What is an air tasking order (ATO)?

An air tasking order (ATO) is a critical document that serves as a directive detailing specific air operations scheduled for a designated time frame. It outlines various aspects of air operations, including target assignments, mission objectives, available resources, and the timing of sorties. The ATO is essential for coordinating airpower effectively and ensures that all units involved in the operation have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.

In the context of military operations, the ATO provides a structured way to integrate air operations into the broader mission framework, facilitating communication and coordination among various units and platforms. It not only helps in planning air missions but also ensures that air operations are aligned with overall strategic goals.

Other choices fail to capture the full scope of the ATO. For instance, a summary of ground troop movements pertains to land operations and not specifically air operations, which is outside the ATO's focus. Additionally, while reporting outcomes of air missions is important for assessing effectiveness, it goes beyond the purpose of the ATO, which primarily focuses on operational directives rather than post-mission analysis. Lastly, guidelines for aircrew conduct are crucial for safety and operational integrity, but they do not encompass the operational planning and coordination that the ATO provides.