When does an OPLAN become an Operation Order (OPORD)?

When does an OPLAN become an Operation Order (OPORD)?

• A. When the commander approves it at staff level.
• B. When the commander sets an execution time.
• C. After the operation moves to the field.
• D. After contingency planning is complete.

Answer: (B)

The key idea is moving from planning to execution. An OPLAN outlines possible actions, tasks, and sequencing as a plan. It becomes an OPORD when the commander commits to a specific moment to start operations and issues the formal directive to begin, including that execution start time. That start time is what converts the planning document into an actionable order for units. Without an assigned execution time, it remains a plan; once the time is set, the directive to carry out the actions at that moment becomes an OPORD. The other options describe administrative steps or milestones that don’t by themselves initiate action.

The key idea is moving from planning to execution. An OPLAN outlines possible actions, tasks, and sequencing as a plan. It becomes an OPORD when the commander commits to a specific moment to start operations and issues the formal directive to begin, including that execution start time. That start time is what converts the planning document into an actionable order for units. Without an assigned execution time, it remains a plan; once the time is set, the directive to carry out the actions at that moment becomes an OPORD. The other options describe administrative steps or milestones that don’t by themselves initiate action.