TRADOC Pamphlet 525-97
SOLDIER AS A SYSTEM
FOREWORD
The Soldier as a System (SaaS) Concept will enhance individual Soldier capabilities to protect
and defend ones self. In doing so, the collective efforts of this modernization program will
provide a more efficient and effective Future Combat Force.
The Army’s senior leadership recognizes the Soldier is the single most important asset in the
Army. It is Soldiers, with their intelligence, flexibility, and adaptability, who ultimately
accomplish the Army’s missions and functions. The Soldier must operate the simple and
complex equipment and weapon systems the Army uses. As Army equipment and weapon
systems become even more sophisticated and complex, the Soldier’s intelligence, training,
flexibility, and adaptability become increasingly important.
The intent of the SaaS Concept is to provide all individual Soldiers with superior capabilities
to accomplish assigned tasks and conduct missions against any opponent, based on a holistic
approach to modernization. This includes a full Doctrine, Organizations, Training, Materiel,
Leadership and Education, Personnel, and Facilities (DOTMLPF) analyses approach to resolve
issues and address Soldiers’ needs.
In future warfare, more than ever before, technology will increase man-machine requirements
with the Soldier. The individual Soldier will remain the Army’s center of gravity. The
successful identification and validation of SaaS requirements are critical in the establishment of
better DOTMLPF that will enable Soldiers to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively. This
integration concept will enhance Soldier capabilities and provide for efficient and effective use
of Soldier funding in support of The Army’s vision of the Future Combat Force.
