In the Joint Targeting Cycle, what is the first step?

• A. Define the end state and commander's objectives.
• B. Develop proposed operations.
• C. Identify target opportunities.
• D. Assess enemy capabilities.

Answer: (A)

The first step is to define the end state and the commander's objectives, which anchors the entire targeting effort to mission goals. Establishing the desired end state and the objectives clarifies what success looks like and guides every later decision, from which targets to consider to how to measure effects. With clear objectives, you can prioritize targets that will produce the most impactful and lawful effects and ensure the targeting process aligns with the broader campaign intent and rules of engagement.

Developing proposed operations assumes you know what you’re aiming to achieve, so it wouldn’t be meaningful to shape plans without first stating the goals. Identifying target opportunities relies on understanding what outcomes you’re pursuing, which comes from the defined objectives. Assessing enemy capabilities is important, but it’s a step that informs how to achieve the objectives rather than setting the objectives themselves.