AFDD 2-1.9, page 56

46 CHAPTER THREE DYNAMIC TARGETING GENERAL “Dynamic targeting” is a term that applies to all targeting prosecuted outside of a given day’s preplanned ATO targets. It represents the targeting portion of the “execution” phase of effects-based operations. It is essential for commanders and CAOC personnel to keep effects-based principles and the objectives in mind during dynamic targeting and ATO execution. It is easy for those caught up in the daily battle rhythm to become too focused on tactical-level details, losing sight of objectives and desired effects or other aspects of commander’s intent. When this happens, execution can devolve into blind target servicing, unguided by strategy and with little or no anticipation of enemy actions. Dynamic targeting is different from deliberate targeting in terms of the timing of the steps in the process, but not much different in the substance of the steps. Ultimately, “dynamic” targets are targets—as such, their nomination, development, execution, and assessment still take place within the larger framework of the targeting and tasking cycles. However, all targets processed during the current execution cycle have one thing in common: they are “time-sensitive” to some degree or have increased in priority due to battlespace changes. Some, indeed, are fleeting and require near-immediate prosecution if they are to be targeted at all. Such targets require a procedure that can be worked through quickly and that facilitates quick transition from receipt of intelligence through targeting solution to action against the target. Recent operations have indicated that this compressed decision cycle is best handled through a specialized sub- process, known as the dynamic targeting procedure. Seen from the larger cycle’s perspective, dynamic targeting takes place within phases five (“execution planning and force execution”) and six (“assessment”) of the targeting and tasking cycles. The earlier phases serve to provide commanders’ targeting guidance and determine CONOPS for making the resources that will prosecute dynamic targeting available. The combat operations division has overall responsibility for implementation of dynamic targeting. Successful dynamic targeting, however, requires a great deal of prior planning and coordination with other divisions within the CAOC and with other components. If dynamic targeting is to be done correctly, planners must develop a plan When the strike of a hawk breaks the body of its prey, it is because of timing. Thus the momentum of one skilled in war is overwhelming and his attack prompt. —Sun Tzu