What is the purpose of the targeting process?

• A. Integrate/synchronize fires of available capabilities to generate lethal and non-lethal effects
• B. Predict enemy movements for asset placement
• C. Schedule maintenance for weapons
• D. Coordinate with civilian authorities for deconfliction

Answer: (A)

The targeting process exists to produce the right effects at the right time by bringing together all available fires into a coordinated plan. It ties the commander’s objectives to identifying, prioritizing, and engaging targets, then synchronizing air, ground, sea, and non-kinetic assets to deliver lethal and non-lethal effects where they’re needed. This integration maximizes impact and efficiency while accounting for safety, rules of engagement, and potential collateral damage. While intelligence and deconfliction considerations run through targeting, its main purpose is to coordinate fires across capabilities to achieve the desired mission effect.