Joint Targeting: What's Still Broke?
Abstract
Joint targeting is a process that synchronizes all operational level targeting activities in support of the theater commander. The centerpiece of operational targeting is the joint targeting cycle, which is a six-step problem-solving methodology designed to derive rational targeting solutions from the theater commander's objectives and guidance. The purpose of this study is to expose the recurring deficiencies that pervade the joint targeting cycle so that meaningful steps may be undertaken to improve the process. This study analyzes the joint targeting cycle from the perspective of three distinct scenarios: (1) major theater war (DESERT STORM), (2) limited theater war (DELIBERATE FORCE), and (3) a small-scale contingency operation (DESERT STRIKE). Following a brief overview of the targeting architectures in each scenario, the investigation takes aim at the deficiencies that degraded the effectiveness of the joint targeting cycle. The evidence uncovered in the three case studies leads to the following conclusions: first, the inability to translate objectives and guidance into congruent targeting activities is a recurring deficiency within the joint targeting process; second, target analysis inadequately supports the joint targeting process; last, combat assessment does not provide meaningful and timely bomb damage assessment (BDA). Given the overwhelming military advantage the US currently enjoys, these joint targeting deficiencies, though serious, do not seem to be catastrophic. However, as the military "build down" continues to erode force structure, US military strength will become less of joint targeting deficiencies. Therefore, if the US is to preserve its military pre-eminence well into the next century, the problems that currently plague the joint targeting process must necessarily be confronted.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA391813
Entities
People
- Matt Mckeon
Organizations
- Air University