What is the term for assessing potential recovery operations before they commence?

The term for assessing potential recovery operations before they commence is "Personnel recovery mission planning." This process involves the systematic evaluation of various factors that may affect the success of a recovery operation. It includes gathering intelligence, analyzing the operational environment, identifying potential risks, and preparing for contingencies. This planning phase is crucial to ensure that all necessary resources are in place and that personnel are adequately prepared to execute the recovery effectively.

Thorough mission planning enhances situational awareness and operational readiness, which are essential aspects of successful personnel recovery operations. By engaging in personnel recovery mission planning, teams can develop strategies to mitigate risks and improve the likelihood of retrieving personnel in distress safely and efficiently.