ADP-3-19 FIRES Warfighting Function Download
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Chapter 3 3-8 ADP 3-19 31 July 2019 Detect 3-44. Detect is the second function in targeting and occurs initially during the prepare portion of the operations process, continuing throughout the operation. A key resource for fires planning and targeting is the intelligence generated through information collection to answer the targeting information requirements. Commanders express requirements for target detection and action as priority intelligence and information requirements. During large-scale combat operations, it might be challenging to prioritize the detection of targets and could require the opening of windows of opportunity for specific collection capabilities in support of fires. High-payoff targets must be integrated and support associated priority intelligence requirements. Their priority depends on the importance of the target to the friendly course of action and target acquisition requirements. Targets are prioritized through a quantitative and qualitative valuation methodology. An example of a valuation methodology is the target value analysis process that prioritizes targets based on the target’s criticality, accessibility, recuperability, vulnerability, effect, and recognizability. Targeting working groups incorporate priority intelligence and information requirements that support acquisition of high-payoff targets into the overall information collection plan along with named areas of interest, target areas of interest, and engagement areas. 3-45. The detect function continues during the execution of the operations process. Target acquisition assets acquire on-call targets and report their locations back to their controlling HQ for target validation. Validated targets are then engaged by the appropriate agency as determined by the attack guidance matrix. Some collection assets provide actual targets, while other assets must have their information processed to produce valid targets. The target priorities developed in the decide step are used to expedite the processing of targets. Target tracking is imperative because situations arise where the attack, upon location and identification of a target, is either impossible (for example, out of range) or undesirable (outside of but moving toward an advantageous location for the attack). Track critical targets that cannot be attacked or that they choose not to attack in accordance with the attack guidance to ensure they are not lost. Tracking suspected targets expedites execution of the attack guidance and keeps them in view while under validation. Planners and executers must keep in mind that assets used for target tracking may be unavailable for target acquisition. As targets are validated, task appropriate weapon systems in accordance with the attack guidance and location requirements of the system. Deliver 3-46. Deliver is the third function in targeting and occurs primarily during the execution portion of the operations process. The main objective is to engage targets in accordance with the commander's guidance or engagement authority's direction. The selection of a weapon system or a combination of weapons systems leads to the tactical decision of time of engagement and then the technical solution for the selected weapon. 3-47. Targeting products approved during the decide function of the targeting process simplify and expedite fires delivery decisions during the deliver function. The Target Synchronization Matrix aligns targets with their planned detection assets, planned delivery platform, and method of assessment. The high-payoff target list offers a prioritized list of targets by category. The attack guidance matrix aligns target types with delivery platforms to expedite the engagement of targets of opportunity. Lastly, the Target Selection Standards offers criteria for target engagement, such as, target size, disposition, and target decay times. Assess 3-48. Assess is the fourth function of targeting and occurs throughout the operations process. The commander and staff assess the results of mission execution. The assessment process is continuous and directly tied to the commander's decisions throughout planning, preparation, and execution of operations. Staffs help the commander by monitoring the numerous aspects that can influence the outcome of operations and provide the commander timely information needed for decisions. The following are key considerations in assessment: Assess the results of mission execution. Targeting must continue to focus on the target(s) involved if assessment reveals that the commander's guidance has not been met. This feedback may result in changes to original decisions made during the target selection.