Deployment planning begins during which step of the joint operation planning process?

Deployment planning begins during the mission analysis step of the joint operation planning process because this phase is critical for understanding the operational environment, the mission requirements, and the resources that will be necessary for successful execution. During mission analysis, planners evaluate the enemy, the terrain, and other factors that affect how forces are deployed. This step is where the specific tasks, objectives, and the logistical considerations essential for deployment are laid out.

During this phase, defining the required forces and support needed informs the subsequent planning. By analyzing the mission in depth, planners can determine how to effectively allocate and mobilize troops and resources, which directly ties into the deployment strategies. Including considerations for time, space, and troop readiness ensures a robust deployment plan that is essential for mission success.

The correct answer highlights the integral role that detailed analysis plays in ensuring that deployment logistics align with the mission's overarching goals, setting the stage for successful operational outcomes.