Which Department of Defense risk category includes complete man-portable nonnuclear missiles and rockets that are ready to fire?

The correct answer identifies Category I of the Department of Defense risk categories, which encompasses complete man-portable nonnuclear missiles and rockets that are ready to fire. This classification reflects the highest level of risk due to the potential impact these weapons can have if they fall into the wrong hands or are misused. Weapons in Category I are treated with the most stringent security and handling requirements to mitigate risks associated with their deployment and storage.

Understanding that these weapons are fully operational emphasizes the necessity for rigorous control measures and accountability within the inventory management system, ensuring that they are only accessible to authorized personnel and used in compliance with established protocols.

Other categories, while important, refer to different types of munitions or levels of risk. Category II might include less immediately dangerous items or systems that are not fully operational, while Categories III and IV would pertain to materials or weapons with progressively lower risk profiles. This stratification enables the Department of Defense to establish effective risk management practices tailored to the specific characteristics and potential dangers of various arms and munitions.