How should NLW training be characterized?

NLW training, or Nonlethal Weapons training, should be characterized as ongoing with realistic scenarios due to the nature of its application in various environments. Nonlethal weapons are intended to incapacitate or deter without causing permanent injury or death, which necessitates regular and practical training to ensure proficiency.

Ongoing training allows personnel to remain familiar with the latest nonlethal technologies, tactics, and techniques, while realistic scenarios prepare them for real-life applications where split-second decisions are crucial. This dynamic approach encourages skill retention and adaptability, essential for effectively managing force in diverse situations.

In contrast, the idea of treating it as a one-time event would not provide personnel with the continuous practice and updates needed for effective use. Theoretical training alone, lacking practical application, would fail to prepare individuals for real-world scenarios, undermining their readiness. Furthermore, limiting training to combat situations does not account for the importance of preparedness and response options in various contexts, including peacetime operations, law enforcement, and humanitarian missions.