Which factor is critical in determining the readiness of Army Reserve forces?

The readiness of Army Reserve forces is significantly influenced by training frequency. Regular and consistent training plays a vital role in maintaining the operational readiness and effectiveness of reserve units. High training frequency ensures that soldiers are well-prepared, knowledgeable about their equipment and procedures, and able to execute their tasks effectively when mobilized or deployed.

While active duty engagement, deployment history, and reserve funding also contribute to readiness, they do not inherently ensure that personnel are trained and ready for their missions. For instance, a unit may have a solid deployment history but could still find itself unprepared if it has not engaged in sufficient training. Similarly, funding is important for ensuring resources and support are available, but it does not directly relate to the actual frequency or quality of training exercises. Therefore, the critical aspect of readiness hinges on how often and effectively reserve forces train together, which ultimately impacts their capability to respond when called upon.