When is it appropriate to phase an operation?

Phasing an operation is appropriate when the objectives and decisive points exceed the available resources. This concept recognizes that military operations often require a strategic approach where forces must be allocated effectively to achieve the desired outcomes. By breaking the operation into phases, commanders can prioritize elements, ensuring that critical objectives are met systematically, rather than attempting to tackle everything at once, which could lead to overstretching resources and potential failures.

In scenarios where resources are limited or when the complexity of the mission increases, phasing allows for better management of forces, logistics, and time. It ensures that as each phase is completed, lessons learned and achievements can inform the next steps, leading to greater success in fulfilling the overall mission objectives. This approach not only enhances efficiency but also reduces the risk of failure by allowing commanders to adapt to changing circumstances as the operation unfolds.