Military Planning and Civilian Policy

• Military planning should produce outcomes that resonate with civilian policymakers.
• Control, in a military context, involves deciding resource allocation and can be pursued positively or through denial.
• Policy establishes the framework of interests and desired outcomes, guiding operational planners.
• Effective military planning avoids catastrophic successes that hinder post-conflict governance, as seen in Iraq.
• Aligning military means with policy objectives ensures efficient resource use and prevents overreach.