Which sequence correctly lists the six phases of operations in order?

Which sequence correctly lists the six phases of operations in order?

• A. Shape; Deter; Seize initiative; Dominate; Stabilize; Enable civil authority
• B. Shape; Deter; Seize initiative; Enable civil authority; Dominate; Stabilize
• C. Shape; Seize initiative; Deter; Dominate; Stabilize; Enable civil authority
• D. Shape; Deter; Dominate; Seize initiative; Stabilize; Enable civil authority

Answer: (A)

This sequence shows how operations progress from shaping the environment to handing over governance to civilian authorities, with each phase creating the conditions for the next. First, shaping the environment sets the stage by influencing perceptions, building partner capabilities, and reducing uncertainty so future actions have a solid base. Determent follows to dissuade potential adversaries from escalating, preserving space and reducing risk as the operation evolves. Seizing the initiative then takes advantage of momentum, moving the operation ahead on favorable terms rather than reacting to the opponent, which helps maintain tempo and prevent a stall. Dominating the operational environment establishes clear security and control, ensuring freedom of action and reducing threats to stability. Only after that is there a focused effort to stabilize—addressing public order, governance, humanitarian needs, and rebuilding infrastructure to embed long-term peace and normalize civilian life. Finally, enabling civil authority transfers responsibilities to civilian institutions, allowing elected leaders and public services to manage governance and sustain stability without military involvement. This order is best because it pairs security and momentum with the gradual handover to civilian governance: you secure the environment first, build stable conditions, then enable civilians to govern, reducing the risk of collapse or backsliding if governance were attempted too soon.

This sequence shows how operations progress from shaping the environment to handing over governance to civilian authorities, with each phase creating the conditions for the next.

First, shaping the environment sets the stage by influencing perceptions, building partner capabilities, and reducing uncertainty so future actions have a solid base. Determent follows to dissuade potential adversaries from escalating, preserving space and reducing risk as the operation evolves. Seizing the initiative then takes advantage of momentum, moving the operation ahead on favorable terms rather than reacting to the opponent, which helps maintain tempo and prevent a stall.

Dominating the operational environment establishes clear security and control, ensuring freedom of action and reducing threats to stability. Only after that is there a focused effort to stabilize—addressing public order, governance, humanitarian needs, and rebuilding infrastructure to embed long-term peace and normalize civilian life. Finally, enabling civil authority transfers responsibilities to civilian institutions, allowing elected leaders and public services to manage governance and sustain stability without military involvement.

This order is best because it pairs security and momentum with the gradual handover to civilian governance: you secure the environment first, build stable conditions, then enable civilians to govern, reducing the risk of collapse or backsliding if governance were attempted too soon.