise work cells, classrooms, technical control, MCER (main communications and electronics) room, AAR (after action review) auditorium, and administrative space., The RTOCs are separate rooms large enough to accommodate complete staff elements of organizations that are battalion-sized or above (for example, S-1 through S-8) with computer terminals interlinked to a central server that replicates the command and control devices normally used by the training unit. The classrooms are used primarily for training operator level personnel on the use of the command and control systems. The training exercise work cells are used for the execution of large training events and may house command and control equipment similar to the RTOC. All three elements (RTOC, classroom, workcell) are electronically configured to provide capability overlap as required.

Facilities in this category also may require additional space to accommodate opposing force staff elements of similar organizational size. Differs from both Automation-Aided Instruction Building (17136), whose separate classrooms are intended to deliver instruction or courses that are not dependent upon interaction with activities conducted in adjacent classrooms and Battle Lab (17214), which is dedicated to developing new technologies, organization composition, or war-fighting doctrine using primarily electronically generated staff elements. Exterior areas for unit tactical operations centers are provided with an improved surface, power, and data links to the area.

FACILITY DESCRIPTION

The MTC is a complex computer centric facility that includes training and administrative space and provides electronic capability for computer supported individual command and control training and collective training for unit commanders and staff. These facilities are typically supported by an installation DPTMS [Director of Plans, Training, Mobilization and Security] using Government and Contractor staff. The MTCs include: reconfigurable tactical operations space, classrooms, training event work cells, video teleconferencing capability (VTC), after action review facilities (AAR), Sensitive Compartmented Information Facility (SCIF) [Large MTCs only] or a Temporary Secure Working Area (TSWA), Main Communications Electronics Room, Simulations and C4I Technical Control Areas, general supply and storage, secure storage [only in MCER and TWSA], compact item electronic maintenance and repair, break areas, latrines, and administrative support space. This is a multipurpose facility intended for use by active component Garrison Commanders, training centers of the Active and Reserve components, and combined arms training centers in major training areas to support the mission of providing command and control operator level training and command and staff collective training.

The standard MTC is designed around an internal network for both simulations and communications. The MCER (main communications and electronics room) and Technical Control provide the connectivity and simulations support for the facility and enable worldwide communications and data exchange. In general, the MCER contains all of the secure and non secure servers and communications devices while the technical control room contains all of the simulation servers and associated equipment. The SIPR terminus for the facility is normally located in the MCER.

Protection for the facility is provided by 2 systems: The DIACAP process provides the means for communications and electronic protection and the ESS (electronic security system) provides the physical security. All facilities will be DIACAP certified upon facility completion. The DIACAP program is under the auspices of ISEC / CIO G6. The ESS system consists of “card readers” for access and a camera system for security. The ESS system allows physical control of the facility and permits each wing to be segregated by access permissions on the card reader.

This provides the capability of sealing each wing and allows training at different levels of classification to be conducted simultaneously. The ESS program is supported by the Huntsville CoE.

FFE (Furniture, fixtures, and equipment) is not provided under the MTC design program and is usually not included in the MCA funding for the facility. Currently the FFE for the MTC facilities are provided thru PEP Stri using OPA funds provided by DAMO TRS. The rule of thumb for FFE is that if it is attached or an integral part of the facility then MCA funds may be used. If the FFE is not attached or part of the structure then other sources of funding must be used. Due to funding constraints and POM changes there is no guarantee that this funding will be available.

MTC CAPABILITIES

The standard MTC is designed to provide full spectrum training capability for individual C2 training and computer supported unit command and staff training. The facility is capable of supporting multiple simultaneous training events with different security classification levels.

Additional capabilities are listed below.

o Command and Control training for multi-echelon, combined arms operations.

o Individual and Collective Training for C4I systems.

o C2 Sustainment training for Individuals, Commanders and Staff.

o Brigade Full Spectrum Exercises (FSX) o Simulation Supported Exercises – Platoon, Company, Battalion, & Brigade Scenarios o Mission Rehearsals for platoon through joint levels o Seminar training Brigade/Battalion, synchronization of Battlefield Operating Systems (BOS) and “what ifs” on OPLAN or courses of action o Training system to stimulate units Army Battle Command Systems (ABCS) to BN & BDE TOCs o Worldwide communications and data sharing thru communications devices or C2 devices o “right seat ride” capability with deployed units o Supports unit participation in dispersed CPX on a worldwide basis.

o Provide support to units throughout the entire ARFORGEN cycle including Reset

MTC TYPES

The standard MTC is developed in three primary sizes and configurations; small, medium, and large. The size of the MTC and appropriate funding are decided by DAMO-TRS and are tailored to meet the validated training requirements of the receiving installations. Although the primary consideration for sizing a MTC is the number, size, and type units to be supported and trained, this is not the only consideration. The standard design may be adjusted for facilities that support a TRADOC school installation, a Reserve Component installation / facility, or an installation with specific requirements that justify a departure from the standard. Departures from the standard should be raised early in the process so that a waiver may be obtained in a timely manner.

Small MTC

The small MTC design is developed to meet the validated training requirements for an installation supporting approximately 2 BDE equivalents. These requirements may vary and the design of the facility may be altered slightly to meet specialized training requirements.

The overall size for a small MTC is approximately 46,060 square feet.

This square footage figure may vary depending on funding, design, and training requirements. This facility includes classrooms, RTOCs, Work cells, Technical Control, MCER (Master Communications and Electronics Room), Administration, and supporting areas.

The small MTC will have all of the communications and operational capabilities found in all standard MTCs. Additionally, the facility will be protected by the ESS system and will be certified under the DIACAP process.

RENDERING OF A SMALL MTC

Medium MTC

The medium sized MTC is normally associated with an installation that is the stationing home of an Active Army Division. The medium MTC differs from the small and large with respect to square footage and numbers of RTOCs, work cells, and classrooms. The standard interior design remains basically the same with small adjustments as required due to differences in training mission requirements and type units to be supported.

The overall interior space associated with a standard medium MTC is 85,630 square feet. This may vary depending on allocated funding and validated training requirements.

The medium MTC will have all of the communications and operational capabilities found in all standard MTCs. Additionally, the facility will be protected by the ESS system and will be certified under the DIACAP process.

Floor plan: The standard floor plan for a medium facility is shown below:

Entry

RTOCs

Class rooms

MCER

Tech Control

TSWA

Work Cells

Loading Dock

Admin

AAR

TOC

Area

EXTERIOR VIEW OF A STANDARD MEDIUM MTC DURING

MAJOR TRAINING EVENT : FT CAMPBELL, KY

o Large MTC

The large sized MTC is normally associated with an installation that is the stationing home of an Active Army Corps or is a “Hub” under the “Hub and Spoke” concept. The large MTC differs from the small and medium with respect to square footage and numbers of RTOCs, work cells, and classrooms. The standard cruciform interior design and adjacencies remain basically the same with small adjustments as required due to differences in training mission requirements and type units to be supported.

The overall interior space associated with a standard large MTC is 145,585 square feet. This may vary depending on allocated funding and validated training requirements.

The large MTC will have all of the communications and operational capabilities found in all standard MTCs. Additionally, the facility will be protected by the ESS system and will be certified under the DIACAP process.

THE STANDARD FLOOR PLAN FOR A LARGE FACILITY IS SHOWN BELOW

EXTERIOR VIEW OF A STANDARD LARGE MTC

Room Descriptions

Classroom

Classroom design must provide the capabilities to meet the training needs of the units and must have the flexibility to support new and innovative training methods. The training ranges from instructor facilitated self-paced student training to interactive C2 training. The level of classroom used in these facilities is "Level 3 / High Tech Room" such as “Classroom 21” or other modern digital C2 training facilities. It is an open architecture, standards compliant, fully networked multimedia classroom with interoperable Video Tele-training (VTT), C2 consoles [“green or white boxes”] matching the current Command and Control systems in the supported training audience units, internet access, installation networked with full distance learning capability. The classrooms must be reconfigurable and able to network with the work cells, RTOCs, technical control room, VTC conference rooms and the AAR room to facilitate “overflow” requirements and information / briefing sharing. Classified and unclassified simulation data drops including NIPR, SIPR, VOIP, and phone lines are required. Capacity must support the training of not less than 20 students and 2 instructors.

Minimum essential government furnished equipment (GFE) includes an instructor workstation, video/data projection system (instructor and student cameras), 2 projectors and projection screens, touch control panel (to control lighting, sound levels, and projection sources), and printing and reproduction capability that is networked to the administrative office area. Student tables are to have built-in power and data terminals.

Additional items that may be included in the classrooms (funding permitting) are:

o Audio system (wireless instructor microphone/student microphones) and typically

6 ceiling speakers. [Cannot raise the noise level above the sound specification for the facility. System must meet sound attenuation standards and must not be heard in adjacent classrooms].

o interactive white boards or wireless tablets o instructor classroom management system

The instructor workstation and projection screens should be located so that all students have an unobstructed view. The instructor station requires minimal essential equipment of computer, projector control, and lighting. The instructor should have digital access to each student computer.

Gross area for classrooms is derived from 36 Net SF allowance and 45% factor to convert to Gross = 52.2GSF per student.

Classroom Gross Area (SF)

MTC Size Training Audience Gross Area SF Small 165 8,613 Medium 338 17,744 Large 627 32,729

MTC Classroom in use

Work Cell

The work cell areas are multi-purpose rooms and are designed to enable training, education, and the practical exercise of Command and Control (C2) Training Systems as well as exercise control equipment and procedures. The primary use for the work cells is to provide areas for supporting player and control cells to replicate TOC workspace during a major CPX. These spaces also have the flexibility to accommodate teaching in the traditional lecture/discussion mode, perform computer instruction at each workstation, use projection media, and provide computer interoperability with simulations and C2 systems. The work cells must be reconfigurable and able to network with all other work cells, classrooms, the RTOCs, technical control room, VTC conference rooms and the AAR room to facilitate “overflow” requirements and information / briefing sharing. Classified and unclassified simulation data drops including NIPR, SIPR, VOIP, and phone lines are required. Room capacity must support the education and training of not less than 20 students and 2 instructors (or the same in terms of training support operators and supervisors during exercises). Approximate gross area for work cells is derived from 36 Net SF allowance and 45% factor to convert to Gross = 52.2GSF per occupant.

Work cell Gross Area (SF) MTC Size Training Audience Gross Area SF

Small 165 8,613 Medium 338 17,744 Large 627 32,729

Reconfigurable Tactical Operations Center (RTOC) The RTOC areas/rooms are multi-purpose use space and are designed to enable command and staff training, education, and the practical exercise of C2 Systems in a seminar or simulated tactical environment. The unit C2 systems can be driven by simulations placing the training audience in a simulated combat environment. Some simulation equipment may also be present in the RTOC. The reconfigurable TOC areas within the MTC facility should be capable of accommodating a brigade and below unit TOC complete with C2 systems and communications equipment. The RTOCs must be reconfigurable and able to network with field deployed TOCs whether on the local TOC pads, other installations, or deployed in a Theater of Operations.

Internal MTC connectivity includes other RTOCs, work cells, classrooms, technical control room, MCER, VTC conference rooms and the AAR room. Classified and unclassified simulation data drops; NIPR, SIPR, VOIP, and phone lines are required. Some classified and unclassified printing and reproduction capability, common to SICPS, is required. Additionally, depending on the training event, shredders may be required. Room capacity must support the education and training of not less than 20 students and 2 instructors (or the same in terms of training audience user unit, with system operators and leadership of battalion or brigade unit size TOC during exercises). When a larger TOC replication is required then more than one RTOC can be provided. Allowance based on replicated field environment TOC dimensions at 3250 GSF per brigade or battalion unit size. Data below shows approximate allowance for each facility size.

MTC Size # of RTOCs Gross Area (SF) Small 2-4 RTOCs as req 6500 Medium 4 RTOCs 13000 Large 6 RTOCS 19500

RTOC SET UP IN “CRISIS ACTION” CONFIGURATION

After Action Review (AAR) Room The AAR (after action review) room is the primary location where formal reviews and debriefing of training events take place. It is the equivalent of a multi-purpose auditorium, category code 17120 (reference the GIB and ACES Standard Design Criteria dated 16 Sep 2008). This room is fully audio-visually capable and has the capability to show, receive, or send simulation feeds and live video in both secure and non-secure modes. The AAR room is electronically equipped and capable of sending secure and non-secure live video to the classrooms, RTOCs, and work cells within the MTC. Additionally, The AAR room is electronically equipped to send, receive, and display live streaming video, both secure and nonsecure from any external source. The room is reconfigurable with dual screen projection, replicated Unified / Tactical Battle Command information systems and displays viewable by all occupants. The AAR room may also have sliding wall map boards, sliding wall dry erase boards, dual presenter stations, and low level and dim controlled lighting.

o In order to enable adjacent unit players/units to participate in the “primary” AAR, the room is networked with the classrooms, work cells, RTOCs, technical control room and VTC conference rooms to facilitate “overflow” requirements and information / briefing sharing. The AAR room requires a fixed, distributed, classified and unclassified VTC capability to all the multi-purpose and conference rooms within the building and to any location outside the facility. Classified and unclassified simulation data connections, NIPR lines, and SIPR lines are required.

o The AAR room should comfortably seat the personnel that would attend the After Action

Review at various levels. Seating is arranged to allow audience view of all displays. The type seating may vary ranging from a theater form with individual seating to powered work tables displayed in a “crisis action” configuration. The spacing of the rows in the AAR room should be increased to account for soldiers and some equipment. Today’s soldiers tend to be larger than average and this should be taken into consideration when designing the interior audience seating of the AAR room.

o There is a “control booth” located in the rear of the AAR room to allow the technician to control the lighting and all audiovisual presentations. Additionally, the VTC and communications terminus should be located in this room.

o Recommended seating in the AAR room is:

Size Seating

Small 80 Medium 100 Large 130

VTC Conference Room The rooms have full capability for worldwide 2-way audio-video communication. The rooms may be networked through the Main Communications and Electronics Room or may use portable VTC systems. The VTC systems will be able to operate in both secure and non secure modes.

The VTC rooms also serve as conferencing or general purpose administrative use via scheduling and are intended to support training surge events. The rooms provide meeting space, network access, a projector and screen for briefings, and controlled lighting. The main conference room requires a fixed, distributed, classified and unclassified VTC capability to all the multi-purpose and other conference rooms within the building and to any location outside the facility.

Classified and unclassified simulation data drops, NIPR, SIPR, VOIP, and phone lines are required.

VTC CONFERENCE ROOM

Senior Trainer Conference Rooms This area is designed as office space for the Senior Trainer or a VIP requiring temporary space in the facility. The space is large enough to accommodate a desk and additional chairs for private meetings. Classified and unclassified simulation data drops, NIPR, SIPR, VOIP, secure phone, and a phone line are required to monitor exercises and communicate beyond the facility. A computer and network access to printing and reproduction in the admin office area is required.

Temporary Secure Working Area A Temporary Secure Working area is defined as a temporarily accredited facility that is used no more than 40 hours monthly for the handling, discussion, and/or processing of SCI, but where SCI should not be stored. With sufficient justification, the CSA may approve longer periods of usage and storage of SCI for no longer than 6 months.

TSWAs should be covered by an alarm system. These areas should not be used for periods exceeding an average total of 40 hours per month. No special construction is required other than to meet sound attenuation requirements as set forth in Annex E, DCID 6/9, when applicable.

When not in use at the SCI level, the TSWA will be secured with a key lock or a combination lock approved by the CSA.

Access will be limited to personnel possessing a US Secret clearance.

Normally a paved security fenced pad will be constructed immediately to the TSWA to support the necessary communications equipment required for this type training.

Main Communications and Electronics Room (MCER The MCER is the central hub for all internal and external communications. It is the termination point for all internal connections inside the MTC and provides the terminus for all systems, both secure and non secure, leading out of the MTC. The MCER houses key servers, switches and telephone connections as well as radio equipment to include HF and FM capabilities and the associated Radio Wire Integration Systems (RWIS).

Equipment is mounted in racks to ensure safety of the equipment and to reduce clutter and maintain required TEMPEST separation. Sufficient and possibly separate HVAC and power is required due to heat from the server stacks.

The MCER and all CERs will be designed IAW the requirements of TIA/EIA-569-B and the I3IMP. The MCER must have “open storage” capability for classified secret information and materials. Within the MCER, a secure operations storage area with safes is required for COMSEC materials, classified hard drives and other sensitive communication and automation components.

Technical Control Room The Technical Control room is located next to the MCER and houses the simulation servers, C2 interfaces, and technical staff. These simulations are networked throughout the MTC to stimulate C2 systems and control constructive simulations during training.

The simulation data is generated in the technical control room and passes through the MCER.

This may be both secure and non secure and the data may be passed to internally within the MTC or may be sent to external locations.

The technical control room has full “play back” capability on both computer consoles and audio visual systems for exercise management and monitoring. Classified and unclassified printing and reproduction capability is available in technical control.

Classified and unclassified simulation data drops, NIPR, SIPR, VOIP, and phone lines are required.

Information / Reception Area This is the main entrance into the facility. Visitors receive security access screening at the reception / security desk. Visitors can also receive information on daily activities in the facility via a digital map and training schedule mounted on the wall. The area serves as a customer waiting area outside of the secure training environment. No access to the facility should be granted past this area until the proper badge has been issued by the security personnel of the MTC staff.

MAIN LOBBY WITH SECURITY WINDOW ON LEFT

RECEPTION AND SECURITY MGR OFFICE FOR INPROCESSING

Director’s Office Office space for the director and essential staff who oversee the daily operations of the facility is located in the administration wing. The director’s office is large enough to include work space and a conference table with chairs for routine meetings. The other offices accommodate work space with a desk and shelving. NIPR and phone lines are required. Access to printing and reproduction is also required at all director/staff work locations.

Administrative Office Area (Government and Contractor) The admin wing of the MTC provides adequate space for the facility government staff and the contractor support and training staff. The government and contractor office areas are in the administration wing and are adjacent, but separated. Cubicles within the office space are used to establish individual work areas. NIPR connectivity and phone lines are required. Space for printing and reproduction capability is required. A common area / break area (kitchenette with running water/sink) is accessible by both office areas.

Conference Room (admin office area) The conference room provides comfortable seating and meeting space for the facility staff. The room includes the capability for lighting control, portable VTC equipment, network access (NIPR and SIPR drops), a projector and screen for briefings.

Training Library This is a storage area for unclassified training reference materiel/media and training aids. The room can also serve as additional office or work space when required or for research, and allows for future growth and expansion within the facility. NIPR and phone lines are required.

Computer/Electronic Equipment Maintenance Room This room is a dedicated room for computer set-up, storage, and maintenance / repair for all computers and electronics in the facility. Work bench space, NIPR access, and a phone line are required for daily use. Classified and unclassified simulation data drops, SIPR, and VOIP may also be required for equipment testing. This room also serves as an office for the technician.

Loading Dock A loading dock is required for the MTC facility. It should be remote from the student entrance and collocated with the supply/storage area. Garage door style entrance, minimum of 16’ , is required from the loading dock to the main supply/storage room in order to enable passage of forklifts with palletized loads. Space is required for at least one large freight truck to back up to the loading dock and unload using a mobile hydraulic lift platform supported by a bridging hydraulic ramp.

An additional concrete loading ramp is required to enable man-portable items (dolly) and forklift accessibility.

EXTERNAL LOADING DOCK

Supply / Storage Rooms For storage of all facility items from general cleaning and office supplies to technical equipment and systems required of the facility. The storage rooms will include industrial warehouse type shelving to safely hold large and heavy items. A hand truck will be included for moving heavy items and safely lifting them up to the shelves. The shelving will not impede the loading dock entrance or mobility in the center of the room. Entrance doors must provide clearance for not less than sixty inches wide and eight feet in height.

EQUIPMENT STORAGE AREA WITH CAGED STORAGE AREA

Soldier Storage / Mud Room Secure storage for soldier personal and tactical equipment during training events. This area is necessary for ingress and egress from the TOC Pads during training. Controlled access is necessary based on the large number of students in the facility at any given time. The room is located adjacent to, and connected to, male and female latrines in the RTOC wing area. Hooks on the walls are available which allow soldiers to remove and hang protective gear and load bearing equipment associated with a combat unit staff soldier.

Latrines (with Showers) Male and female latrines with standard fixtures per Army Standards and based upon the occupancy model. A janitor closet is located with each group of toilets within the latrine areas for storage of cleaning equipment and supplies. Showers are provided in both male and female latrines (single location only, adjacent to the RTOCs).

Student / Staff Break Area (canteen) An area within the building serves as a “break area”. This area contains lounge type furniture with seating for approximately 45 personnel. An outdoor break area on the property should also be included in the design.

NIPR Café An area within the building, located close to the break area that has NIPR drops and lounge type furniture with tables and chairs similar to the Break Area. The area allows students and visitors to gain access to the internet and check unclassified e-mail while on a break.

Mechanical / Electrical Room

This area provides dedicated interior space and exterior areas for power, plumbing, fire protection, and HVAC equipment. Space is also allocated for the maintenance and services of the equipment, and storage of all associated operator and maintenance manuals and tools. The primary user of this space is the DPW. This area has an outside entrance and an entry on to the roof of the facility.

Tactical Operations Center (TOC) Pad area The TOC area is that area outside of the facility that allows training units to establish their organic tactical operations centers (TOCs). The TOC area should be sized to provide space for the normal units associated with the facility and their TO&E equipment. TO&E equipment would include tentage, generators, antennas, vehicles, light sets, and all FFE (furniture, fixtures, and equipment) that is in the unit set.

MEDIUM MTC WITH DEPLOYED TOCS

DEPLOYED TOCS DURING TRAINING EVENT

Basic components of the TOC Pad include: paved hardstand (pervious concrete or Geo-Grid), drainage, communications hubs, and power hubs for TOC servers (via in ground terminals or exterior wall mounted terminals), lighting and security. Communications drops provide access to local telephone and exercise VOIP phone lines. Network access is required for classified and unclassified simulation data drops, NIPR and SIPR. Each TOC Pad terminal should provide as a minimum: Power with 200 Amp Service, Grounding per Army SICPS requirements, and all area security lighting and fencing.

Recommended TOC Pad space is a minimum of 40,000 sq ft for a small MTC, and 100,000 sq ft for all other facilities. TOC area will vary greatly depending on funding, type training units and frequency of training.

The primary TOC area is located adjacent to the RTOC wing and the work cell wing. The fenced concrete pad to support the vehicles associated with the TSWA should be located immediately outside of the TWSA in the TOC area.

Access Control Point (guard house) Access control point (ACP) for personnel and equipment is required based on multiple security levels associated with training and exercise needs. The ACP building must provide for separate paths of ingress and egress in order to facilitate orderly processing and entrance/exit. This is the primary point of entry onto the facility compound. The ACP design must provide space for personnel and equipment security checks, and operating space for a minimum of two guards. It also supports vehicle and parking management needs by way of access pass issue and processing. This building is located central to the front compound egress and ingress and serves as the site access control. Two-way traffic plus a third lane for bag inspections within the building (multiple lanes) is required based upon facility occupancy models. Phone and data lines are required for communication to the main building.

ACCESS CONTROL POINT

Communication Antenna “farm” (on roof and ground mounted for BFT) This structure provides a fixed platform for facility antennas and other communications equipment in support of training and exercises, such as EPLRS, BFT, and ASTI. Additionally some antennas may be mounted on a concrete pad on the ground. These antennas can also be used by the training units during exercises. Normally however, units will erect their antennas on the TOC area with the TOCs. The structure is intended to be low maintenance and of suitable height to support placement of multiple antennae and satellite dishes as needed.

Land and Site Requirements

Priority for land use is associated with large acreage requirements to support the full range of the Battle Command Training Capability (MTC) facility. Each facility and support area must factor as a minimum 100% land area for future expansion. MTC is a training magnet of functional space and provides increasing opportunity for simulation and virtual training. Light Industrial land use is first priority based on proximity to troop housing areas and higher potential for large acreage tracts to support MTC needs. Second order priority would be for heavy industrial land use based on potential for large acreage tracts availability. Third order priority would be for Range/Training Areas in close proximity to heavy industrial land use versus further down range or remote to cantonment areas. Direct access for troops is the priority for proximity.

Consideration must be made for utilities connectivity, tactical vehicle access, LAN & WAN communication and instrumentation access and high volume vehicle traffic loads.

Components of land requirements are: primary facility; site egress and ingress; utility access;

installation Design Guide standards; POV parking; tactical vehicle parking; exterior Tactical Operations Center areas/pads; and force protection stand-off distances. Future expansion needs should factor a minimum 100% expansion of each functional component. Site selection varies however a general guide is shown for each MTC size.

Small 9-13 Acres gross area

Medium 15-20 Acres gross area Large 24-30 Acres gross area

The site selected for the MTC should be suitable for the facility construction with regard to slope, contour, drainage, and other site preparation factors. The amount of site preparation that must be performed as part of the project is a prime consideration in site selection. Additionally, the site should be as close as possible to existing utility connection points (tie ins) for water, sewer, power, and connectivity to the installation LAN.

The site must be free of all contaminants and should have a favorable environmental assessment or impact statement with regards to wetlands, protected species, and other environmental considerations.

Examples of a site development plan follow:

Lessons Learned

Planning and Design A Design- Bid- Build design strategy is strongly recommended due to the complexity of the MTC and varying user requirements. This facility is not suitable for a Design- Build or a “site adapt” approach.

Each project may involve a different USACE District, a different District PM, and different installation staff, and a different Architect & Engineering firm. The only constant in this process is the Design Team and the experience from past MTC design projects. Early on in the process (initial meeting) the Design Team should brief the standards, both interior and exterior, to the entire development team along with the “lessons learned” from completed projects. This briefing would provide a starting point or baseline from which to continue design. Huntsville CoE would provide all of the necessary plans and drawings from previous projects to District PM, the installation staff, and the selected A&E. These materials can be used as a “starting point” or initial baseline.

The “user”, normally the current BSC Director and staff, must know what their training requirements are and be able to explain these to the other team members [Dist Corps of Engineers PM, DPW staff, and A&E].

Between the “0” or initial design meeting and the 35% design review, the A&E and the PM of the District Corps of Engineers should visit an existing and operational MTC [recommend Riley, Campbell, Bliss]. This one day visit will enable them to fully understand the complexity of the facility that they are about to design. Additionally they would have an opportunity to get lessons learned and recommended changes from the actual MTC staff. This has proven to be extremely valuable in the past.

Early coordination with the agencies providing the ESS and the FFE for the facility is very important. The requirements for these systems that will be installed within the MTC must be understood by the users, the installation staffs, the District PM, and the A&E and must be included in the initial phases of the design.

The selected site should be easily accessible by the training audience and should be located as close to the troop areas as possible. With the restricted space available on installations this is not always possible. Normally, sites are recommended by the installation ( DPW Master Planner) and agreed upon by the Installation Commander, Master Planner, the District PM and the Design Team. The site must be agreed upon by the installation command and all concerned before a full 1391 and 3086 can be completed. The site must also be cleared for use [free of contaminants, especially unexploded ordnance], by the environmental agencies at the installation level. An environmental impact assessment is needed to ensure that the site does not infringe on wetlands or have a detrimental impact on protected wildlife and plants.

All comments and questions on the A&E design submittals (normally 35%, 65%, and 95%) must be included in “Dr. Checks” for each level of submittal. During each charrette or design meeting, all of the “Dr. Checks” comments need to be addressed and closed. Very few comments or issues should be “carried forward” to be addressed later. This could cause a delay in the project design. This system must be controlled and disciplined by both the A&E and the PM from the District Corps of Engineers. Technical reviews for each design submission [35%, 65%, and 95%] are expected from Huntsville CoE, the District, the user, IMCOM, installation DPW, and PEO STRI.

There should be a clause in the contract between the District Corps of Engineers and the selected A&E to allow continued support once the construction contract has been let. This has proven very valuable in the past and has saved construction contract modifications.

Each project should have a specification in the A&E contract to provide “renderings” of the facility. These renderings should be of the approved floor plan and exterior views at a minimum.

When the project is ready to advertise for a construction award, the full construction contractor selection process should be used. This includes competitive bids, a Source Selection Board with a user representative, and no requirement to accept the lowest bid.

In order to meet the USACE requirement of 40% energy efficiency against the EPACT 5 model it is strongly advised to consider a photovoltaic system to augment energy efficiency.

There is a requirement for 48 strand Fiber Optic cable to support the MCTC. This cable is terminated in the MCER within the MCTC and terminated at the other end in the nearest NEC manhole or hut that will support 48 strand FO. Requirements on connectivity and bandwidth are increasing with increased training loads and with the implementation of LVC-IA, worldwide training events, training complex interconnectivity, and the digital range programs.

Coaxial cable within the facility may be run through the “black” trays as long as it does not pass through or over a secured area [MCER, TSWA]. At a minimum, this cable should be double shielded to prevent RF leakage and a TEMPEST violation.

The original flooring in the initial MTCs was stained polished concrete. The quality of this flooring has not met expectations so the standard is now a resinous polyvinyl flooring. This type flooring is long lasting and mar and abrasion resistant. Although this type flooring comes in many colors it is recommended that users select a color that will not show boot scuffs. Soldiers boot soles are no longer black, they are tan.

References:

Army Standard for Echelons Above Brigade (EAB) Command and Control Facilities (C2F) dated 28 February 2008.

General Instruction Building (GIB) and Army Continuing Education System (ACES) Standard Design Criteria dated 16 Sep 2008.

Battle Command Training Capability (MTC) Army Criteria Tracking System (ACTS) Standard Information, Category Code 17213, dated June 2006.

DCID 6/9 Manual, Physical Security Standards for Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities Effective 18 November 2002