What is the primary purpose of a warning order?

The primary purpose of a warning order is to provide a preliminary notice of an impending action. This type of order is crucial in military operations as it alerts troops and other elements to anticipated actions or events that may occur in the near future. It gives them essential information to begin preparations without delving into the final details of the mission, which may still be under development. By doing so, personnel can start gathering resources, organizing, and planning their roles, thereby ensuring a smoother transition when the final orders are issued.

In contrast, finalizing a mission plan, issuing immediate action directives, or completing a combat order usually occur at a later stage in the planning process, once more detailed decisions have been made and specific actions are required. A warning order sets the stage for these later developments by alerting personnel ahead of time.