What process do commanders apply to unit training and leader development?

The operations process is the correct choice because it is a framework that commanders use to plan, execute, and assess operations, including unit training and leader development. The operations process encompasses several steps: planning, preparation, execution, and assessment, which help leaders effectively manage and develop their units.

This approach ensures that training aligns with the unit's mission and goals, and it provides a systematic way to evaluate the results of training activities. By integrating training with the broader operations framework, commanders can ensure that their teams are prepared to perform in real-world scenarios, thereby enhancing readiness and effectiveness.

Other concepts, such as the training cycle, are indeed related to training but do not encompass the comprehensive approach taken in the operations process. The mission planning process focuses specifically on preparing for a particular operation rather than ongoing training and development. The assessment strategy is more about evaluating performance rather than guiding the overall training and development process. Thus, the operations process is the most holistic and applicable method for commanders to enhance unit training and leader development.