Introduction to Combat Orders
MS301
References
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FM 3-21.8
FM 7-8 Infantry Platoon and Squad
SH 21-76 Ranger Handbook
FM 1-02 Operational Terms and Symbols
FM 5-0 Army Planning and Orders Production
Three Types of Combat Orders
• Warning Order (WARNO)
• Operations Order (OPORD)
• Fragmentary Order (FRAGO)
WARNO
Definition, Uses and Characteristics
•A Warning Order (WARNO) is a preliminary notice of an order or action which is to follow
•WARNOs help subordinate units and staffs prepare for new missions. They increase
subordinates’ planning time, provide details of the impending operation, and detail events that
accompany preparation and execution.
•While a WARNO informs recipients of tasks they must do now or notifies them of possible
future tasks, it however DOES NOT AUTHORIZE EXECUTION UNLESS SPECIFICALLY STATED.
•A WARNO does not have specific format however, the OPORD (5 Paragraph) format is a good
template / guide, it may include the following information:
•The enemy situation and significant intelligence events
•The higher unit’s mission
•Mission or tasks of the issuing headquarters
•The commander’s intent statement
•Orders for preliminary actions, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance
(ISR) operations
•Coordinating instructions e.g. estimated timelines, OPORD delivery
•Service and Support instructions, and special equipment needed,
regrouping of transport, or preliminary unit movements.
OPORD
Definition, Uses and Characteristics
•An Operations Order (OPORD) is a directive issued by a leader to his subordinates in
order to effect the coordinated execution of a specific operation.
•The OPORD uses the five-paragraph format to organize the briefing, to ensure
completeness, and to help subordinate leaders understand and follow the order. The
five paragraphs of the OPORD are:
•Situation
•Mission
•Execution
•Sustainment
•Command and Control
•OPORDs should be briefed in conjunction with a terrain model, concept sketch or
supporting resources, along with a map to explain the order.
•When possible, such as in the defense, give the order while observing the objective.
•The platoon/squad leader briefs his OPORD orally off notes that follow the fiveparagraph format.
FRAGO
•A Fragmentary Order (FRAGO) is an abbreviated form of an operations order, usually
issued on a day-to-day basis that eliminates the need for restating information
contained in a basic operations order.
•It can be issued in sections.
•It is issued after an OPORD to change or modify that order or to execute a branch or
sequel to that order.
•FRAGOs can be used to;
•Communicate changes in the enemy or friendly situation
•Task subordinate elements based on changes in the situation
•Implement timely changes to existing orders
•Provide pertinent extracts from more detailed orders
•Provide interim instructions until he can develop a detailed order
•Specify instructions for subordinates who do not need a complete order
“No plan survives first contact with the enemy”
-VON MOLTKE