What type of planning involves preparing forces for potential employment?

Operational planning is a critical process that focuses on preparing military forces for potential employment in specific missions. This type of planning translates strategic objectives into executable plans by determining how forces will be organized, employed, and supported in operations. It encompasses the development of detailed courses of action (COAs) and the coordination of various components of joint forces to effectively conduct operations.

Operational planning is inherently flexible, allowing military leaders to adapt to changing circumstances or threats, ensuring that the prepared forces can be efficiently deployed when necessary. It considers various factors such as intelligence, terrain, and timing, making it essential for the successful execution of military strategies.

In this context, while strategic planning deals with broader, long-term goals and mission objectives, and contingency planning focuses on preparing for specific scenarios that may arise, operational planning is centered directly on the tactical execution and readiness of forces. Logistical planning, on the other hand, deals with the support and sustainment of those forces, rather than their operational readiness. Thus, operational planning is the correct choice for preparing forces for potential employment.