Which function is primarily responsible for overseeing the targeting effort?

The function primarily responsible for overseeing the targeting effort is the commander. Commanders play a critical leadership role in operational planning and execution, including the targeting process. They provide guidance and make decisions that align with the overall mission objectives, ensuring that all targeting actions support the commander's intent and the desired outcomes of the operation. Their understanding of the operational environment and the priorities of the mission allows them to allocate resources appropriately and adjust targeting as necessary based on evolving situations on the battlefield. This decision-making authority establishes the commander as the key figure in overseeing and coordinating the targeting efforts effectively.

In contrast, the operations staff, while involved in planning and coordinating operational activities, typically act under the guidance of the commander rather than oversee the targeting itself. The intelligence officer provides essential information and analysis, contributing to targeting efforts but does not have overarching authority. Similarly, the fire support team focuses on the execution of fire missions rather than the broader strategic oversight of targeting efforts. This delineation of roles underlines why the commander is the central figure in overseeing the targeting process.