FM/BG-1023.V1.01 - METT-TC breakdown
Mission
- Clarify the task:
- What must be done?
- Why is it being done?
- Who is involved?
- Where and when is it happening?
- This sets the foundation for your entire plan.
Enemy
- Understand the threat:
- Composition: Infantry, mechanized, armor, air?
- Capabilities: AT/AA, artillery, CAS?
- Size: Squad? Platoon? Reinforced?
- Location: Known or suspected?
- Posture: Patrolling, defending, attacking?
- These factors inform a threat assessment to shape friendly actions.
Terrain & Weather (OCOKA)
Use OCOKA to assess terrain:
- Observation & Fields of Fire: Visibility and weapon use
- Cover & Concealment: Protection and stealth
- Obstacles: Rivers, steep hills, barriers
- Key Terrain: Areas offering tactical advantage
- Avenues of Approach: Routes for friendly/enemy movement
Weather can also affect visibility, take in to account:
- Time of day, moon phase
- Fog, rain, cloud cover
- Forecast changes (e.g., dawn/dusk, moonrise)
Troops & Support
- Account for all friendly assets:
- ORBAT and available units
- Attached elements (e.g., medics, JTACs)
- Support assets (vehicles, CAS, artillery)
- Know your capabilities and limits before committing to an approach.
Time
- Time affects tempo and feasibility:
- Mission deadlines or time-sensitive phases
- Consider natural transitions (sunrise, sunset)
- Adjust pace based on time constraints
- Use time to pace movement, synchronize phases, or avoid detection.
Civilians
- Civilians can complicate operations:
- May be neutral, hostile, or mixed
- Can serve as lookouts or blend with insurgents
- Requires clear Rules of Engagement (ROE)
- Ensure ROE is unambiguous to avoid hesitation or collateral damage.
Last major change:
Initial SOP Port
