What is the primary purpose of After Action Reviews (AAR)?

The primary purpose of After Action Reviews (AAR) is to conduct performance assessments that reinforce learning and operational effectiveness. AARs serve as a structured review process where participants can assess what occurred during an operation or training exercise, what was successful, and what could be improved.

This focus on performance assessment is crucial because it allows teams to derive lessons from their experiences, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. By discussing these aspects collectively, team members can identify best practices and areas needing adjustment, ultimately enhancing their effectiveness in future operations. The collaborative nature of AARs encourages open communication and shared responsibility for outcomes, making it a vital tool for personal and unit development.

While critiquing individual performances, planning further operations, and improving existing training programs are relevant aspects of military operations and training, they are secondary to the core aim of reinforcing learning through thorough and constructive evaluation in the AAR process.