ATP-5-0-2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1 Download
Page 57 of 440
Planning 07 December 2020 ATP 5-0.2-1 41 of forces and means; it is an estimate that incorporates both objective and subjective factors. Comparing the significant strengths and weaknesses of each force in terms of combat power gives planners insight into— Friendly capabilities that pertain to the operation. Types of operations possible from both friendly and enemy perspectives. How and where the enemy may be vulnerable. How and where friendly forces are vulnerable. Additional resources needed to execute the mission. How to allocate existing resources. Step 3.2. Generate Options 2-124. Based on the commander's initial guidance and initial results of the relative combat power assessment, the staff generates options. The commander, COS, XO, or planning lead can direct the number and types of COAs to develop. If time is constrained, the commander's guidance may limit the number of options or direct options to the planners. In an unconstrained environment, planners strive to develop several possible COAs. For the remainder of the discussion of this step, assume the commander asked for the development of multiple COAs (see table 2-10 on page 42 for substeps to Step 3.2, generate options). Technique. A relative combat power assessment identifies exploitable enemy weaknesses, identifies unprotected friendly weaknesses, and determines the combat power necessary to conduct decisive action tasks. This assessment provides insight into options available and identifies resource shortfalls. In such operations, the elements of maneuver, fires, leadership, and information may dominate. Figure 2-5 shows an initial way of comparing combat power using the elements of combat power. Elements of combat power Friendly Enemy Advantage So what? Friendly Threat Intelligence Strength: Weakness: Movement and maneuver Strength: Weakness: Fires Strength: Weakness: Protection Strength: Weakness: Sustainment Strength: Weakness: Command and Control Strength: Weakness: Leadership Strength: Weakness: Information Strength: Weakness: Figure 2-5. Example relative combat power assessment