FM 34-43: Multiservice Procedures for Requesting Reconnaissance Information in a Joint Environment

PREFACE

1. Scope

This publication explains reconnaissance and the intelligence cycle; describes reconnaissance products; and, most importantly, demonstrates how to use and prepare formats for reconnaissance requests. It also explains the reconnaissance request flow and includes appendices which explain in detail reconnaissance types, capabilities, and limitations; intelligence support to joint operations; and detailed instructions for two additional key reconnaissance request formats. To facilitate field use, full page-sized request format blanks are included (users can laminate or reproduce these formats, and their accompanying instructions, for use in mission planning guides, personal checklists, etc.).

2. Purpose

The purpose of this publication is threefold. It is designed to help users (1) employ established joint procedures, (2) better articulate reconnaissance and intelligence requirements, and (3) derive full utility from the products they receive.

3. Application

This pamphlet applies to all command levels of the Army, Marine Corps, Navy, and Air Force which are involved with requesting and receiving reconnaissance products. Although generic in nature, this publication has worldwide applicability for training, contingency, and conflict operations. It also applies to US forces participating in combined operations.

4. Implementation Plan

Participating service command offices of primary responsibility (OPRs) will review this publication, validate the information, and reference and incorporate it in service manuals, regulations, and curricula as follows:

Army. The Army will incorporate the procedures in this publication in US Army doctrine and training publications as directed by the commander, US Army Training and Doctrine Command. Distribution is in accordance with DA Form 12-11E.

Marine Corps. The Marine Corps will incorporate the procedures in this publication in US Marine Corps doctrinal and training publications as directed by the commanding general, US Marine Corps Combat Development Command. Distribution is in accordance with MCPDS.

Navy. The Navy will incorporate these procedures in US Navy doctrinal and training publications as directed by the commander, Naval Doctrine Command. Distribution is in accordance with MILSTRIP Desk Guide and NAVSOP Pub 409.

Combat Air Forces. The Air Combat Command (ACC) will incorporate the procedures in ACC doctrinal and training publications as directed by the commander, ACC. PACAF and USAFE will validate and incorporate appropriate procedures in accordance with applicable major command and other governing directives. ACC, PACAF, and USAFE distribution symbols are "F."

5. User Information

a. The TRADOC-MCCDC-NDC-ACC Air Land Sea Application (ALSA) Center developed this publication with the joint participation of the approving service commands. ALSA will review and update this publication as necessary.

b. We encourage recommended changes for improving this publication. Key your comments to the specific page and paragraph and provide a rationale for each recommendation. Send comments and recommendation directly to--

c. This publication reflects current joint and service doctrine, command and control organizations, facilities, personnel, responsibilities, and procedures. Changes in service protocol, appropriately reflected in joint and service publications, will likewise be incorporated in revisions to this document.