What does the term "commander's intent" convey?

The term "commander's intent" is a critical concept in military operations, indicating the desired outcome of a mission. It outlines the overarching purpose and objectives that the commander wishes to achieve, providing clear guidance to subordinate leaders and troops on the mission’s end goal. This clarity helps ensure that all team members align their efforts, make autonomous decisions, and adapt to changing circumstances on the battlefield, all while working toward the same ultimate objective.

In contrast to the other options, which touch on different aspects of military planning and execution, the essence of commander’s intent focuses solely on what success looks like for a particular operation, rather than specific budgetary concerns, tactical preferences, or detailed roles of each individual within the team. This definition fosters unity of effort and allows for flexibility in how tasks are approached, making it a cornerstone of effective military leadership and strategy.