From where is guidance for planning and executing joint operations derived?

The correct answer, joint doctrine, serves as the foundational guidance for planning and executing joint operations. Joint doctrine encompasses the principles and fundamental tenets that guide the conduct of military operations across the various branches of the armed forces. It establishes a common understanding of the nature, purpose, and conduct of operations, enabling joint forces to operate cohesively and effectively.

This doctrine is developed by subject matter experts through a collaborative process, helping to ensure that all service components can integrate their capabilities and work towards unified objectives. The guidance provided in joint doctrine includes concepts, tactics, techniques, and procedures that are vital for effective joint operations.

While joint strategy refers to the overarching goals and chosen means to achieve national security objectives, and joint regulations might involve specific administrative guidelines, it is the comprehensive body of knowledge encapsulated in joint doctrine that directly informs the operational decision-making process. Joint initiatives might align with specific projects or campaigns but do not provide the broad regulatory and conceptual framework necessary for joint operations.