Initial operating capability

Initial operating capability (IOC) is the state achieved when a combination of individuals and equipment are initially established and are functioning according to their respective tasks and are available in their minimum usefully deployable or operating forms. The term is often used in civilian and military operations.

The time and date at which IOC is achieved often defines the estimated initial operating timeline established by subject matter experts for an associated system or set of actions. Declaration of an initial operating capability implies that the full operating capability will be achieved in the future, for example by modifications or adjustments to improve the individual's or system's performances, deployment of greater numbers of individuals or systems (perhaps of different types), or testing and training that permit wider application of the expected tasks to meet their capability. Once the capability is fully developed and all tasks are met, full operating capability may be declared.