Which set correctly lists the three primary target effects used by fires?

• A. Destruction, Neutralization, and Suppression
• B. Destruction, Containment, and Denial
• C. Suppression, Neutralization, and Reconnaissance
• D. Destruction, Disruption, and Avoidance

Answer: (A)

Fires are aimed at achieving specific outcomes on the target, called target effects. The three primary target effects are destruction, neutralization, and suppression. Destruction means permanently removing the target’s combat capability—basically taking it out of the fight by destroying essential systems or structures. Neutralization is the temporary or reversible crippling of the target’s ability to operate, reducing its effectiveness for a period without necessarily destroying it. Suppression diminishes the target’s ability to act by forcing it to withdraw or reduce its tempo, often through the shock of fire or the need to take cover, so it cannot influence the battle for a time.

This set is correct because it encompasses the main, universally used outcomes that fires seek to produce: a permanent loss of capability, a temporary but significant disablement, or a suppressive impact that limits the target’s ability to respond. Other terms like containment, denial, disruption, or reconnaissance describe different concepts or outcomes not recognized as the three primary target effects of fires.