jp3_12r

Planning and Coordination
c. Targeting. The purpose of targeting is to integrate and synchronize fires (the use of
available weapon systems to create a specific lethal or nonlethal effect on a target) into joint
operations. Targeting is the process of selecting and prioritizing targets and matching the
appropriate response to them, considering operational requirements and capabilities. The
overall joint targeting cycle and target development process are described in JP 3-60, Joint
Targeting. However, three aspects of CO should be included in the JFC’s targeting
processes: recognizing that cyberspace capabilities are a viable option for engaging
designated joint targets; understanding that a CO option may be preferable in some cases;
and first, second, and third order effects on joint targets may involve or affect elements of the
DODIN. Additionally, there are some characteristics unique to cyberspace targets and
cyberspace capabilities that are described below.
For additional information on joint targeting, see JP 3-60, Joint Targeting.
(1) Characteristics of Targets in Cyberspace. Every target has distinct intrinsic
or acquired characteristics. These characteristics form the basis for target detection, location,
identification, target value within the adversary target system, and classification for future
surveillance, analysis, strike, and assessment. As discussed in Chapter I, “Introduction,”
cyberspace can be viewed as consisting of three layers: physical network, logical network,
and cyber-persona. The challenge in targeting is to identify, coordinate, and deconflict
multiple activities occurring across multiple layers.
(a) The physical network layer is the medium where the data travels. It
includes wired (land and submarine cable) and wireless (radio, radio-relay, cellular, satellite)
transmission means. It is the first point of reference for determining jurisdiction and
application of authorities. It is also the primary layer for geospatial intelligence, which can
also contribute useful targeting data in cyberspace.
(b) The logical network layer constitutes an abstraction of the physical
network layer, depicting how nodes in the physical dimension of the information
environment logically relate to one another to form entities in cyberspace. The logical
network layer is the first point where the connection to the physical dimension of the
information environment is lost.
(c) The cyber-persona layer, an individual’s or groups’ online identity(ies),
holds important implications for joint forces in terms of positive target identification and
affiliation, and activity attribution. Because cyber-personas can be complex, with elements
in many virtual locations, but normally not linked to a single physical location or form,
significant intelligence collection and analysis capabilities are required for the joint forces to
gain sufficient insight and SA of a cyber-persona to enable effective targeting and creation of
the JFC’s desired effects.
(2) Characteristics of Cyberspace Capabilities. Cyberspace capabilities must
operate and create effects within the complex and ever-changing systems in cyberspace;
however, they are each developed with certain environmental assumptions and expectations
about the operating conditions that will be found in the target environment. The extent to
which the expected environmental conditions of a cyberspace target cannot be confirmed
IV-3