When engaging targets, what should one observe first?

When engaging targets, the first aspect to observe is target opportunities. This involves assessing the immediate situation to identify viable targets that can be engaged effectively without compromising safety or operational effectiveness. Understanding target opportunities allows personnel to prioritize their actions and ensure that they are focusing on the most significant threats or tasks.

Recognizing target opportunities is crucial because it sets the stage for the entire engagement process. It involves considering factors such as the type of targets, their location, movement, and the overall operational environment, which will dictate how one will approach the engagement. By identifying these opportunities first, a member can then evaluate the appropriate tactics, techniques, and procedures to use in the engagement.

While safety protocols and weapons readiness are critical components when preparing for any operation, those elements come into play after target opportunities have been established. Field conditions may affect the engagement but are secondary to the immediate assessment of what has to be engaged. Focusing on target opportunities ensures efficient and effective use of skills and resources in a tactical situation.