This study investigates the influence of workload and skills on work effectiveness among AV8 Gempita armored vehicle crews, with a specific focus on the mediating role of the leader. Despite standardized training, variations in crew performance suggest that contextual and leadership factors may shape operational outcomes. Survey data were collected from 226 commanders, gunners, and drivers, and analyzed using Partial Least Squares–Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). The measurement model demonstrated strong reliability and validity. Descriptive results revealed moderate levels of workload (M = 3.46) and skills (M = 3.34), high ratings of the leader’s role (M = 4.03), and moderate work effectiveness (M = 3.31). Structural analysis confirmed that workload (? = 0.316, t = 6.214, p < 0.001) and skills (? = 0.272, t = 4.417, p < 0.001) both have significant positive effects on work effectiveness. Mediation analysis further demonstrated that the leader’s role partially mediates these relationships. Specifically, workload showed a significant indirect effect on work effectiveness through the leader’s role (? = 0.058, t = 3.279, p = 0.001), and skills also had a significant indirect effect via the leader’s role (? = 0.068, t = 3.858, p < 0.001). The model explained 29% of the variance in work effectiveness, representing moderate explanatory power. These findings highlight leadership as a pivotal mechanism that strengthens and stabilizes the effects of workload and skills without fully substituting their direct influence. Theoretically, the study integrates workload theory, human capital perspectives, and military leadership frameworks to explain crew performance. Practically, it underscores the need to embed cognitive-load management, commander-led micro-drills, and systematic leadership assessment in AV8 standard operating procedures to enhance crew effectiveness and operational reliability.
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