Building a training system for damage control medicine

Currently, with the widespread application of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data and telemedicine, the battlefield casualty management system is undergoing profound transformation. Damage Control (DC) is a vital treatment strategy for addressing life-threatening injuries on the battlefield, such as multiple injuries, complex injuries and severe haemorrhage. Its core principle lies in rapidly stabilizing life-threatening conditions and vital signs, thereby creating an opportunity for subsequent definitive treatment. In the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the severe situation characterized by mass casualties, a high incidence of multiple and complex injuries, as well as limited treatment time and insufficient forward-deployed resources, has posed entirely new challenges to treatment models, the capabilities and qualifications of medical personnel, and the tiered deployment of medical teams. This paper addresses the requirements for the mass treatment of casualties in future large-scale symmetrical warfare scenarios. It systematically elaborates on the strategic significance of building a workforce in damage control medicine and proposes a systematic development approach that integrates international best practices, establishes multi-tiered teams, refines modular training, strengthens dynamic evaluation, and leverages cutting-edge technology. Drawing on contemporary warfare case studies and future trends, this paper proposes a development pathway for building a high-calibre, specialised and technology-enabled workforce, with the aim of providing robust human resource guarantees and technical support for enhancing battlefield medical capabilities in the future.