Which step follows 'COA comparison' in the MDMP?

• A. COA approval
• B. Orders production
• C. Mission analysis
• D. Receipt of mission

Answer: (A)

The correct answer is COA approval, which is an essential step in the Military Decision-Making Process (MDMP). After the comparison of different Courses of Action (COAs), commanders and their staff evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each COA against the specified criteria. This evaluation determines which COA best supports the mission objectives and balances risks with operational effectiveness.

Following COA comparison, it is vital for the leadership to select and approve the best COA to move forward with the planning and execution phases. This COA approval solidifies the direction of the operation, allowing the staff to begin the orders production process to disseminate the chosen approach to subordinate units and ensure a unified execution of the mission.

In contrast, the other steps listed do not logically follow the COA comparison. Orders production pertains to the detailed documentation of the approved COA. Mission analysis occurs earlier in the MDMP and focuses on understanding the mission and operational environment before COAs are developed and compared. Receipt of mission is the very first step, setting the stage for the subsequent phases of MDMP. Thus, recognizing that COA approval directly follows the COA comparison is critical for understanding the sequence and flow of the planning process.