Objective: Joint operational environment analysis is a critical prerequisite for decision-making at the operational level. The increasing complexity of multi-domain battlefields and the imperative for integrated action among land, air, naval, air-defense, cyber, and information forces highlight the need for a systematic and intelligence-driven approach. Despite the centrality of the intelligence cycle in leading military doctrines worldwide, a unified and indigenous model for analyzing the joint operational environment has not yet been formulated for the Islamic Republic of Iran Army.
Methodology: This study aims to identify and explain the dimensions of the joint operational environment of the Iranian Army and to develop a proposed intelligence cycle using thematic analysis based on Braun and Clarke’s six-step framework. Data were collected through doctrinal document analysis, comparative examination of the intelligence cycles of selected countries, and semi-structured interviews with subject-matter experts. Open, axial, and selective coding was conducted to extract the final themes.
Findings: The results reveal that the joint operational environment encompasses multiple dimensions, including physical, operational, informational, cyber-electromagnetic, human-cognitive, infrastructural, political-legal, and economic themes. Comparing these themes with international intelligence cycle models led to the development of a seven-step intelligence cycle tailored to the requirements of the Iranian Army. Originality: The study concludes that joint operational environment analysis must be grounded in a comprehensive intelligence cycle. The proposed seven steps include: requirements planning, joint operational environment analysis, collection, processing and refinement, analysis and production, dissemination, and feedback. This model enhances coherence, situational understanding, and decision-support effectiveness for joint operations.