What aspect of readiness involves checking the condition of equipment?

The correct choice focuses on the concept of equipment condition, which is a crucial aspect of readiness. Checking the condition of equipment ensures that all tools, machinery, and devices are functional and ready for deployment or operations. This evaluation helps identify any maintenance needs or potential failures, allowing for repairs or replacements before they impact overall mission success.

Personnel readiness pertains to the training and preparedness of the individuals who will operate the equipment, but it does not specifically address the physical state of the equipment itself. Resource allocation involves the distribution of available resources, including personnel and materials, but does not directly relate to assessing the equipment's condition. Mission planning is about strategizing and organizing the operation or task at hand rather than checking the physical readiness of the tools used.

Thus, recognizing that equipment's condition is essential to ensuring operational effectiveness makes it clear why it is the correct aspect of readiness to focus on regarding the state of equipment prior to missions.