Which component of a military operation typically includes a statement of task and purpose?

The correct choice is the mission statement, as this component of a military operation clearly articulates both the task and the purpose of the operation. The mission statement serves as a concise summary that guides the planning and execution of military activities. It communicates the intended objectives and the rationale behind them, ensuring that all personnel involved have a shared understanding of their goals and the broader context of their mission. This clarity is essential for effective coordination and execution in a complex operational environment.

While operational objectives outline specific goals to be achieved during a mission, they do not always encompass the necessary context of task and purpose found in a mission statement. Terms of reference may provide guidelines and scope but they typically lack the direct and succinct focus of a mission statement. An execution plan outlines the detailed steps and logistics involved in carrying out a mission, which is important for implementation but does not define the overarching task and purpose in the same way that a mission statement does.