What type of exercise is ideal for testing communication links between units?

The ideal exercise for testing communication links between units is a Command Post Exercise (CPX). This type of exercise allows commanders and their staff to engage in realistic scenarios while remaining in a fixed location. It focuses primarily on the command and control aspects, which includes the effectiveness of communication systems. During a CPX, units can simulate operations and use their communication equipment to coordinate actions and transfer information, thereby truly assessing the reliability and functionality of their communication links without the physical movement of troops.

In contrast, a Live Fire Exercise, while important for training in fire operations and tactics, primarily emphasizes the execution of live fire maneuvers rather than the communication capabilities between different command echelons. A Field Training Exercise involves actual deployment of forces and live training in tactical environments, which can complicate the focus on communication links as units are often engaged in multiple tasks. Constructive Training generally involves computer simulations to replicate scenarios but lacks the direct emphasis on real-time communication challenges encountered in CPXs, making it less ideal for specifically testing communication links. Thus, a CPX stands out as the best option for this particular objective.