When does the conduct phase occur during operations?

The conduct phase of operations is fundamentally linked to the engagement with the enemy during a mission. It is during this phase that actions are executed based on previously established plans and briefings, including engaging in combat if the situation necessitates it. When the squad is forced to fire on the enemy, it is indicative of the conduct phase, as it involves the transition from preparation and movement into direct engagement.

This well-defined phase comes after reconnaissance and planning, and is characterized by executing maneuvers which may involve taking offensive actions against adversaries, thereby solidifying its definition. The other options, such as reaching a destination, regrouping, or being in an assembly area, are more related to the phases of maneuvering, preparing, and staging rather than the execution of direct combat initiatives which is critical to the conduct phase.