What document guides the Services under strategic guidance?

The Defense Planning Guidance (DPG) serves as a crucial document that provides strategic direction to the Services within the Department of Defense. It outlines the priorities and planning considerations necessary for the development and execution of defense strategies and capabilities. By establishing a framework for resource allocation, personnel requirements, and readiness, the DPG ensures that the military branches are aligned with national security objectives and that they adequately prepare for future challenges.

The DPG emphasizes the integration of joint operations and helps to coordinate efforts among the various Services, ensuring that all components work towards common goals within the defense strategy. This alignment is vital for effective joint operation planning and execution. In contrast, while other documents mentioned may provide additional context or vision, none offer the same level of direct strategic planning guidance for resource management and operational readiness as the DPG.