Leadership competencies in non-commissioned officers of the National Army based on the requirements of the MFRE 6-22 manual: the experience of the Artillery Battalion No. 27 of Santana, Putumayo

Abstract

In the military environment, the instruction of squad commanders assumes a particular nature, since it not only involves the development of management and problem-solving skills, but also the ability to foster commitment and loyalty among subordinates. The general objective of this research was based on evaluating the leadership competencies of non-commissioned officers who graduated from the National Army Non-Commissioned Officers Military School Sargento Inocencio Chincá, in the performance of their role as squad commanders from the requirements of the Fundamental Reference Manual (MFRE) 6-22. To carry out the research, the methodology used a mixed approach of explorative-descriptive scope; a survey distributed among different military ranks of officers and non-commissioned officers and a structured interview were defined as instruments. For the analysis, variables and categories of leadership attributes and competencies named in the MFRE 6-22 were defined. The results obtained reveal interesting patterns in the perception of non-commissioned officers' leadership. The consistency in the positive evaluation of the attributes of honesty, responsibility and commitment stands out. However, areas for improvement were identified, particularly in the demonstration of self-confidence and the ability to adapt in difficult service situations. In conclusion, the study highlights the complexity of military leadership, emphasizing the importance of effective communication, discipline, continuous learning and adaptability in Lance Corporals. It integrates relational, authoritarian, transformational and contingent approaches, concluding that an effective military leader must be versatile and adaptable to changing situations.