FM 5-0, The Operations Process - Federation of American Scientists

Glossary
*backbrief
A briefing by subordinates to the commander to review how subordinates intend to accomplish their
mission.
battle rhythm
(joint) A deliberate daily cycle of command, staff, and unit activities intended to synchronize current
and future operations. (JP 3-33)
*board
(Army) A grouping of predetermined staff representatives with delegated decision authority for a
particular purpose or function.
branch
(joint) The contingency options built into the base plan. A branch is used for changing the mission,
orientation, or direction of movement of a force to aid success of the operation based on anticipated
events, opportunities, or disruptions caused by enemy actions and reactions. (JP 5-0)
campaign plan
(joint) A joint operation plan for a series of related major operations aimed at achieving strategic or
operational objectives within a given time and space. (JP 5-0)
civil considerations
The influence of manmade infrastructure, civilian institutions, and attitudes and activities of the
civilian leaders, populations, and organizations within an AO on the conduct of military operations.
(FM 6-0)
*collaborative planning
Commanders, subordinate commanders, staffs, and other partners sharing information, knowledge,
perceptions, ideas, and concepts regardless of physical location throughout the planning process.
combat power
(Army) The total means of destructive, constructive, and information capabilities that a military
unit/formation can apply at a given time. Army forces generate combat power by converting potential
into effective action. (FM 3-0)
command and control
(Army) The exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and
attached forces in the accomplishment of a mission. Commanders perform command and control
functions through a command and control system. (FM 6-0)
*command group
The commander and selected staff members who accompany commanders and enable them to exercise
command and control away from a command post.
*command post
(Army) A unit headquarters where the commander and staff perform their activities.
*command post cell
A grouping of personnel and equipment organized by warfighting function or by planning horizon to
facilitate the exercise of command and control.
commander’s intent
(Army) A clear, concise statement of what the force must do and the conditions the force must
establish with respect to the enemy, terrain, and civil considerations that represent the desired end
state. (FM 3-0)
commander’s visualization
The mental process of developing situational understanding, determining a desired end state, and
envisioning the broad sequence of events by which the force will achieve that end state. (FM 3-0)
concealment
(joint) Protection from observation and surveillance. (JP 1-02)
26 March 2010 FM 5-0 Glossary-3