Preface

This training circular (TC) provides standardized driver training and testing for Stryker operators in accordance with AR 600-55, The Army Driver and Operator Standardization Program. It teaches novice (inexperienced) and apprentice (one year of military vehicle driving experience) drivers to operate the Stryker vehicle. An apprentice driver may learn to operate the Stryker in less time than the novice, assuming skills learned on other military vehicles are transferable to Stryker operation. Leaders must emphasize driver training because high-technology Stryker vehicles demand greater driver skills and knowledge. This TC does not include any theater-unique requirements. It stresses hands-on training with minimal classroom instruction. 

 

Stryker drivers must know how to operate the vehicle's equipment effectively in all environments. They must be challenged to use safe driving practices and increase their awareness of accident avoidance. This TC is designed to accommodate these skills by providing:

l        Leadership tools needed to meet the challenge of producing quality Stryker drivers.

l        An introduction to Stryker simulated training.

l        Guidance on the use and accessing of lesson outlines.

l        Written and hands-on performance tests.

l        Listings of supporting training materials for all Stryker vehicles.

l        The latest techniques to enhance Stryker driver driving skills.

l        Slat armor attachment.

TC 7-21 is organized into the following eight chapters and four appendixes that provide Stryker driver training strategies and training support materials:

l        Chapter 1, Introduction, explains the purposes, focus, and contents of the manual.

l        Chapter 2, Driver Selection, Training, and Supervision, describes a system for identifying, selecting, and qualifying Stryker vehicle drivers.

l        Chapter 3, Safety Awareness, examines the safeguards necessary to ensure vehicle operators do not place the physical well-being of people in jeopardy.

l        Chapter 4, Environmental Awareness, examines the safeguards necessary to ensure the environment is not placed in jeopardy by vehicle operators.

l        Chapter 5, How to Use Training Support Packages (TSPs), describes the learning objectives of TSPs and how to access them for use.

l        Chapter 6, Stryker Drivers Vision Enhancer AN/VAS-5, explains Stryker driver use of the DVE.

l        Chapter 7, Stryker Driver Trainer, explains Stryker driver use of the Stryker Driver Trainer.

l        Chapter 8, Driving with Slat Armor, describes the vehicle's attachable armor commonly in use.

l        Appendix A, Stryker Combat Vehicle Driver TSPs, lists all available TSPs.

l        Appendix B, Sample Operator/Driver Training Schedule Calendar (10 Day), contains a sample training calendar for adaptation and use.

l        Appendix C, Stryker Driver Training Courses, discusses training course design and procedures.

l        Appendix D, Lessons Learned, uses a Stryker-comparable U.S. Marine Lessons Learned LAV report of experiences in Iraq.

To effectively execute this TC each instructor should ensure their Stryker operators are trained and tested to the standards contained within it. Graduates (licensed drivers) of this Stryker driver training program should be supervised until they gain the experience necessary to operate safely. Recent graduates should not be placed in situations that exceed their skill levels. Supervisors should periodically ride with each driver to observe safe operating procedures, and to determine any need for additional training.

 

This publication applies to the Active Army, the Army National Guard/Army National Guard of the United States, and the United States Army Reserve unless otherwise stated.

 

The proponent of this publication is the United States Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC). The preparing agency is the United States Army Infantry School (USAIS).

recommended changes

Users of this training circular are encouraged to recommend changes and make comments for improvement. Any comments should note the specific page, paragraph, and line where a change is recommended. Please add reasons for each comment so your recommended change will be understood and completely evaluated. Detailed revision suggestions should be submitted on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Publications and Blank Forms) to:

                                                                                                                                                                 

Email: systems.div@benning.army.mil

Phone: COM 706-545-1619 or DSN 835-1619

Phone:   COM 706-545-1619 or DSN 835-16190

Commandant

U.S. Army Infantry School

6751 Constitutioin Loop, Bldg 4

ATTN: ATSH-DOT

Fort Benning , Georgia 31905-5593

Unless otherwise stated, whenever the masculine gender is used, both men and women are implied.



Table of Contents