Which item is NOT a key input to Step 4 COA Analysis?

Which item is NOT a key input to Step 4 COA Analysis?

• A. IPOE Products
• B. Updated Running Estimates
• C. Revised Commander's Planning Guidance
• D. COA Statements and Sketches

Answer: (A)

Step 4 COA Analysis is about testing each developed COA against the current situation and commander’s intent by war‑gaming how it would unfold, so you need data that directly shape that analysis: the formal COA statements and sketches from the previous step, the most up‑to‑date running estimates, and any revised planning guidance from the commander to keep the analysis aligned with intent. IPOE products come from intelligence preparation of the environment and inform understanding of the enemy and environment, but they aren’t listed as a direct, primary input to this particular analysis step in the standard MDMP sequence. They’re part of the broader planning picture and can influence thinking, but the core inputs for evaluating viability, risk, and feasibility at this stage are the COA statements and sketches, current running estimates, and updated guidance.

Step 4 COA Analysis is about testing each developed COA against the current situation and commander’s intent by war‑gaming how it would unfold, so you need data that directly shape that analysis: the formal COA statements and sketches from the previous step, the most up‑to‑date running estimates, and any revised planning guidance from the commander to keep the analysis aligned with intent.

IPOE products come from intelligence preparation of the environment and inform understanding of the enemy and environment, but they aren’t listed as a direct, primary input to this particular analysis step in the standard MDMP sequence. They’re part of the broader planning picture and can influence thinking, but the core inputs for evaluating viability, risk, and feasibility at this stage are the COA statements and sketches, current running estimates, and updated guidance.