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PART 4

PRODUCTS OF THE TARGETING PROCESS

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Upon completion of the targeting meeting, the XO, S-3, S-2 and FSO brief the commander on the results of the targeting meeting. Once the results of the targeting meeting are approved several products are updated, written, and reproduced for distribution. This must be accomplished quickly, allowing sufficient time for subordinate units to react, plan, rehearse, and execute.

The timing of the targeting meeting is critical.. It must be effectively integrated into the brigade's battle rhythm to ensure that the results of the targeting process focuses, rather than disrupt operations. A successful technique is to conduct the brigade targeting meeting immediately following the commander's A.M. update, with all products, to include the fragmentary order issued to the battalion task forces by midday. This allows the battalion task forces to incorporate guidance and taskings from brigade into their targeting meeting conducted mid to late afternoon. This enables them to issue orders to their companies, conduct rehearsals, pre-combat checks and execute within the designated time period.

Targeting meeting products are:

• The updated target synchronization matrix. This matrix specifies what high payoff targets the commander has decided to attack, how the target will be detected, what lethal or non-lethal system will deliver on the target, and how to assess the damage done.

• The most important products resulting from a targeting meeting are translating the target synchronization matrix into taskings to subordinate units and assets. The S-3 should prepare and issue a FRAGO to subordinate elements to execute the planned attack and assessment of targets developed in the targeting meeting. The S-2 reorients his acquisition assets and updates and disseminates the collection or R&S plan. Each staff member should confirm that subordinate elements receive taskings as a result of the targeting meeting and confirm that these tasks are executed.

CONCLUSION

The targeting process is one of the single most important events to integrate, synchronize and focus combat power. It requires command emphasis and the full and effective integration of all battlefield operating systems. It must be effectively integrated into the unit's battle rhythm. It is not just a wartime function. This process must be exercised before battle if it is to be effective. The members of the targeting team must be familiar with their roles and the roles of other team members. That familiarity can only be acquired through staff training.

Table of Contents
The Targeting Process, Part 3: The Targeting Meeting
Fire Support Annex Briefing