Which phase in the joint planning process usually involves the approval of supporting plans by the supported commander?

The phase in the joint planning process that involves the approval of supporting plans by the supported commander is contingency planning. This phase focuses on developing specific plans to respond to various scenarios that might arise during an operation. During contingency planning, various options and approaches are considered, and supporting plans are drafted to align with the overarching strategy set by the supported commander.

The importance of this phase lies in its emphasis on coordination and integration of resources, making sure that all elements of the plan are well-aligned with the objectives and directives from the commander. Unauthorized or poorly aligned plans can lead to confusion and inefficiency during operations, making it essential for the commander to review and approve them.

While planning initiation, mission analysis, and execution planning are all crucial parts of the broader planning process, they do not specifically focus on the formal approval of supporting plans. Planning initiation sets the stage for what needs to be done, mission analysis assesses the operational environment and objectives, and execution planning details how the operation will be carried out. However, it's during contingency planning where the approval process by the supported commander is most critical, as it ensures that all the components of the plan contribute to mission success.