OPLANOPORD

OPLANOPORD is a nonofficial term used to describe the close relationship between an operation plan (OPLAN) and the operation order (OPORD) that implements it. It is not a standard designation in most military doctrines, but appears in training and doctrinal discussions to emphasize continuity from planning to execution.

An OPLAN is a comprehensive plan for potential operations, prepared in peacetime or during crisis. It outlines objectives, concept of operations, possible courses of action, force requirements, logistics, command relationships, and sequencing. An OPLAN remains dormant until conditions trigger activation or execution.

An OPORD is a directive issued by a commander to subordinate units to execute or modify the plan. It translates planning assumptions into concrete tasks, assignments, and timelines. Typical OPORD content covers situation, mission, execution, sustainment, and command and control. In major operations, an OPLAN may be executed by a series of OPORDs, with FRAGOs and branches as the situation evolves.

Relation: The term OPLANOPORD highlights the synchronization between planners and operators. In practice, planning and execution are maintained as linked but distinct documents, with revisions coordinated to ensure alignment. The OPORD translates the OPLAN into actionable orders, tasking units, allocating resources, and establishing command relationships.

Limitations: Because it is not an official term, OPLANOPORD can cause confusion if treated as a single document. Clear governance requires version control, proper dissemination, and adherence to doctrine for both planning and execution.

See also: OPLAN, OPORD, FRAGO, JOPES.