Ch. 7: Targeting Integration and Methodology

Targeting Integration

• Targeting is selecting and prioritizing targets, matching the appropriate response, considering operational requirements and capabilities (JP 3-0).
• Information Operations (IO) is integrated into the targeting cycle, producing effects via the information environment to support objectives.
• The targeting cycle facilitates the engagement of the right target with the right asset at the right time. The IO officer or representative is part of the targeting team and responsible to the commander and staff for all IO aspects.

Targeting Methodology

• Army targeting uses four functions: Decide, Detect, Deliver, and Assess (D3A).
• The Decide function occurs concurrently with planning.
• The Detect function occurs during preparation and execution.
• The Deliver function occurs primarily during execution, with some IO targets engaged during preparation.
• The Assess function occurs throughout the process.
• The targeting process is cyclical, with the command's battle rhythm determining targeting working group meeting frequency.
• The IO officer and IO working group develop IO-related target nominations.
• The IO working group validates IO-related targets before they are nominated to the targeting working group, always scheduled prior.

Decide

• The decide function is part of the planning activity of the operations process.
• Targeting team focuses and sets priorities for intelligence collection and attack planning.
• Commander's intent and concept of operations guide targeting priorities for each phase/critical event of the operation.
• Key products include: High-payoff target list, Information collection plan, Target selection standards, Attack guidance matrix, and Target synchronization matrix.
• High-payoff targets (HPTs) are high-value targets (HVTs) whose loss significantly contributes to the success of friendly actions, focusing on threat command and control nodes and intelligence collection.
• The information collection plan synchronizes four means of information collection, ensured by the G-3/S-3 (with staff coordination) and the G-2/S-2 ensuring all collection assets supply the needed information. IO requirements may have longer lead times.

Other Important Aspects

• Target selection standards establish criteria for when attacks are appropriate.
• Attack guidance matrices specify how/when targets are engaged & desired effects (ranging from asset destruction to changed behavior).
• Target synchronization matrices list HPTs, outlining responsible agencies for detection, attack, and assessment.
• Targeting guidance, separate from IO objectives (which are broader in scope and encompass attack, defend, and stabilization efforts), guides IO officers to select relevant HPTs based on available and anticipated IRCs.
• Mission Analysis involves identifying IO-related HVTs and developing targeting guidance recommendations.
• Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield (IPB) includes threat force templates, adjustments based on environment, and the identification of threat information capabilities/vulnerabilities to identify HVTs.
• Target value analysis prioritizes targets based on their contribution to friendly objectives and adversary COAs, using spreadsheets and target sheets.
• Deconflicting/Coordinating Targets ensures the attack of any target doesn't interfere with others or inhibit mission accomplishment.

Other Methodologies

• Other targeting methodologies exist to address various missions and units, including Find, Fix, Track, Target, Engage, Assess and Find, Fix, Finish, Exploit, Analyze, and Disseminate.
• Dynamic targeting addresses targets identified too late or not selected for deliberate targeting, focusing on time-sensitive targets.
• The D3A method, also known as Decide, Detect, Deliver, Assess, is used for deliberate targeting, complementing other potential targeting methodologies. An analysis of the need for re-engagement is part of the assessment.

Explore the key concepts of targeting integration and methodology in military operations. This quiz covers the targeting cycle, the role of Information Operations, and the four functions of Army targeting: Decide, Detect, Deliver, and Assess. Assess your understanding of these fundamental processes and principles.