AFDP 3-60, page 3

Air Force Doctrine Publication 3-60, Targeting i FOREWORD Doctrine embodies the fundamental principles by which military forces guide their actions in support of national objectives. It is a body of carefully developed authoritative ideas that establishes a common frame of reference for solving military problems. Airmen today are serving in a time of consequence marked by the rapid evolution of the character of war and increasingly formidable competitors challenging our freedom of maneuver and freedom of action. The United States Air Force (USAF) should advance solutions to deter, compete, and win by focusing on readiness and lethality. Air Force Doctrine Publication (AFDP) 3-60, Targeting, though firmly rooted in existing best practices, also looks to the future, adapting where needed to enable continued warfighting effectiveness. Targeting links ends, ways, means, and risk to ensure appropriate responses are aligned to operational objectives. The targeting process is informed by planning, intelligence, and the air tasking cycle, ensuring alignment between operational objectives and the employment of airpower. This updated version of AFDP 3-60, Targeting, provides Airmen with a shared understanding of targeting as a process and its importance in the modern battlespace. It outlines the fundamental principles and framework that guide the planning and execution of targeting. This publication also provides an overview of organizations with targeting responsibilities and air component-level processes for deconflicting and integrating target nominations and engagements across the joint force. AFDP 3-60 serves as a vital tool for Airmen at the operational level, equipping them with the knowledge to synthesize targeting processes across the spectrum of conflict-from deterrence and competition to large-scale combat operations. Throughout history, innovative Airmen have developed methods to meet operational requirements. The airman’s perspective is fundamental to targeting due to airpower’s ability to create effects across both the theater and globe. This doctrine reinforces the USAF’s ability to prevail amid complex challenges.