Operational Planning
Intelligence Preparation of the Operational Environment (IPOE)
Overview:
This course teaches how to assess and shape the battlespace using IPOE methodology. Students learn to identify threats, terrain, and the effects of time, space, and civilian considerations on operations.
Aim:
To prepare students to deliver intelligence inputs that inform and enable the full operational planning cycle, especially during mission analysis and COA development.
High-Level Training Objectives:
Conduct area and threat analysis using IPOE methodology.
Identify named and target areas of interest (NAIs/TAIs).
Integrate weather, terrain, and civilian considerations into analysis.
Define adversary capabilities, intentions, and decision points.
Support development of the Decision Support Overlay (DSO).