The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-forty-sixth episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.’ Hosted by MAJ Marc Howle, the Brigade Senior Engineer / Protection OCT for Brigade Command & Control (BDE HQ), on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today’s guests are subject matter experts across JRTC: CW3 Michael Horrace is the Senior Targeting OCT, MAJ Edward Pecoraro is the BDE S-2 Intelligence Officer-in-Charge OCT, and MSG Randell Conway is the BDE S-2 Intelligence Noncommissioned Officer-in-Charge for BC2.

This episode explores the relationship between intelligence, fires, and the targeting process, centered on the question of whether intelligence has become overly focused on targeting at the expense of broader situational understanding. The discussion highlights that while targeting is a critical function—especially in a sensor-rich, time-compressed battlefield—intelligence must first and foremost enable decision-making and understanding of the operational environment, not just feed the fires enterprise. Overemphasis on target production can lead to a narrow focus on high-payoff targets while neglecting the development of a holistic enemy picture, including disposition, capabilities, and intent. The episode reinforces that effective intelligence drives both maneuver and fires, not just the latter.

The conversation also emphasizes the need to rebalance intelligence efforts through disciplined integration within MDMP and continuous refinement via running estimates. Best practices include aligning collection with commander’s critical information requirements (CCIRs), ensuring IPOE/SPOE is thorough and continuously updated, and maintaining a clear linkage between intelligence assessments and decision points—not just target lists. Additionally, the targeting process is framed as a commander-driven, staff-enabled function that requires synchronization across warfighting functions, rather than being owned solely by fires or intelligence sections. Ultimately, success depends on maintaining a balance: leveraging intelligence to enable precise and timely targeting, while preserving its primary role in building shared understanding and informing operational decisions across the formation.

Part of S13 “Hip Pocket Training” series.

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“The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.