precombat

Precombat is the phase of planning and preparation that occurs before the onset of combat or a high-risk engagement. It encompasses activities intended to increase readiness, reduce uncertainty, and minimize casualties. The term is used across military, law enforcement, emergency services, sports, and game design to describe the preparatory period before active conflict or competition.

Key components typically include intelligence and threat assessment, reconnaissance and route selection, mission objectives clarification, communication checks, equipment and weapon readiness, medical readiness and casualty response planning, safety protocols, and contingency planning. Rehearsals, briefings, and mental conditioning are often incorporated to ensure personnel understand roles, timings, and escalation criteria.

In military and paramilitary organizations, precombat checks and inspections (PCCs and PCIs) are standard procedures performed by leaders to verify that everyone and every piece of gear is present and functional. Precombat planning may involve map study, potential engagement strategies, and coordination with adjacent units or assets. In gaming and simulations, precombat activities include loadouts, skill or tactic selection, and scripted rehearsals to optimize performance.

Ethical and safety considerations emphasize deconfliction, lawful use of force, and adherence to rules of engagement. The concept highlights that outcomes in combat or competition are often shaped as much by preparation as by action during the engagement itself.

See also: pre-engagement, mission planning, risk assessment.