text: Chapter 2
  The Targeting Process
  In large-scale combat operations, targets in all domains are arrayed across the depth
  and breadth of the OE. These targets far exceed the number of resources available to
  acquire and create desired effects. It is paramount that higher HQ provide adequate
  guidance and must anticipate requirements subordinates may have. Targeting is a top-
  down driven process with a substantial need for bottom-up refinement. This will be
  applicable in any circumstance requiring lead time or insertion into supporting
  planning or execution cycles. The importance of what targets to attack and with what
  available capabilities must be planned and prioritized. This chapter explains how the
  Army conducts targeting using the D3A methodology.
  GENERAL TARGETING METHODOLOGY
  2-1. The targeting process provides an effective method for matching friendly force capabilities against
  enemy targets in order to achieve the commander’s desired effects to achieve the commander’s objectives.
  There are two general ways to frame the D3A methodology. During planning and the MDMP, the staff uses
  the methodology as a process to assist in product development and visualization. The methodology is applied
  to analyze commanders’ guidance in order to determine the right targets, at the right place, at the right time.
  It is used through MDMP to make these decisions and apply the required assets to create desired effects.
  Further, the methodology is discussed through developing courses of action and wargaming them. It is also
  applied to assessment requirements and the analysis needed to facilitate future decisions. As an integrating
  process during execution, the second application enables the staff to apply the targeting products (HPTL,
  TSS, AGM, intelligence collection synchronization matrix (ICSM), and TSM) to facilitate operations. The
  staff is continuously making decisions, adjusting detection methods or location, and revising delivery options
  based on changes to threat courses of action. D3A is a flexible, simple, repeatable four-function process and
  is not designed to be time constrained or rigidly sequential. Figure 2-1 is a visual depiction of the D3A
  methodology.
  Figure 2-1. Decide, detect, deliver, and assess methodology