Military capability is the power, capacity or ability to achieve a desired operational effect in a selected environment, and to sustain that effect for a designated period. Characteristics of military capability determine its quality as well as its ability to perform and are the combination of preparedness and the components of capability.
The components of capability are the quantitative dimension and include: Personnel, Research and Development, Infrastructure and Organisations, Concept of Operations, Information and Technology, Equipment and Logistics. These components also need to be compatible and interoperable with existing capability including those of coalition partners. When combined these components contribute to the capabilities 'preparedness' to deliver a military effect. Preparedness is a qualitative dimension and includes Readiness, Combat Viability, Deployability, and Sustainability
Background on Military Capability and the Evolution of the Defence Capability Management Framework - Ministry of Defence background paper for Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade Select Committee.