What defines a high-value target (HVT)?

A high-value target (HVT) is defined as a target that is critical for the enemy's mission success. This encompasses assets or personnel whose loss would significantly impact the enemy's operational effectiveness and ability to achieve their objectives. By prioritizing HVTs, military and strategic planners focus their efforts on targets that will yield the greatest effect on the overall conflict, thereby enhancing their own operational success.

The rationale behind targeting HVTs is rooted in strategic planning, where eliminating key enemies or their resources can disrupt their plans and operations. The identification of HVTs is based on analyzing the enemy's capabilities, strategies, and resources to ensure that attacks have maximum impact. This approach helps in allocating resources effectively and achieving a decisive advantage in military operations.