ENHANCING COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN MILITARY CONTEXTS THROUGH ENGLISH FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES

Abstract

This paper explores the development of a Military English course within the framework of English for Specific Purposes (ESP). Military English, a specialized branch of English for Military Purposes (EMP), addresses the communication needs of military personnel in operational, training, and international contexts. Drawing on the pedagogical frameworks of English for Lawyers by Northcott and English for Cross-cultural Nursing by Bosher, the proposed course integrates formal language skills, task-based learning, and intercultural communication training. Northcott’s approach to precise terminology, formal documentation, and argumentative skills informs the development of command and control communication, while Bosher’s emphasis on cultural competence and scenario-based practice guides training for multinational and cross-cultural military operations. The resulting course aims to enhance both linguistic proficiency and operational effectiveness, equipping military personnel with the language skills necessary for clear, accurate, and culturally sensitive communication in diverse military environments.