What is the role of the commander during the MDMP?

The role of the commander during the Military Decision Making Process (MDMP) is primarily to provide guidance and make decisions. In this capacity, the commander is responsible for setting the overall vision and intent for the operation, which informs the planning team's efforts throughout the process. This includes establishing the commander's critical information requirements, clarifying the mission, and prioritizing tasks.

The commander's involvement is crucial at various stages of the MDMP, as they must assess the courses of action (COAs) presented by their staff. However, the commander's role extends beyond merely reviewing COAs or making high-level decisions; it encompasses actively guiding the planning process, ensuring that all aspects align with the unit's mission objectives and that appropriate resources are allocated. Ultimately, the commander's decisions shape the execution of the operation and the effectiveness of the plan developed during the MDMP.