The SoS (system-of-systems) nature of modern warfare necessitated in-depth research into SoSE (system-of-systems engineering), at the meso-level, mission-oriented operational SoS design gradually emerged as a critical yet challenging focus within SoSE. Drawing on foundational studies in system general design and SoSE, this paper explored through three dimensions: current state of the art, research frameworks, and future directions. First, based on the systems engineering design process model, this paper reviewed and synthesized domestic and international advances in SoSE technologies across five stages: requirements analysis, solution design, simulation experiments, alternative evaluation, and solution optimization. Building upon this review, a research framework for top-level SoSE design was constructed from the dual perspectives of knowledge domains and business workflow. Finally, the study examined the development trends through a synthesis of successful frontier fruits in related areas. The study systematically consolidates the research framework and technical approaches for SoSE oriented toward general design, contributing to the formation of a research community in SoS general design and fostering coordinated, collaborative advancement of related technologies.