Page 235 - MDSL Final

NAVY PLANNING
The Commander’s Role in Mission Analysis

The commander’s role in guiding the planning team during this first step
of the planning process cannot be overstated. While the commander’s
close involvement is imperative throughout the NPP to ensure the
concept unfolds as visualised, the commander’s early engagement
shapes all subsequent staff planning actions. The commander is
instrumental in framing the nature of the operation and providing the
planning staff initial guidance. If planning is straightforward, although
potentially complex and something the commander and staff have
encountered before, the commander’s initial planning guidance might
be easily crafted. Regardless of whether the situation has evolved over
time or instantaneously, the commander has responsibility to guide the
planning team.

Commander’s Initial Planning Guidance

The commander not only receives guidance and products from higher
authority but is also responsible for developing initial planning guidance
and initial commander’s intent to guide and focus planning. In order to
do so, the commander assesses the situation based on HHQ direction
and the view of the OE, understanding of the problem and operational
approach. The commander also must consider the capabilities of the
forces assigned/attached of their combat readiness, material support,
unit morale, and other factors to accomplish the mission. This mental
exercise can consist simply of the commander’s thoughts or can be a
detailed analytical effort. Regardless, the commander develops a vision
of the OE then; it helps to produce guidance to the planning team.

Once the commander’s assessment is completed, the commander
should issue initial planning guidance before the staff begins mission
analysis. Ideally, the commander personally issues this guidance to the
staff, planning team, and subordinate commanders and seeks immediate
feedback to ensure that the vision of the operational environment and
guidance is understood. Depending on the time available, the commander
may provide either general or specific guidance for the planning team,
staff, and subordinate commanders to consider. It is critical to establish

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 215