Submitted annually, IPLs are the Combatant Commanders' (CCDR) opportunity to identify those capability gaps that introduce a level of risk to their ability to execute the Operational, Contingency, and Campaign Plans that support our National Military Strategy. The CCDR's IPLs should be limited to critical issues requiring the attention of the Secretary of Defense or Chairman. This list is prioritized across Service and functional lines and is fiscally constrained.
The Joint Staff highlights CCDR's concerns by employing the Functional Capabilities Board (FCBs) to provide analysis, assessments, and recommendations. This in turn, informs the development of the Chairman's Program Recommendation.