text: _________________________________________________________________________________Chapter 6
  6-12. Commanders use all available means to seek information. The informa-
  tion requirement determines the techniques to use, such as clandestine infil-
  tration by Special-Purpose Forces (SPF) or quick mechanized reconnaissance.
  Ambushes and raids are fruitful means of gathering intelligence from prison-
  ers of war, captured documents, and equipment. Such information-gathering
  actions are generally more important than any associated damage, but there
  are exceptions. Reconnaissance must sometimes destroy high-value targets
  they find. Elements of enemy long-range fire systems, precision weapons,
  multiple rocket launchers, and forward operating sites for attack helicopters
  or ground-attack aviation are some high-priority targets.
  Timeliness
  6-13. Timely information is critical on the modern battlefield. Because of the
  high mobility of modern armies, there are frequent and sharp changes in the
  battlefield situation. As a result, information quickly becomes outdated.
  Timely reporting enables the commander to exploit temporary enemy vulner-
  abilities and windows of opportunity. He can adjust plans, using increased
  data automation to fit a dynamic battlefield.
  Camouflage, Concealment, Cover and Deception
  6-14. The OPFOR is aware that the enemy may learn a great deal about its in-
  tentions by discovering its reconnaissance plan. Therefore, OPFOR commanders
  try to conceal the scale, missions, targets, and nature of reconnaissance efforts.
  They understand it is not possible to hide the fact that reconnaissance is
  being conducted. However, they do strive to prevent the enemy from dis-
  covering where they are concentrating their main strength in the defense or
  where they are preparing to launch their main attack.
  6-15. The OPFOR can also use C3D to “paint a picture” that confirms the en-
  emy’s stereotyped views of how the OPFOR fights. By showing the enemy
  what he wants to see, the reconnaissance effort can help to establish the con-
  ditions for success during ensuing operations.
  Accuracy and Reliability
  6-16. The OPFOR uses every available means to verify the accuracy and
  reliability of reported information. A commander must base his decisions on
  accurate and timely reconnaissance information. Reconnaissance must reliably
  clarify the true enemy situation in spite of enemy C3D and counterreconnais-
  sance activities. Multiple means of acquisition help defeat enemy counterre-
  connaissance. To maximize results, the commander’s plan requires accurate
  information on the enemy’s size, location, equipment, and combat readiness.
  Accuracy is crucial to destroying high-value targets such as enemy precision
  weapons, C2, and communications.
  CHARACTERISTICS
  6-17. OPFOR reconnaissance operations are characterized by—
  • Flexibility. The OPFOR must be able to switch priorities from one
  target to another without degrading the overall mission.