NOT one of the four guiding principles?

• A. Commanders drive the Operations Process
• B. Apply critical and creative thinking
• C. Build and maintain situational understanding
• D. Supply chain optimization and procurement

Answer: (D)

Guiding principles describe how leaders approach the Operations Process, focusing on leadership actions and thinking rather than specific tasks. Commanders driving the Operations Process reflects the responsibility of leaders to shape and steer the whole cycle. Applying critical and creative thinking embodies the mindset used to solve problems and make informed decisions under uncertainty. Building and maintaining situational understanding emphasizes keeping the team aligned with the evolving picture of the battlefield or mission environment.

Supply chain optimization and procurement, while essential to keeping operations supplied, is a logistics function rather than a guiding principle about how to lead and think through the Operations Process. It represents a capability area within support and sustainment, not a principle that guides the leader’s approach to planning, decision-making, and command. Therefore, it is the option that does not fit as one of the guiding principles.