scope:

Allied joint publication (AJP)-3.9(B) Allied Joint Doctrine for Joint Targeting describes the roles, responsibilities, processes, and products from political/military strategic guidance and oversight inherent in the joint targeting process, joint targeting at operational-level commands, and targeting at the component command level. The procedures outlined in this document do not apply to close combat, non-conventional means, nor does it limit the exercise of self-defence by the use of necessary and proportional force, including deadly force, as provided by international law, national law and policy, to defend personnel against engagement or imminent engagement. As a result of NATO organizational changes, targeting is the responsibility of the Joint Effects Function, managed by Joint Effects Branch (JTE) at Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE).

Purpose

AJP-3.9(B) is the NATO functional doctrine for joint targeting. This doctrine focuses on, but is not restricted to, the operational level². It reflects the evolution of joint targeting to incorporate a full-spectrum approach; that is, using the entire range of capabilities (including cyberspace and space, which may be under national, and not necessarily military control, but not including non-conventional weapons) against a range of targets.

² The Joint Force Commands (JFCs) and Single Service Commands (SSCs).