Which step is NOT part of the Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) process?

The step of conducting aerial bombardments is not part of the Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) process. The IPB is a systematic approach to analyzing the battlefield, which includes defining the operational environment, evaluating the threat, and describing the environmental effects on operations. These steps focus on gathering and analyzing information about the terrain, weather, enemy forces, and potential impacts on mission success.

In contrast, conducting aerial bombardments is an action related to executing military operations rather than the preparatory analysis phase that defines IPB. Therefore, recognizing that IPB primarily involves intelligence gathering and assessment rather than direct combat actions is essential for understanding the process effectively.