What are the seven steps of the joint planning process for air (JPPA)?

The seven steps of the joint planning process for air (JPPA) are fundamentally structured to guide planners through a comprehensive approach to joint air operations. Each step is crucial for developing an effective air campaign that is aligned with overarching strategic objectives.

The first step, Initiation, involves recognizing the need for planning and establishing the framework for the operation. It sets the stage for all subsequent activities. Next, Mission Analysis focuses on understanding the mission's purpose and the environment in which operations will occur, providing vital context for the planning process.

COA (Course of Action) Development is where planners formulate multiple feasible approaches to accomplish the mission. This is followed by COA Analysis and Wargaming, where the potential effectiveness of each COA is examined through simulated scenarios to identify strengths and weaknesses. COA Comparison allows for an assessment of the COAs against established criteria to determine the best option.

Following this, COA Approval is necessary to formally select the preferred COA before proceeding to Plan or Order Development, which involves detailing the selected COA into actionable orders that direct forces during execution.

Each of these steps builds on the previous one, ensuring a thorough and methodical planning process that enhances the likelihood of mission success. This structured approach is essential for effectively integrating