Define Target.

• A. A target is an entity that is never engaged
• B. A target is any friendly unit
• C. A target is an entity (person, place, thing) considered for possible engagement or action to alter or neutralize the function it performs for the adversary
• D. A target is only a location

Answer: (C)

A target is any entity that could be engaged to disrupt or neutralize the function it serves for the adversary. In targeting, the focus is on what role that asset plays in the enemy’s system—its capability, how critical it is, and how its removal or degradation would reduce the enemy’s effectiveness. That means targets can be people, places, equipment, networks, or activities, as long as engaging them would alter the enemy’s ability to operate. This broad view helps planners decide what to strike or otherwise influence to shape the situation, not just what looks like a traditional military objective.