Parallel Planning

Definition

Simultaneous planning at multiple command levels while higher headquarters is still developing their order, allowing faster execution. Starting your homework before the teacher finishes explaining it, but with explosives.

Example Usage

Begin parallel planning now based on the warning order—we'll refine details once the full op order comes down.

Origin

Modern mission command doctrine, late 20th century

Fun Fact

This concept terrifies risk-averse officers who prefer waiting for complete information, while aggressive commanders love it—a philosophical divide that predates the terminology.

Source: Military planning doctrine and operational art theory

Related Terms

Advanced

spoiling attack

An offensive operation launched specifically to disrupt enemy preparations for their own attack, essentially hitting them first because defense is boring. It's the military doctrine of 'the best defense is hitting them before they hit you.'

🎖️ Military / Defense

Beginner

battle rattle

The complete combat gear a soldier wears, which makes an unmistakable rattling, clanking noise when walking. It's essentially turning yourself into a heavily armed Christmas tree that jingles with lethality instead of joy.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

time on target

The exact moment when multiple fire support assets simultaneously impact an objective, maximizing shock and destruction. Synchronized destruction, because timing really is everything.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

Echelon Formation

A stepped arrangement of units where each is positioned diagonally behind and to the side of the one ahead, creating a staircase pattern. Geometry class suddenly becomes relevant when you're trying not to shoot your buddy in front of you.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Beginner

net call sign

A designated name or code used to identify a particular radio station or unit on a communications network. Prevents confusion and theoretically provides operational security.

🎖️ Military / Defense

Intermediate

pop smoke

To deploy a smoke grenade, typically to mark a position for extraction, conceal movement, or signal aircraft. Also used colloquially to mean departing quickly from any situation.

🎖️ Military / Defense

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