Page 237 - MDSL Final

NAVY PLANNING
draw broad conclusions as to the character of the impending military
action. However, the commander should not make assumptions about
issues not addressed in the HHQ directive. If it is unclear, ambiguous or
confusing, the commander should seek clarification.
Determine Specified, Implied, and Essential Tasks

Every mission consists of two elements: the tasks to be accomplished
by one’s own forces and the purpose of those tasks. If an operation has
multiple tasks, then the priority of each task should be clearly stated.
All levels of command develop mission statements (although lower
tactical units may only have tasks rather than mission statements). Using
information provided by HHQ and the commander’s initial planning
guidance, the planning team identifies specified and derive implied
tasks. From these two groups of tasks, the planning team will determine
the essential tasks.

Specified Tasks

Specified tasks are specifically assigned to a unit by HHQ. They are
derived primarily from the execution paragraphs of the directive but
may be found elsewhere such as in the mission statement, coordinating
instructions, or annexes.
Implied Tasks

Implied tasks are not specifically stated in the HHQ order but must be
performed in order to accomplish specified tasks. Implied tasks emerge
from analysis of the order, the commander’s guidance, and after
consideration of the adversary’s potential actions. Routine, inherent, or
SOP tasks are not included in the list of tasks.

Essential Tasks

Those tasks that most contribute to mission success are deemed essential
and they become the central focus for operations planning. Essential
tasks are those that define mission success and apply to the force as a
whole. Essential tasks can come from either specified or implied tasks. If
a task must be successfully completed for the commander to accomplish

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