What information does "WHEN" refer to in military orders?

The term "WHEN" in military orders specifically refers to the timing of the operation. This encompasses not just the start time, but also the duration and any critical time-related factors that are essential for the execution of the mission. Understanding the timing is crucial for coordinating actions, synchronizing efforts with other units, and ensuring that all participants are prepared to act as planned. Clarity about when an operation will take place helps to manage resources effectively and optimize the chance of success by aligning all actions to the specified time.

In contrast, the other options refer to different aspects of military orders. The location of the operation pertains to where it will occur, the objective relates to what is to be achieved, and the reason captures the rationale behind the operation. Each of these is important in its own right, but they do not address the specific aspect of timing that "WHEN" signifies.