What does the JFACC issue during mission analysis to express the end states of joint air operations?

The correct answer is the Commander's Intent. In the context of mission analysis within joint air operations, the JFACC (Joint Force Air Component Commander) issues the Commander's Intent to articulate the desired end states and objectives of the operations. This statement provides guidance on what success looks like from the JFACC's perspective, allowing subordinate commanders and their staff to align their planning and actions with these overarching goals.

The Commander's Intent is crucial for ensuring that all operations are coordinated and mutually supportive, as it outlines the vision for the operation and the desired outcomes. This enables forces involved in joint air operations to understand the broader context and prioritize their actions accordingly, even in dynamic operating environments.

Other terms, such as Operational Plan, Mission Directive, and Staff Assessment, play important roles in operational planning and execution, but they do not specifically convey the high-level vision and objectives as clearly as the Commander's Intent. The Operational Plan focuses on detailed strategies to accomplish assigned missions, while a Mission Directive provides specific instructions to carry out operations. A Staff Assessment pertains to the evaluation of capabilities and status, which does not directly express the end states of operations. Thus, the Commander's Intent stands out as the clear framework for articulating operational goals during mission analysis.