AFDP 3-60, page 28

Air Force Doctrine Publication 3-60, Targeting 25 Execution planning includes the detailed preparation conducted by combat units after receipt of the ATO to enable decentralized execution. Targeting products created in previous stages become the primary references distributed to the unit level for execution planning, including coordinating and deconflicting changes to targeting information with tasked units. Force execution refers to the timeframe within which an ATO is executed by combat units (typically 24 hours). During force execution, targets are engaged and effects are created. During this stage, the AOC is the focal point for changes to the ATO and serves as the centralized control node for tasking joint air capabilities and forces. The AOC’s Combat Operations Division (COD) supervises the detailed execution of the ATO. Targeteers in the COD should be aware of all significant information on the current ATO, including targets, desired effects and objectives, guidance, ROE, weaponeering, and CDEs. Targeteers monitor ATO execution and recommend alternate targets when necessary. During force execution, the OE changes due to factors such as weather fluctuations and the enemy response to friendly actions. The senior intelligence duty officer (SIDO) in the COD monitors the enemy during execution and provides further support via analysis, collection management, targeting, and assessment. Because of these dynamic factors in the OE, the air component commander may adjust planned operations and coordinate the redirection of specific sorties with the affected component commanders. The dynamic targeting portion of the JTC is established to facilitate this process. The offensive operations team of the COD, led by the senior offensive duty officer (SODO), typically includes a dynamic targeting cell that coordinates the air component's dynamic targeting process. The DT cell integrates and synchronizes assets for all targets of opportunity and contributes to the deliberate planning and dynamic execution of on- call targets, as well as potential reattacks on planned targets. The dynamic targeting process will be discussed in the next section of this chapter. STAGE 6: ASSESSMENT Assessment is a continuous process that measures the overall effectiveness of employing joint force capabilities during military operations and is one of the four major C2 activities.36 It is also the determination of the progress made toward accomplishing a task, creating a condition, or achieving an objective.37 It helps answer basic questions that link performance and effects, such as:  “Are we doing the right things?”  “Are we doing things, right?”  “Are we measuring the right things?” Assessment is interwoven throughout the planning and execution stages. From the air 36 For additional information on four major C2 activities and assessment, see AFDP 3-0.1, Command and Control. 37 See JP 3-0, Joint Operations, for additional information.