JP 3-01 Countering Air and Missile Threats - Defense Innovation ...

Chapter IV
threads that tie all joint forces together, and those C2 systems must be aggressively
protected from enemy interference.
d. Planning should include the use of longer range attack operations against deep
threats. These should be included in planning contingencies developed under the
collaborative planning process with other CCDRs.
3. Offensive Counterair and the Joint Air Operations Plan
a. The preponderance of OCA operations are conducted with joint air forces/capabilities
that are integrated in action through the JAOP. OCA planning is an integral part of this
overall joint air operations planning. The air estimate process has six phases that result in
the JAOP. While the phases are presented in sequential order, they can be worked either
concurrently or sequentially. The phases are integrated and the products of each phase are
checked and verified for coherence. Figure IV-1 illustrates the six phases. The following
explains the process in regards to OCA planning, not each phase:
(1) The process begins with mission analysis (i.e., analyzing the JFC guidance, the
situation, resources, and risks involved). Mission analysis provides the data that is used to
answer the essential question about an operation. The JFACC uses the mission analysis to
produce air objectives that support the JFC’s objectives. In general terms, the focus of OCA
is to attain and maintain the JFC’s desired degree of air superiority in the operational area.
This requires that both an enemy’s offensive and defensive air and missile capability be
made combat ineffective to some degree. Specific OCA objectives and desired effects
Joint Air Estimate Process
Mission Analysis
Intelligence preparation of the battlespace (IPB) is initiated. Phase focuses on
analyzing the joint force commander’s guidance.
Situation and Course of Action (COA) Development
IPB is refined to include adversary COAs. Adversary and friendly centers of gravity
are analyzed. Multiple air COAs or one air COA with significant branches and
sequels are developed.
COA Analysis
Friendly COAs are wargamed against adversary COAs.
COA Comparison
Wargaming results are used to compare COAs against predetermined criteria.
COA Selection
Decision brief to joint force air component commander (JFACC) with COA
recommendation. JFACC selects COA.
Joint Air Operations Plan (JAOP) Development
Selected COA is developed into a JAOP.
Figure IV-1. Joint Air Estimate Process
IV-2 JP 3-01