GTA 31-01-003 Special Forces Detachment Mission Planning Guide: January 2020

This publication outlines the planning process as it relates to a Special Forces operational detachment-alpha (ODA) conducting deliberate planning for special operations. Planning is an essential task common to all aspects of Special Forces operations. Army Special Operations Forces provide our nation with unique, sophisticated, and tailored capabilities operating in ambiguous, high-risk environments around the world. It is critical that everything addressed during the planning phase is useful and functional. Once planned, the actions of the ODA at the tactical level often have effects at the operational or strategic level. Special Forces planning will take into consideration the full range of the lethal and nonleathal effects based on the combined capabilities of special operations forces available. This planning process supports the United States Government and coalition partner nation objectives.