JP 3-60, page 27

Understanding Targets and Targeting I-9 c. High-Value and High-Payoff Targets. An HVT is a target that the enemy commander requires for the successful completion of the mission. HPTs are derived from the list of HVTs. The loss of HVTs would be expected to seriously degrade important enemy functions throughout the friendly commander’s area of interest. An HPT is one whose loss to the enemy will significantly contribute to the success of the friendly course of action (COA). Time-sensitive and component-critical targets are usually special types of HPTs. Component and JFC target development and priorities will focus on these targets to support success of the mission. d. Time-Sensitive Target (TST). A TST is a JFC-validated target or set of targets of such high importance to the accomplishment of the JFC’s mission and objectives, or that presents such a significant strategic or operational threat to friendly forces or allies, that the JFC dedicates intelligence collection and engagement assets, or is willing to divert assets away from other targets in order to F2T2EA it. (1) TSTs comprise a very small or limited number of targets due to the required investment of assets and potential disruption of planned execution, and are only those targets validated by the JFC and listed as such in the CONOPS. (2) In most cases, TSTs require immediate response because they pose (or will soon pose) a direct danger to friendly forces and/or noncombatants, or are highly lucrative, fleeting targets of opportunity. TSTs are normally engaged dynamically; however, to be successful, they require considerable deliberate planning and preparation within the joint targeting cycle. (3) The JFC provides specific guidance and priorities for TSTs within the OA. Examples might be a vessel carrying WMD that was just detected approaching the joint force; a sought-after enemy leader whose location was just identified; an enemy aircraft detected approaching friendly high-value assets; or launch of an intermediate-range ballistic missile. Only the JFC may validate a target or set of targets as a TST. (4) A JFC validates targets or a set of targets based on criteria established during phase 1 of the joint targeting cycle. Targets or a set of targets that the JFC has not specifically named, but still satisfy TST characteristics, may be engaged through dynamic targeting. Although these targets or sets of targets may be critical to the components due to risk to mission or forces, they are not listed separately from guidance and priorities previously established for TSTs. e. Component-Critical Targets. Component commanders may nominate targets to the JFC for consideration as TSTs. If they meet TST criteria, but are not approved as TSTs by the JFC, these component-critical targets may still require dynamic execution with cross- component coordination and assistance in a time-compressed fashion. The JFC and component commanders should identify these targets within the joint targeting cycle; provide clear guidance to develop and approve the appropriate priority of asset allocation (intelligence collection, exploitation, and attack assets); and provide ROE to facilitate rapid cross-component coordination in order to minimize confusion and facilitate prosecution.