JP 3-0, page 75
Joint Operations
Joint Publication: Joint Operations
11 August 2011 public edition
Searchable page text (OCR / PDF)
Joint Functions
III-23
objective. For more guidance on assessment, refer to paragraph 6, “Assessment,” of Chapter
II, “The Art of Joint Command.”
b. Key Considerations. The following are key considerations associated with the
above tasks.
(1) Targeting supports the process of linking the desired effects of fires to actions
and tasks at the component level. Commanders and their staffs must consider strategic and
operational objectives, the potential for fratricide and other undesired fires effects, and legal
limitations (e.g., constraints and restraints) when making targeting decisions. Successful
integration of IO considerations into the targeting process is important to mission
accomplishment in many operations.
(a) Oversight. JFCs may task their staff to accomplish broad targeting
oversight functions or may delegate the responsibility to a subordinate commander.
Typically, JFCs organize joint targeting coordination boards (JTCBs). If the JFC so
designates, a JTCB may be either an integrating center for this effort or a JFC-level review
mechanism. In either case, it should be composed of representatives from the staff, all
components and, if required, their subordinate units. The primary focus of the JTCB is to
ensure target priorities, guidance, and the associated desired results link to the JFC’s
objectives. Briefings conducted at the JTCB should focus on ensuring that all components
and applicable staff elements coordinate and synchronize targeting efforts with intelligence
and operations.
(b) Delegation of Joint Targeting Process Authority. The JFC is
responsible for all aspects of the targeting process, and may conduct joint targeting at the
joint force HQ level or authorize a component commander to do so. The JFC normally
appoints the deputy JFC or a component commander to chair the JTCB. When the JFC does
not delegate targeting authority and does not establish a JTCB, the JFC performs this task at
the joint force HQ with the assistance of the J-3. In this instance, the JFC may approve the
formation within the J-3 of a joint fires element to provide recommendations to the J-3. The
JFC ensures that this process is a joint effort involving applicable subordinate commands.
Whoever the JFC authorizes to plan, coordinate, and deconflict joint targeting must possess
or have access to a sufficient C2 infrastructure, adequate facilities, joint planning expertise,
and appropriate intelligence.
For additional targeting guidance, refer to JP 3-60, Joint Targeting.
(c) Air Apportionment. In the context of joint fires, air apportionment is part
of the targeting process. Air apportionment is how the JFACC ensures the weight of joint
force air effort is consistent with the JFC’s intent and objectives. After consulting with other
component commanders, the JFACC recommends air apportionment to the JFC, who makes
the air apportionment decision. The JFACC’s rationale for the recommendation may include
priority or percentage of effort based on the JFC’s CONOPS, specific tasks for which air
assets are essential, and other factors such as the component commanders’ joint fires
requirements. Following the JFC’s air apportionment decision, the JFACC allocates and
tasks the capabilities/forces made available.