During the Initiation step, what does the JFACC and their staff NOT assess?

During the Initiation step of the Joint Air Operations Planning process, the focus is on gathering and evaluating critical information necessary for shaping the operational environment and understanding the planning context. The JFACC (Joint Force Air Component Commander) and their staff assess various elements that will impact air operations.

The final mission statement is not assessed during this step because the mission statement typically evolves as the planning process unfolds. At this stage, the emphasis is on understanding the immediate context, including current intelligence, available time, and relevant factors that might influence the operation.

By evaluating the current status of intelligence products, the time available until mission execution, and relevant influencing factors, the JFACC can create a more informed and adaptable planning strategy. However, the final mission statement will develop later as a culmination of the planning process and detailed assessments made throughout subsequent steps. This distinction highlights the ongoing nature of mission refinement in a dynamic operational environment.