AFDD 2-1.9, page 58

48 separate teams may result in unwanted isolation, impede unity of effort, and inhibit the cross-flow of information. Ideally, one joint COD team should perform targeting of all dynamic targets. Successful prosecution of targets during execution also requires well organized and well rehearsed procedures for sharing sensor data and targeting information, identifying suitable strike assets, obtaining mission approval, and rapidly deconflicting weapon employment. The reaction time between the sensor and shooter can be greatly accelerated if there are clearly articulated objectives, guidance, priorities, and intent for dynamic targeting before targets are even identified. The appropriate response for each target depends heavily on the level of conflict, the clarity of the desired outcome, and ROE. THE DYNAMIC TARGETING PORTION OF THE TASKING PROCESS Dynamic targeting includes prosecution of several categories of targets: › CFC-approved TSTs—targets of such high priority to friendly forces that the CFC designates them as requiring immediate response because they pose (or will soon pose) a danger to friendly forces or they are highly lucrative, fleeting targets of opportunity. The CFC is ultimately responsible for TST prosecution and relies upon the component commanders for conducting TST operations. › Targets that are considered crucial for success of friendly component commanders’ missions, but are not CFC-approved TSTs—for sake of convenience, these will be referred to in this chapter as “high payoff targets.” › Targets scheduled to be struck on the ATO being executed, but which have changed status in some way (such as FSCM changes). › Other targets that emerge during execution that friendly commanders deem worthy of targeting, prosecution of which will not divert resources from higher-priority targets. Each of the four categories of targets specified above is prosecuted via the same dynamic targeting portion of the tasking process—they differ only in relative priority. CID plays an important part in dynamic targeting. For prospective targets, there are essentially three levels of CID that are relevant to CAOC personnel and those tasked to carry out actions against them. At the first level, the track or entity is identified as friendly, foe, or neutral. At the next level, the prospective target’s type of platform is identified. This will aid in determining the nature of tactical action required against it and will assist in prioritizing the target. Finally, a third level entails determining the prospective target’s intent (as by its track relative to friendly forces) when possible. This will further aid in establishing the prospective target’s priority, and may sometimes entail reclassifying a target as a TST based on its potential threat to friendly forces.