In the MDMP process, which step involves wargaming and analysis of the course of action?

• A. COA Analysis
• B. Mission Analysis
• C. Orders Production
• D. Plan Assessment

Answer: (A)

Wargaming and detailed analysis of a proposed course of action occur during the COA Analysis step. In this phase, each potential COA is tested against the commander’s intent, mission requirements, and anticipated enemy actions. The process simulates how the plan would play out in time and space, revealing feasibility issues, sequencing problems, resource shortfalls, and unexpected risks. This structured testing helps identify gaps, validate assumptions, and understand why a COA may or may not succeed under given constraints. After this analysis, the staff can compare the COAs and select the best option before moving on to orders and plan development.