How many stages are there in the reverse planning sequence used for air assault planning?

• A. 4
• B. 5
• C. 6
• D. 3

Answer: (B)

Reverse planning in air assault operations is about starting with the end state and working backward to the start, so every action is tightly aligned with the objective. This approach is structured into five stages: define the end state and success criteria; identify the tasks needed to reach that end state and how they relate to one another; sequence those tasks and determine dependencies and conditions that must be met; develop the lift plan, timing, security, and required assets to execute those tasks; and finally validate the plan through coordination, risk assessment, and rehearsals to ensure feasibility and refine as needed. Because this framework covers all critical steps from objective to execution, five stages is the correct count. The other options would omit or add steps that aren’t part of the standard reverse planning sequence.