How many substeps are included in the "Mission Analysis" step?

The "Mission Analysis" step in the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP) is crucial for establishing a clear understanding of the mission and ensuring that all aspects are considered before formulating courses of action. This step consists of precisely 18 substeps that guide the staff through a thorough examination of the mission and its requirements.

These substeps include analyzing the higher headquarters' mission, identifying the tasks and purpose, evaluating constraints and limitations, determining the operational environment, and examining friendly and threat forces, among others. Each substep serves a specific purpose in aggregating information and breaking down the mission into manageable components, which ultimately leads to a more informed decision-making process when developing potential courses of action.

Understanding the full scope of these 18 substeps ensures a comprehensive approach to mission analysis, allowing military planners to prepare for various scenarios and create flexible strategies in line with the overarching mission objectives.