Who is responsible for supervising the overall conduct of a range exercise to ensure proper training and safety?

The Officer in Charge (OIC) is responsible for supervising the overall conduct of a range exercise, which includes ensuring that proper training and safety protocols are adhered to. The OIC holds the ultimate authority over the exercise and makes critical decisions regarding its execution. This role encompasses the oversight of all personnel involved, the management of resources, and the coordination of safety measures, making it essential for the OIC to have a comprehensive understanding of the training objectives and the associated risks.

While the other roles, such as the Range Safety Officer (RSO), play vital parts in the safety management and operational aspects of the range, the OIC's leadership encompasses the entire exercise. The RSO focuses primarily on safety concerns and enforcing safety regulations, but the OIC oversees broader aspects such as operational planning and staff coordination. The RCO, or Range Control Officer, typically manages range operations from a logistical perspective, but does not directly supervise the conduct of training. The Assistant Instructor supports the training process under the guidance of the OIC but lacks the authority and responsibility of overseeing the entire range exercise. Hence, the OIC's role is pivotal for ensuring both training effectiveness and safety.