During which phase is the 'commander's estimate' created?

The creation of the 'commander's estimate' occurs during the Mission Analysis step of the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP). This phase is crucial as it involves understanding the operational environment, the enemy's capabilities, and the mission's objectives. The commander evaluates the situation and formulates a strategy based on their understanding of the context and available resources.

The 'commander's estimate' serves as a foundational document that outlines potential courses of action, assesses risks, and offers a rationale for the commander's recommendations moving forward. This analysis is essential for informed decision-making and guides subsequent steps in the planning process.

In contrast, the Plan Development step is where the chosen course of action is refined and detailed. The Orders Production step focuses on the preparation and dissemination of orders based on the decisions made earlier in the process. The Course of Action step is the phase where various potential plans are developed, but the 'commander's estimate' has already been established by this point, as part of the Mission Analysis.