ATP-5-0-2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1 Download
Page 41 of 440
Planning 07 December 2020 ATP 5-0.2-1 25 2-59. A be-prepared mission is a mission assigned to a unit that might be executed (FM 6-0). Generally with a contingency mission, commanders execute a be-prepared mission because something planned has or has not been successful. When planning priorities, commanders plan a be-prepared mission after any on- order mission. A be-prepared mission can never be an essential task. 2-60. An implied task is a task that must be performed to accomplish a specified task or mission but is not stated in the higher headquarters' order (FM 6-0). Detailed analysis of the higher headquarters' order, the enemy situation, the terrain, and civil considerations helps staffs derive implied tasks. Additionally, analysis of doctrinal requirements for each specified task might disclose implied tasks. 2-61. Once staff members have identified specified and implied tasks, they ensure they understand each task's requirements and purpose. Staff members then identify an essential task or tasks. An essential task is a specified or implied task that must be executed to accomplish the mission (FM 6-0). Essential tasks are always included in the unit's mission statement. Step 2.4. Review Available Assets and Identify Resource Shortfalls 2-62. The commander and staff examine additions to and deletions from the current task organization; command and support relationships; and status (current capabilities and limitations) of all units. This analysis also includes capabilities of civilian and military organizations (joint, special operations, and multinational) that operate within their unit's AO. They consider relationships among specified, implied, and essential tasks, and between those tasks and available assets. From this analysis, staffs determine if they have the assets needed to complete all tasks. If shortages occur, the staff identifies to higher headquarters additional resources needed for mission success. Staffs also identify any deviations from the normal task organization and provide these deviations for commanders to consider when developing their planning guidance. A more detailed analysis of available assets occurs during COA development. Note. Simply stated, during this step, update the task organization and perform an analysis of tasks and available assets to identify any obvious capability shortfalls. For example if tasked to conduct a wet-gap crossing, but bridging assets are unavailable, discuss with higher headquarters whether to change the mission or allocate additional resources. Step 2.5. Determine Constraints 2-63. Commanders and staffs identify any constraints placed on their command. A constraint is a restriction placed on the command by a higher command. A constraint dictates an action or inaction, thus restricting the freedom of action of a subordinate commander (FM 6-0). Paragraph 3 of the OPLAN or OPORD usually identifies constraints. Other paragraphs and annexes to the order may also include constraints. The fires overlay, for example, may contain a restrictive fire line or a no fire area. Constraints may also be verbal, included in WARNORDs, or policy memoranda. Many operational constraints are commonly expressed as rules of engagement, laws, and authorities. Constraints can also be resource limitations within the command, such as organic fuel transport capacity, or physical characteristics of the operational environment, such as the number of vehicles that can cross a bridge in a specified time. Technique. When writing an order, present in paragraphs 2 and 3 (ideally) of the base order all specified tasks that could impact a subordinate's COA. Avoid burying these tasks in paragraphs 4 and 5 or the annexes. Essential tasks are tasks that already have been identified. They are not different or additional types of tasks and are not included on a separate list. Tasks can be marked by an (S) or (I) on a task list (specified or implied). Then either bold or asterisk the tasks that are essential—tasks that must be in the mission statement.