What factor is NOT included in the mission variables of METT-TC?

In the context of the METT-TC framework, mission variables include factors that are critical for planning and executing military operations. The acronym stands for:

• Mission

• Enemy

• Terrain

• Troops (available forces)

• Civil considerations

The option identified as correct, which is resources, does not explicitly fall under the traditional METT-TC variables. Instead, resources can be viewed as part of the broader troop considerations or as part of the planning process, rather than a standalone variable.

Understanding this distinction is essential because METT-TC emphasizes specific, defined elements that commanders need to assess to formulate effective strategies and tactics. While resources are undeniably important in any military operation, they are typically interrelated with the troops and not treated as a separate mission variable in the METT-TC framework. This reinforces the structure and focus of military planning by directing attention to the critical considerations explicitly laid out in METT-TC, rather than dispersing focus onto more general concepts like resources.