It is no surprise that a lot of SWAT teams use the Military five point operations order for mission planning. However, I see that base model being used even when there is more than enough time to detail plan. In the following paragraphs I will detail each of those portions, and suggest some break out section that can be added to the format.
Those things are usually contingencies, but we have to remember that the Ops plan serves the primary purpose of briefing a bunch of people what their individual and element functions are within the overall plan. In addition, it is a discoverable item and should stand on its own to show professionalism within the group.
Who — bad guys known to be present and associates information. Kids and No-PC adults should also be listed. Cops that will assist, SWAT, detectives that will come up post clear, patrol that will block roads or take custody of flex cuffed people should all be listed and present at the briefing.
MISSION Super short; In example, We will serve the warrant using surround and callout tactics, detain everyone leaving the residence for ID, and on command conduct a slow clear of the location making it safe for detectives to process the scene.
Breaking this up into parts is the best and easiest way to ensure nothing is overlooked. My first paragraph is Concept of the Operation. Very little detail in this, it is enough information that perimeter knows when Assault is moving and Assault knows where perimeter is located.
Basic information so we all understand the larger strategy. This is detailed planning AND briefing to ensure specific tasks are done at the right moment in time. Rather than write this all swat bil mappning as a single paragraph, have bullets for each item so you address them accordingly.
One of the things have here is Post-Entry assignments. It is not uncommon for us to leave SWAT men behind to keep the location secure while detectives search. Huge customer service piece, as well as a great bridge builder.
Food for thought. Sounds simple enough but in discussions with my teams legal advisor he has stated that a consistent theme from cases where SWAT got in trouble was lack of establishing Chain of Command. So make sure you do it. Radio channels for different elements goes here.
There should be an included graphics package with route maps, area overviews, deployment symbols and interior floor plan. The paper copy that is attached have places for it but this whole thing could easily be made into a power point presentation for ease of dissemination and flow of briefing.
Last but not least is adding a section at the end that forces the TL to justify the tactics, techniques and procedures chosen for the job. The checklist at the end of the document is one more control measure to ensure nothing swat bil mappning overlooked.
I always go through the checklist and I always find out I forgot something. Use it.