What is the primary focus of after-action reviews?

The primary focus of after-action reviews is to reflect on performance and identify areas for improvement. This process is essential in military training and operations, as it allows units to analyze what happened during an exercise or operation, understand why it happened, and determine how similar situations can be handled more effectively in the future. This reflective approach fosters a culture of learning, where both successes and failures are examined critically to enhance individual and unit performance in subsequent missions.

By concentrating on performance evaluation, after-action reviews serve as a critical feedback mechanism that supports continuous improvement. This insight helps leaders and units to adjust strategies, tactics, and procedures based on firsthand experiences, ultimately contributing to higher efficiency and effectiveness during combat or training scenarios.