ATP-5-0-2-1 Staff Reference Guide Volume 1 Download
Page 137 of 440
Planning 07 December 2020 ATP 5-0.2-1 121 advantageous location for an attack). An example of the latter is repositioning of threat ADA systems from outside of weapon systems range to within. Critical targets that friendly forces cannot or choose not to attack, in accordance with attack guidance, should be tracked to ensure they are not lost. Tracking suspected targets expedites execution of the attack guidance. Tracking suspected targets keeps them in view while they are validated. Planners and executers must keep in mind that assets used for target tracking may be unavailable for target acquisition. 2-372. Detect is the next critical function in the targeting process. The intelligence officer is the main figure in directing the effort to detect HPTs identified in the decide function. To identify specific who, what, when, and how for target acquisition, the intelligence officer works closely with the following: Analysis and control element. Field artillery unit intelligence officer. Targeting officer or fire support officer. Space support element. 2-373. Targets are detected and tracked by maximizing use of available assets. The intelligence officer focuses intelligence acquisition efforts on designated HPTs and PIRs. The collection manager considers the availability and capability of all collection assets. 2-374. Intelligence factors of the operational environment that affect the populace require particular attention. Such intelligence is important for developing political, social, and economic programs. Intelligence personnel continuously analyze large quantities of all-source intelligence reporting to determine— Threat validity. Actual importance of potential targets. Best means to engage the target. Expected effects of engaging the targets (which will guide actions to mitigate negative effects). Detection Procedures 2-375. HPTs must be detected in a timely, accurate manner. Clear and concise tasks must be given to reconnaissance units or surveillance systems that can detect a given target. Target tracking is inherent to detection. Mobile HPTs are detected and tracked to maintain a current target location. Tracking priorities are based on the commander's concept of the operation and targeting priorities. The fires cell tells the intelligence section the degree of accuracy required and dwell time for a target to be eligible for engagement. The intelligence section matches accuracy requirements to the target location error of collection system. If a target type and its associated signatures (for example, electronic, visual, and thermal) are known, the most capable collection asset can be directed against the target. The asset can be placed in the best position according to estimates of when and where the enemy target will be located. Deliver 2-376. The third function (which is conducted from COA comparison through execution of an operation) in targeting is "deliver." The deliver function's main objective is to attack or engage targets in accordance with a commander's guidance and attack guidance. 2-377. Engagement of targets must satisfy the engagement guidance developed in the decide function. Target engagement requires several decisions and actions that fall into two categories: tactical and technical. Tactical decisions determine— Time of the engagement. Desired effect, degree of damage, or both. Asset to be used. Potential for collateral damage. These decisions result in the physical engagement of the target (see ATP 3-60 for more detail on tactical decisions).