ATP-4-90 Brigade Support Battalion Download
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Support Operations 18 June 2020 3-7 commander's critical information requirements, enemy, and friendly action. At such points, based on assessment, commanders may decide to alter the initial operations concept and execute preplanned branches or sequels. A branch is a contingency option built into the base plan that allows flexibility and adjustment to the plan beyond the initial stages of the operation. A sequel is a subsequent operation based on the possible outcomes of current operations. During planning, sustainment commanders and staffs develop branches and sequels as part of the order. During planning the S3 and SPO collaborate throughout MDMP from receipt of mission until the operation order is published and disseminated. Both staffs have roles in developing a distribution plan that is later included in the unit order as part of the operations concept. All plans account for friction and uncertainty. Every plan should have enough redundancy and time allotted to enable success should it not be perfectly executed. The plan prioritizes effectiveness over efficiency. Combat operations are inherently wasteful and uncertain. Plans that depend upon intricate timing and assume no wastage are unlikely to meet the commander's intent. Figure 3-2 below depicts one way in which the S3 and SPO can interact during planning to develop an order. The materiel management, transportation operations management, and distribution integration functions are shown to depict which of those functions supports MDMP at a specific point. Commander and staffs may adjust this interaction based on mission variables. Figure 3-2. Distribution management and operations process integration Preparation Preparation includes activities performed by BSB units and Soldiers to improve their ability to execute an operation. Preparation creates conditions that improve BSB opportunities for success and include activities such as rehearsals, training, and inspections. It requires BSB commander, staff, unit, and Soldier actions to ensure units are ready to execute operations. Again, understanding the required distribution management functions assists in preparation. This allows commanders to properly position supply and distribution capability in the most advantageous manner. Preparation helps the force transition from planning to execution. Preparation normally begins during planning and continues into execution by uncommitted units. ATP 4-90