VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
SECTION V — THIRD-PARTY TARGETING
8500 GENERAL
Weapon range of ASSM exceeding the sensor range of the missile-firing unit requires the evaluation
and transmission of target data by a third party acting as an external sensor. When there is a requirement to
disguise the presence or identity of a missile-carrying unit from a target within the firing-units sensor horizon,
third-party targeting may be used. Surveillance, identification, classification, recognition, and reporting
as a contribution for the surface picture compilation by this external sensor is a prerequisite for the
firing unit to decide target selection, weapon, and firing policy. Damage assessment after missile engagement
is another important function for an external sensor.
8501 DEFINITIONS
a. Third-Party Targeting (TPT). TPT is the evaluation and reporting/transmission of data for
the surface picture compilation and/or missile engagement by a target reporting unit (TRU).
b. Over-the-Horizon Targeting (OTHT). OTHT is the location evaluation and reporting/transmission
of data for a target outside the active sensor horizon of a missile-firing unit by means of a TRU.
c. Disguised Targeting. This is the evaluation and reporting/transmission of data for an enemy
within sensor range of a missile-firing unit aimed to disguise its presence.
d. Remote Targeting. This is the evaluation of target data for a missile engagement by means of
a system-integrated remote sensor platform capable of midcourse and terminal command override.
e. Target Reporting Unit (TRU). TRU is a sensor platform (manned or remotely piloted). This
unit is able to evaluate and report/transmit data for surface picture compilation and missile engagement to a
missile-firing unit.
f. Voice/RATT Reporting. This is the reporting of data for surface picture compilation and missile
engagement for a TRU to a missile-firing unit by voice/RATT.
g. Link Reporting. This is the transmission of data surface picture compilation and missile engagement
from a TRU to a missile-firing unit by automatic data transmission in real time (Link).
8502 OVER-THE-HORIZON TARGETING CONSIDERATIONS
a. Appropriate OPGEN or OPTASK ASUW. The OTC normally promulgates his antisurface
warfare policy using the appropriate OPGEN or OPTASK ASUW.
b. Employment of OTHT Weapons. Normally OTHT-capable weapons are force weapons
and therefore are employed as directed by the OTC or delegated authority.
c. Policy Considerations. The following is a list of items to be considered for inclusion in the
policy:
(1) Retain or delegate authority to initiate OTHT and coordination.
(2) Target priorities and desired results.
(3) Firing units in order of preference.
8-21 ORIGINAL