Which elements are determined early in the planning phase of an airdrop operation?

The correct answer highlights the importance of specific logistical components essential for the successful execution of an airdrop operation. Early in the planning phase, establishing the airfield, the aircraft to be used, and the aerial delivery equipment is critical.

The airfield serves as the launch point for the operation and needs to be selected based on its compatibility with the aircraft and mission requirements. Choosing the appropriate aircraft is crucial because it must be capable of safely carrying the intended cargo and performing the airdrop effectively. Finally, aerial delivery equipment must be determined up front to ensure that the correct systems are in place for the safe and accurate deployment of the cargo.

Understanding these foundational elements is essential for ensuring that the subsequent phases of the operation can be executed smoothly, as they dictate the parameters and capabilities of the entire airdrop mission.

In contrast, options that mention elements such as the airdrop method, drop zone, or flight plans are indeed important but typically would be determined after the primary logistics have been established in the early stages of planning. This shows that while other aspects are vital, the foundational elements must come first to create a solid operational plan.