Final answer:
Mission capable (MICAP) assets are critical materials necessary for ensuring military equipment, such as aircraft or missile systems, are ready and able to complete a mission. MICAP status is assigned to items that need immediate procurement to restore mission capability. Examples include essential parts for MIG aircraft or components at a confirmed or possible SAM site.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term mission capable (MICAP) refers to assets that are considered critical for the accomplishment of a military operation or mission. When a unit reports a MICAP, it means they have an equipment shortage that is impacting mission capability, and the required part or item is necessary to complete the mission. It's a high-priority status indicating that the material is needed immediately to return a piece of equipment, such as an aircraft, to a mission-capable condition.
For example, if an airfield with MIG aircraft requires a specific part to get an airplane back in the air to complete a mission, and this part is not currently available in their inventory, they would report this item as MICAP to expedite its acquisition. Similarly, if a confirmed surface-to-air missile (SAM) site or a Possible SAM site needs critical components to maintain operational status, these would also be categorized as MICAP. Furthermore, Support facilities for processing equipment, which are essential for maintaining and supporting these assets, may require MICAP items to continue operations without interruption.