Joint publications provide guidance for military services to use while preparing?

Joint publications are essential documents created by the Department of Defense that establish the standards for the planning and execution of joint operations among the various military services. These publications provide comprehensive guidance on a range of topics essential for effective collaboration and coordinated efforts between different branches of the military.

The primary function of joint publications is to aid military services in preparing appropriate joint operations plans. Such plans encompass strategies for operational and tactical execution that can be applied across multiple service branches, ensuring unity of command and effort during joint missions. The guidance featured in these documents includes best practices, standard operating procedures, and established protocols that are vital for successful joint operations.

In contrast, the other options focus on specific contexts that are not the primary intent of joint publications. Doctrinal guidance for a host nation or assistance during domestic emergencies pertains to specialized support roles, while Secretary of the Air Force guidance would target more specific directives that are not necessarily joint in nature. Thus, the correct answer emphasizes the main purpose of joint publications in facilitating organized and successful joint operations planning.