What is the purpose of a "concept of operations" (CONOPS)?

The purpose of a "concept of operations" (CONOPS) is to provide a detailed description of how military operations will be conducted to achieve specific objectives. A CONOPS serves as a vital framework that outlines the operational approach, detailing the roles and responsibilities, key tasks, and the integration of various forces and resources to execute the mission effectively. It conveys the overall intent of the operation and ensures that all participants understand the vision and objectives, facilitating coordination among different branches and units involved in the operation.

A well-structured CONOPS guides the planning process, enabling military leaders to anticipate challenges and allocate resources appropriately. It functions as a communication tool that translates strategic goals into actionable plans, thereby aligning the operational efforts with overarching military strategies.

Other options provided do not accurately reflect the primary function of a CONOPS. Summarizing the history of previous military conflicts, outlining ethical considerations, or establishing funding requirements do not encompass the operational focus and detailed execution planning that a CONOPS is meant to address.