JP 3-60, page 43

The Joint Targeting Cycle II-13 2. Restricted. A restricted target is a valid target that has specific restrictions placed on the actions authorized against it due to operational considerations. Actions that exceed specified restrictions are prohibited until coordinated and approved by the establishing headquarters. Attacking restricted targets may interfere with projected friendly operations. Targets may have certain specific restrictions associated with them that should be clearly documented in the ETF (for example, do not strike during daytime, strike only with a certain weapon). When targets are restricted from lethal attacks, commanders should consider nonlethal capabilities as a means to achieve or support the commander’s objectives. However, use of nonlethal capabilities in targeting should not be limited to the case where lethal capability use is restricted. For additional information, see Appendix A, “Legal Considerations in Targeting,” and CJCSI 3370.01, Target Development Standards. (8) Target Nomination for Prioritization, Synchronization, and Action. Once potential targets are identified, researched, developed, vetted, and validated, they are nominated by component commanders, national agencies, supporting commands, and the JFC’s staff and placed onto TNLs. The TNLs are compiled into a draft JIPTL, coordinated with the components, and submitted to the JFC for approval. Once approved, the list is transmitted to all components and appropriate agencies as the JFC’s JIPTL, which focuses targeting efforts for a designated time period. For more detailed guidance and discussion on target development, see CJCSI 3370.01, Target Development Standards. e. Phase 3—Capabilities Analysis (1) This phase of the joint targeting cycle involves evaluating all available capabilities against targets’ critical elements to determine the appropriate options available to the commander for target engagement while highlighting the best possible solution under given circumstances. Its purpose is to weigh the relative effectiveness and efficiency of the available forces as an aid to achieving the objectives set forth by the JFC and subordinate commanders through target engagement. Commanders also consider risks to the force and no-strike entities in evaluating available capabilities. Estimates of required weapons or capabilities shape other planning considerations within the joint force. For example, weapons requirements will drive significant portions of theater logistics planning efforts. The capabilities analysis and force assignment phases of the joint targeting cycle are closely related. The primary purpose of capabilities analysis is to maximize the employment efficiency of forces through application of enough force to create the desired effects while minimizing collateral damage and waste of resources. Estimates of the effectiveness of available forces and/or systems against various proposed targeting options assist in the apportionment process and in subordinate component commanders force assignment decisions. Capabilities analysis is comprised of four steps: (a) Target Vulnerability Analysis. Building on the critical target elements identified in phase 2, target vulnerability analysis reveals all aspects of the target that, if engaged, would result in a reduction in the target’s ability to perform its function for the adversary.