The total defence's overall plan consists of a number of civilian and military plans at tactical, operational and strategic levels.
Examples of this are the National Emergency Response System (NBS), the Host Country Support Concept and the Armed Forces' operational plans (the "Guard series").
In order for total defence to function as a national concept, it is a prerequisite that the various plans are harmonised, relevant and used in exercises. It is essential that civilian authorities are involved and contribute to the Armed Forces' work on their plans, and vice versa. This is demanding continuous work that involves all sectors and levels.
By virtue of its coordination role, the DSB has a special responsibility for contributing to the coordination of civil planning and ensuring the coordination of underlying plans for the national emergency preparedness system.