User:DJRMadril/sandbox

The Joint Operational Planning Process (JOPP)

Military Commanders make decisions on a constant and regular basis. Joint military staffs coordinate intelligence preparation of the operational environment and operations for commands and its commander. The Joint Operational Planning Process is a decision making tool for staffs to present options to it commander in order to assist in the making of complex decisions. The Joint Operational Planning Process provides options to Joint Planners when facing force employment decisions, while applying their knowledge, vast experience and sound judgment. It also provides the Joint Force Commander with multiple options and decisions to effectively employ limited forces and support resources.

Developing Joint Operational plans is a continuous function of the Joint Force Commander and the supporting staff. Joint Operational Planning Officers are continually revising their staff estimates and planning in response to changes in the operational environment.

Staff Estimates

The Joint Operational Planning Process is supported by staff section specific estimates. Staff Officers are divided into Divisions known as J-codes J-1 (Admin), J-2 (Intelligence), J-3 (Operations), J-4 (Logistics), J-5 (Plans), J-6 (Communications), J-7 (Exercises), J-8 (Resource/Finance), J-9 (Special Projects). Staff officers prepare staff estimates of the situation from their J-code perspective on how their division can support the Joint Operational Planning Process. Relevant sections of these staff estimates are used to support the final planning efforts of the Joint Operational Planning Process.

Purpose

The Joint Operational Planning Process supports planning at all levels of the force, specifically focused directing and guiding actions of forces two levels of command below the Joint Force Commander. The planning process supports efforts at the supported and supporting joint force commanders (JFC's). This process is designed to support the interaction between staff's commanders and subordinate headquarter staffs.

Primary Steps in the Joint Operational Planning Process: The planning process can be used to support contingency planning and crisis action planning at all levels of operations; strategic, operational and tactical level and across the Range of Military Operations (ROMO).

Step 1 Initiation of Planning

Step 2 Mission Analysis

Step 3 Course of Action (COA) Development

Step 4 Course of Action (COA) Analysis and Wargaming

Step 5 Course of Action (COA) Comparison

Step 6 Course of Action (COA) Approval

Step 7 Plans and Order Development