What factor is NOT included in the Operational Environment influence?

In the context of the Operational Environment, factors such as terrain and weather are critical components that significantly influence military operations and planning. Terrain affects movement, positioning, and visibility, while weather conditions can impact everything from visibility to operational effectiveness and weapons systems performance.

Astronomical data, which includes elements such as the positioning of celestial bodies and time of day, also plays a role in planning and executing operations, particularly in terms of navigation and timing for attacks or other maneuvers.

However, government policies are generally not classified as a direct influence on the operational environment in the same way that physical and environmental factors are. While policies may guide strategic decisions and can indirectly affect operations, they do not fall within the immediate and tangible factors that shape the operational environment on the ground. Therefore, government policies are recognized as a less direct influence compared to the other listed factors.