AFDP 3-60, page 16

Air Force Doctrine Publication 3-60, Targeting 13 controlling operations. The J-3 typically synchronizes and integrates joint operations via a joint operations center (JOC) and may serve as the chair of the JTCB. The J-3 can also organize and serve as the chair for the joint fires element (JFE) if the JFC approves this optional staff element. The air component A3 staff should integrate into J-3 and JFE processes.21 Other JFC staff organizations. The air component should integrate with counterparts across the JFC staff. The J-4 logistics directorate can provide guidance about critical munition supplies and expenditure rates. The J-5 plans directorate can identify changes to future, long-range planning efforts. The JFC’s SJA can provide interpretations of host nation, ROE, and LoW issues. The JFC public affairs advisor can provide public perception of target prosecution and any detrimental second- or third-order effects. Information planners can provide input on tasks related to the targeting process.22 AIR COMPONENT ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES The targeting responsibilities of the air component commander are assigned by the JFC. As the air component facilitator for servicing all targets nominated for airpower effects, the air component commander establishes a targeting process to meet the needs of the JFC and other components within the joint force. The air component commander provides a robust staff and an extensive command and control (C2) capability to facilitate targeting. AIR COMPONENT STAFF Within the Commander Air Force Forces (COMAFFOR) role, the air component commander has a staff to facilitate the targeting process. The AFFOR staff, in coordination with the AOC, supports USAF requirements and integrates air component capabilities into the JFC’s planning and targeting processes. Some air components keep their AFFOR staff separate from the AOC, but some integrate their AOC into the AFFOR staff. For example, some air components have subordinated the AOC to the A3. 21 For additional information on the J-3 and JFE, see JP 3-09, Joint Fires. 22 For additional information on the responsibilities of the JFC and JFC staff, see JP 3-60, Joint Targeting. Joint Fires Element (JFE) If the JFC does not delegate the authority for joint target planning, coordination, and deconfliction to the JFACC, and approves the formation of a JFE, the air component needs to ensure linkages to this organization. The JFE will integrate and synchronize fires planning and coordination and is composed of representatives from the J-3, the components (land, maritime, air, and special ops), elements of the JFC’s staff and directorates, representatives from space and cyberspace operations, interagency partners and the intelligence community, and closely tied to the JFC J-2 for execution of the joint targeting process. The JFE will be key for JIPTL management and JTCB collaboration with the J-2.