What is the key input to COA Analysis?

The key input to Course of Action (COA) Analysis is COA statements and sketches. This is because COA Analysis involves evaluating and comparing different potential courses of action to determine the best option for achieving the mission objectives. The COA statements outline the planned approach for each course, while the sketches provide a visual representation of the concepts, helping commanders and staff visualize the operations.

Having clear and detailed COA statements and sketches allows the staff to analyze each option thoroughly, assessing the risks, potential outcomes, and resources needed. This analysis is vital in understanding how each COA aligns with the overall mission and available resources, ensuring that the final decision is informed and strategically sound. Other elements like mission statements, resource allocations, and intelligence reports may play supporting roles but do not serve as the primary focus during COA Analysis, which centers on the specific courses of action being considered.