Direct Action Flashcards
What is the definition of Direct Action?
Short duration strikes and other small scale offensive actions to seize, destroy, capture, recover, or damage designated targets
-can create effects disproportionate to the size of the committed force
How may SF conduct DA missions?
- Unilateral - SF pure teams
- Joint - mix of SF and conventional
- Combined - SF-controlled non-US forces
What are the 3 dynamics of DA missions?
- Speed
- Surprise
- Focused Combat Power
What are the 2 types of SF DA missions?
- Specific Target Attacks
2. Recovery Operations
What are potential means to conduct Specific Target Attacks?
direct assault raids ambushes sniping emplacement of mines employ obstacles provide terminal guidance employ standoff weapons sabotage
When are SF units usually employed in DA?
- time sensitive
- target presents a higher risk to air platforms than small ground forces
- target may be difficult to acquire due to its mobility, terrain, weather or enemy deception
- may require positive identification and ability to prevent collateral damage
How can risk be reduced in a DA mission?
- detailed intelligence
- time for preparation and rehearsals
- units level of training
What are 2 types of recovery operations?
- Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR)
2. Non-Combatant Evacuation (NEO)
What are Specific Target Attacks?
Operations intended to create a specific effect on a target
What are recovery operations?
Operations to recover or capture friendly or enemy personnel and/or equipment
What are the 5 DA mission criteria?
Is the mission appropriate for SF?
Does the mission support the GCC campaign plan?
Is the mission operationally feasible?
Are the required resources available to conduct the mission?
Does the expected outcome justify the risk?
What is the difference between SE and SSE?
SE-conducted on all targets, used to develop future/follow on operations, conducted with organic or HN assets
SSE-conducted against a target with sensitivity to the US government, usually requires outside assets, requires more time on obj
What are the phases of a DA mission?
pre-deployment (planning/rehearsals) deployment (insertion/infiltration) employment (actions on obj) re-deployment (exfiltration/extraction) post-deployment (debrief/AAR/prep for future ops)
