What document would typically be issued before a military operation to provide initial instructions?

The document that is typically issued before a military operation to provide initial instructions is a WARNORD, which stands for Warning Order. A WARNORD serves as an early notification that an operation may be forthcoming, delivering essential details that outline the situation, mission intent, and any necessary preparations that need to be undertaken.

This document is crucial as it helps units begin planning and readiness actions ahead of a more formal order, ensuring that personnel are aware that an operation is imminent. It is a preliminary step in the operations order process, allowing for increased operational awareness and responsiveness among the troops.

In comparison, the Deployment Order is typically more formal and issued after decisions have been finalized about troop movements. The Mission Briefing usually occurs after a mission has been planned and includes detailed instructions for execution but does not serve the purpose of initial notification. An Operational Order is also more comprehensive and is issued after all planning is completed, detailing how objectives will be achieved. Thus, the WARNORD is distinctly focused on initial guidance and preparations.