When should the METT-TC factors be evaluated during flight operations?

The METT-TC factors, which stand for Mission, Enemy, Terrain and Weather, Troops and Support Available, Time Available, and Civil Considerations, play a crucial role in military planning and operations. Evaluating these factors throughout all phases of tactical operations is essential because they provide a comprehensive understanding of the dynamic battlefield environment.

By continuously assessing METT-TC during the mission, operators can adapt to changing conditions and potential threats. For instance, new enemy movements or environmental changes may arise during execution, which could impact the effectiveness of the planned operations. Additionally, evaluating these factors in real-time allows for adjustments to strategies or tactics based on the current situation, ensuring that the mission is conducted with the highest chance of success and safety.

This ongoing assessment fosters situational awareness and informs decision-making not just during planning but also during execution and while transitioning between different phases of the operation. Consequently, maintaining vigilance on METT-TC throughout all tactical phases enables a more responsive and effective operational approach.