What do the terms "On order" and "Be prepared to" signify in tactical planning?

The terms "On order" and "Be prepared to" are indeed significant in tactical planning as they indicate a certain mindset regarding readiness and potential actions. These phrases signal to units that they must be ready to execute a specific task or operation when called upon, while also emphasizing the need to maintain flexibility in their current operations.

When a commander issues orders using these terms, it highlights limitations on friendly force actions since units are not to act on their own but must wait for further direction. This ensures that forces maintain coordination and do not undertake unnecessary or uncoordinated actions that could compromise operational integrity.

Understanding these terms as designating readiness levels rather than outright deployment or communication needs is crucial in the context of military operations, focusing on how units prepare strategically to engage in future actions while remaining aware of their operational parameters.