Page 239 - MDSL Final

NAVY PLANNING
Develop Commander’s Critical Information Requirements (CCIRs)

The planning team should then generate a list of proposed initial CCIRs
for the commander’s approval. It is imperative that the planning team
pays close attention to the content and wording of this list. CCIRs are
constantly evaluated and updated for their relevance and applicability.

Warning Orders

Once the naval commander approves or modifies the results of mission
analysis, the planning team may draft and issue a Warning Order
(WARNORD) to subordinate units. The WARNORD should include the
approved mission statement, the commander’s intent, the commander’s
planning guidance and any other information that will assist subordinates
unit with their planning. A WARNORD is a preliminary notice of an order
or action that is to follow. It is also a planning directive that initiates
the development and evaluation of military COAs by a supported
commander and requests that the supported commander submit a
commander’s estimate. Further it describes the situation, allocates
forces and resources, establishes command relationships, provides other
initial planning guidance and initiate subordinate unit mission planning.

Course of Action Development
A COA is a broadly stated potential solution that results in the
accomplishment of the mission identified in mission analysis. Prior to
COA development and as a result of mission analysis, the commander,
staff and planning team should have an approved mission statement and
an increased appreciation for the overall situation. Additionally, they will
have commander’s intent, initial CCIRs, initial risk assessment and initial
planning guidance.

After receiving guidance, the planning team develops COAs for analysis
and comparison. The commander, through the planning team lead,
should involve the entire planning team in COA development. The
commander’s guidance and intent focus the planning team’s creativity
to produce a comprehensive, flexible plan within the time constraints.
When possible, the commander’s direct participation helps the staff

To Nurture a Stable Environment at Sea 219