What plan provides guidance for combatant commanders, services chiefs, and defense agencies for tasks and missions?

The correct answer is the Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP). This plan serves a critical role in military strategy as it provides detailed guidance for combatant commanders, services chiefs, and defense agencies regarding their tasks and missions in support of national security objectives. The JSCP helps to translate the priorities and strategies outlined in the National Defense Strategy and the National Military Strategy into actionable plans. It ensures that all military components understand their respective roles and responsibilities in preparing for and executing military operations.

The JSCP outlines specific missions and tasks, thereby facilitating coordination and cooperation among various military branches and agencies. This framework is essential for effective joint operations and ensures that resources are allocated efficiently to meet strategic goals.

The other options, while relevant in military operations, don’t focus specifically on providing the comprehensive guidance for tasks and missions that the JSCP does. The Joint Deployment Strategy, for instance, addresses the deployment of forces but does not provide the overall strategic framework like the JSCP. Operational Security Plans focus on protecting sensitive information and operations, and Contingency Action Plans pertain to specific operational responses rather than overarching mission guidance.