What is the first phase of combat planning?

The first phase of combat planning is preparation. During this phase, planners gather intelligence, assess the operational environment, define objectives, and develop strategies to achieve those objectives. Preparation is crucial as it sets the groundwork for subsequent phases, ensuring that all essential resources are in place, and that units understand their roles and the overall plan. This phase focuses on organizing the forces, coordinating logistics, and conducting briefings to ensure that all personnel involved are properly informed and ready for action.

In combat planning, the preparation phase ensures thorough understanding and readiness, which are critical for successful operations. Other phases like engagement, mobilization, and execution follow the preparation phase and rely heavily on the groundwork laid during this initial step. Engaging the enemy, moving forces into position, or executing the plan all depend on the thorough preparations made earlier.