What is the purpose of Collateral Damage Estimation (CDE) in targeting?

• A. To estimate enemy strengths and compute resource expenditure.
• B. To anticipate and mitigate civilian casualties and property damage, guiding target selection and engagement methods.
• C. To determine weather effects on targeting.
• D. To maximize firepower regardless of civilian impact.

Answer: (B)

Collateral Damage Estimation is about predicting and reducing harm to civilians and civilian property when planning a strike, so the way a target is selected and the method of engagement reflect acceptable risk. It involves assessing potential civilian casualties, property damage, and disruption to nearby infrastructure, then using that information to shape how, when, and with what approach the attack is carried out. This helps commanders decide whether to proceed, adjust the target or timing, switch to a different method or munitions, or cancel the strike entirely, all to stay within legal and ethical obligations and improve mission success by avoiding unacceptable collateral harm. The other options don’t fit because CDE isn’t about estimating enemy strength or resources, weather effects, or simply maximizing firepower regardless of civilian impact.