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MAGTF Intelligence

 Collection

MCWP 2-2
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DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY

Headquarters United States Marine Corps

Washington, DC 20380-1775

30 July 2004

FOREWORD

Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 2-2, MAGTF Intelligence Collection,

builds on the doctrinal foundation established by Marine Corps Doctrinal Publication

(MCDP) 2, Intelligence, and Marine Corps Warfighting Publication (MCWP) 2-1, Intelligence Operations, detailing specific doctrine and tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTP)

to conduct intelligence collection to support the Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF). 

MCWP 2-2 is primarily for intelligence personnel who plan and execute intelligence collection activities. Personnel who support intelligence collection activities or use their results

may also find this publication useful.

Reviewed and approved this date.

BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS

EDWARD HANLON, JR.

Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps

Deputy Commandant for Combat Development

Marine Corps Combat Development Command

Publication Control Number: 143 000148 00

DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

Chapter 1 Fundamentals

Intelligence Staff (G-2/S-2)Responsibilities.........................................................................................1-1

Specific G-2/S-2 Responsibilities.........................................................................................................1-1

Special Staff Officers under Staff Cognizance of the G-2 Officer .......................................................1-2

G-2 Operations Officer .................................................................................................................1-2

G-2 Plans Officer ..........................................................................................................................1-2

Intelligence Battalion Commander/ISC........................................................................................1-3

MEF MSC and Unit Responsibilities ...................................................................................................1-5

MAGTF Intelligence and Reconnaissance Collection Assets ..............................................................1-6

Intelligence Collection within the Marine Corps Intelligence Cycle....................................................1-6

Collection Principles.............................................................................................................................1-7

Early Involvement.........................................................................................................................1-7

Prioritization .................................................................................................................................1-7

Multidiscipline Approach .............................................................................................................1-7

Task Organic Assets First .............................................................................................................1-7

Collection Management Process...........................................................................................................1-8

Chapter 2 Collection Requirements Management

Requirements Analysis Criteria ............................................................................................................2-1

Pertinence......................................................................................................................................2-1

Feasibility......................................................................................................................................2-1

Completeness ................................................................................................................................2-2

Validation......................................................................................................................................2-2

Priority ..........................................................................................................................................2-2

Intelligence Requirements ....................................................................................................................2-2

Requirements Management ..................................................................................................................2-3

Processing IRs...............................................................................................................................2-3

Validating IRs ...............................................................................................................................2-3

Refining IRs..................................................................................................................................2-3

Managing IRs System...................................................................................................................2-3

Reviewing Priorities .....................................................................................................................2-4

Satisfying IRs................................................................................................................................2-4

Organizing the Collection Effort Around Requirements..............................................................2-4

ICR Development Process ....................................................................................................................2-5

Step1, Identify, Validate, and Prioritize PIRs and IRs .................................................................2-5

Step 2, Identify Indicators.............................................................................................................2-6

Step 3, Derive Specific Information Requirements ......................................................................2-6

Step 4, Develop SORs ..................................................................................................................2-8
iv _________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Collection Assets/Resource Selection Factors......................................................................................2-9

Capability......................................................................................................................................2-9

Suitability (or Feasibility).............................................................................................................2-9

Redundancy/Multiplicity ..............................................................................................................2-9

Balance..........................................................................................................................................2-9

Target Key Elements ....................................................................................................................2-9

Collection Capabilities................................................................................................................2-10

Correlation ..................................................................................................................................2-10

Environment................................................................................................................................2-10

Intelligence Collection Planning.........................................................................................................2-11

IRs Worksheet.............................................................................................................................2-11

Intelligence Collection Worksheet..............................................................................................2-12

Reporting ....................................................................................................................................2-12

Collection and Related Planning Tools ......................................................................................2-12

Intelligence and Reconnaissance Assets Tasking...............................................................................2-14

Standard Formats for Asset Tasking...................................................................................................2-14

Guidelines for Requesting National/Theater Collection Support .......................................................2-14

Production Requests ...........................................................................................................................2-15

Production Request Format ................................................................................................................2-16

Chapter 3 Intelligence Collection Operations Management

Mission Planning and Collection Plan Development ...........................................................................3-1

Collection Asset Tasking ......................................................................................................................3-2

Tasking Organic Collections and Production Assets or Supporting Collection

and Production Resources.....................................................................................................3-2

Requesting Support from External MAGTF Collection and Production Resources ....................3-2

Tasking Subordinate Elements .....................................................................................................3-3

MAGTF Collection Tasking.........................................................................................................3-3

Exploitation and Reporting...................................................................................................................3-3

Cueing...........................................................................................................................................3-4

Redundancy ..................................................................................................................................3-4

Mix................................................................................................................................................3-4

Integration.....................................................................................................................................3-5

Coordination .................................................................................................................................3-5

Report Formats .............................................................................................................................3-5

Supervision of the Collection Effort.....................................................................................................3-8

Functions.......................................................................................................................................3-8

Duties ............................................................................................................................................3-8

Updating the Collection Plan During Execution ..................................................................................3-9

Chapter 4 Planning and Execution 

Terrain...................................................................................................................................................4-1

Weather.................................................................................................................................................4-1

Threat ....................................................................................................................................................4-1

Coordination with Maneuver and Fires ................................................................................................4-1

Communications and Information Systems..........................................................................................4-2
MAGTF Intelligence Collection ___________________________________________________________________________________ v 

Combat Service Support Availability ...................................................................................................4-2

Employment of MAGTF Intelligence Units.........................................................................................4-3

Focused Intelligence Support................................................................................................................4-3

Task Organization of Intelligence Support Units .................................................................................4-3

Intelligence Direct Support Teams .......................................................................................................4-4

Precrisis (Garrison/Peacetime) Intelligence Collection........................................................................4-4

The Planning Phase...............................................................................................................................4-4

Intelligence Collection During Execution ............................................................................................4-5

Current Operations................................................................................................................................4-5

Future Operations .................................................................................................................................4-6

Appendices

A Sample Intelligence Requirements Worksheet ........................................................................... A-1

B Sample Intelligence Collection Worksheet Description .............................................................B-1

C Sample Intelligence Collection Plan........................................................................................... C-1

D Sample Collection Status Update Paragraph Format...................................................................D-1

E Sample Collection Emphasis Message ...................................................................................... E-1

F Glossary ....................................................................................................................................... F-1

G References....................................................................................................................................G-1

Figures

1-1 The Marine Corps Intelligence Cycle ..........................................................................................1-7

2-1 Requirements Satisfaction ...........................................................................................................2-5

2-2 ICR Development Process ............................................................................................................2-5

2-3 Sample Intelligence Requirements Worksheet ...........................................................................2-12

2-4 Intelligence Collection Tasking Worksheet................................................................................2-13

3-1 Notional Intelligence Synchronization Matrix .............................................................................3-6

B-1 Sample Intelligence Collection Worksheet..................................................................................B-4
CHAPTER 1

FUNDAMENTALS

Intelligence collection is the acquisition of information and the provision of this information to

processing elements (Joint Publication [JP] 1-02,

Department of Defense Dictionary of Military

and Associated Terms). In Marine Corps usage,

collection is the gathering of intelligence data and

information to satisfy the identified requirements

(MCRP 5-12C, Marine Corps Supplement to the

Department of Defense Dictionary of Military

and Associated Terms). Successful MAGTF

intelligence collection seeks to help reduce uncertainty regarding the enemy, weather, terrain, and

operational environment. MAGTF intelligence

collection activities form detailed intelligence

collection requirements (ICRs), task organic collection assets, and request external collection

resources to satisfy the warfighting commander’s

priority intelligence requirements (PIRs) and

other intelligence requirements (IRs). 

Intelligence Staff (G-2/S-2) Responsibilities

The intelligence staff (G-2/S-2) has responsibility for intelligence and intelligence operations.

The commander relies on the intelligence officer

to provide information on weather, terrain, and

enemy capabilities, status, and intentions.

Through the intelligence annex and supporting

appendices, the G-2/S-2 does the following:

z Validates and plans information requirements.

z Coordinates intelligence priorities.

z Integrates collection, production, and dissemination activities.

z Allocates resources.

z Assigns specific intelligence and reconnaissance missions to subordinate elements.

z Supervises the overall intelligence, counterintelligence (CI), and reconnaissance efforts. 

See also MCWP 3-40.1, Marine Air-Ground Task

Force Command and Control, and MCWP 2-1,

Intelligence Operations.

Specific G-2/S-2 Responsibilities 

z Develops and answers outstanding intelligence-related PIRs.

z Prioritizes PIRs and IRs by planning, directing,

integrating, and supervising organic multidiscipline MAGTF and supporting intelligence

operations.

z Prepares appropriate intelligence, CI, and

reconnaissance plans and orders:

 Reviews and coordinates the all-source intelligence, CI, and reconnaissance plans of

joint task forces (JTFs), theaters, and other

organizations. 

 Submits and coordinates all-source collection, production, and dissemination requirements beyond the capability of the MAGTF

through higher headquarters for JTF, theater

or national intelligence support.

z Ensures intelligence information is rapidly processed, analyzed, and incorporated where

appropriate in all-source intelligence products,

and rapidly disseminates to all MAGTF and

external units requiring these. 

z Evaluates JTF, theater, and national all-source

intelligence support and adjusts stated IRs.

z Identifies deficiencies in intelligence, CI, and

reconnaissance personnel and equipment

resources.

z Incorporates exercise intelligence in training

exercises to improve individual, collective, and

unit readiness.

z Facilitates understanding and use of intelligence in support of the planning and execution

of operations.
1-2 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Special Staff Officers under Staff 

Cognizance of the G-2 Officer

G-2 Operations Officer

The G-2 operations officer has primary responsibility for intelligence support to current and

future operations. Specific responsibilities

include the following:

z Coordinates and provides intelligence support

to the commander, the G-3 operations section,

and the rest of the commander’s battle staff.

z Serves as the G-2 representative to the

MAGTF command element (CE) crisis action

team.

z Coordinates, provides, and supervises intelligence support to the MAGTF CE, combat

operations center, future operations center, and

force fires.

z Plans, directs, and supervises the red cell.

z Provides recommendations on PIR and IR validation, prioritization, and tasking to the G-2

and the intelligence support coordinator (ISC).

z Coordinates and supervises the transition of

intelligence planning and operations from G-2

plans to G-2 future operations, and from G-2

future operations to G-2 current operations to

effectively support operations.

z Plans, directs, and supervises MAGTF liaison

teams to external commands; e.g., the JTF and

joint functional components headquarters and

intelligence organizations.

z Coordinates with the ISC and MAGTF major

subordinate commands’ (MSCs’) G-2 operations officers for unity of effort of MAGTF

intelligence operations.

z Provides intelligence input and other support to

MAGTF warning and fragmentary orders

(FRAGOs) and to operations-related reporting; e.g., periodic situation reports.

z Coordinates intelligence training for the

MAGTF G-2 section and provides G-2 oversight for and integration of the entire MAGTF

intelligence training program.

z Performs other intelligence support and tasks

as directed by the G-2.

G-2 Plans Officer

The G-2 plans officer has primary responsibility

for intelligence support to the future plans cell.

Specific responsibilities include the following:

z Plans the MAGTF concept of intelligence

operations for approval by the G-2 and subsequent implementation by the integrated staff

cell based on the mission, threat, commander’s

intent, guidance, and concept of operations.

z Leads, coordinates, and provides intelligence

support to G-5 future plans section.

z Plans and coordinates intelligence support

requirements for and the deployment of intelligence elements and resources into the area of

operations (AO).

z Provides recommendations on PIR and IR validation, prioritization, and taskings to the G-2

and the ISC.

z With the ISC, coordinates G-2 development of

Annex B (Intelligence) and Annex M (Geospatial Information and Services) to the operation

plan/operation order (OPLAN/OPORD).

z Keeps the G-2 section, other CE staff sections,

intelligence liaison personnel, augmentees, and

others apprised of MAGTF intelligence planning actions and requirements.

z Identifies requirements and provides recommendations to the G-2 operations officer for

MAGTF intelligence liaison teams to external

commands; e.g., the JTF or other components’

headquarters and intelligence agencies.

z Coordinates and develops policies for intelligence, CI, and reconnaissance operations.

z Plans, directs, and supervises the G-2’s imagery and mapping, CI/human intelligence

(HUMINT), signals intelligence (SIGINT), and

weather sections.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 1-3 

z Performs other intelligence support and tasks

as directed by the G-2.

Intelligence Battalion Commander/ISC

The intelligence battalion commander plans,

directs, collects, processes, produces, and disseminates intelligence, and provides CI support

to the Marine expeditionary force (MEF), MEF

MSCs, subordinate MAGTFs, and other commands as directed.

In garrison, the principal task of the intelligence

battalion commander is to organize, train, and

equip detachments that support MAGTFs or other

designated commands to execute integrated collection, intelligence analysis, production, and dissemination of intelligence products.

During operations, the intelligence battalion commander is dual-hatted as the ISC, serving under

the direct staff cognizance of the G-2. The S-3

section and the operations center element of the

G-2 form the core of the ISC support effort, with

planning, direction, and command and control

(C2) conducted within the intelligence operation

center’s (IOC’s) support cell. As the ISC, the

commander is responsible to the G-2 for the overall planning and execution of all-source intelligence operations. Specific ISC responsibilities

during actual operations include the following:

z Implements the concept of intelligence operations developed by the G-2 plans officer and

approved by the G-2.

z Establishes and supervises operation of the

MAGTF IOC, which includes the support cell,

the surveillance and reconnaissance cell

(SARC), and the production and analysis

(P&A) cell. Generally, the IOC will be collocated with the MAGTF CE’s main command

post.

z Develops, consolidates, validates, and prioritizes recommended PIRs and IRs to support

MAGTF planning and operations. The ISC is

tasked to perform PIR and IR validation and

prioritization only during actual operations

when the IOC is activated. During routine

peacetime operations, PIR and IR validation

and prioritization tasks are the responsibility of

the G-2 operations officer.

z Plans, develops, integrates, and coordinates

intelligence collection, production, and dissemination plans. This includes the effective

organic and external integration and employment and staff cognizance of SIGINT; CI;

HUMINT; geographic intelligence; imagery

intelligence (IMINT); ground remote sensors;

ground reconnaissance; and tactical air reconnaissance intelligence collections, production,

and dissemination operations.

z Develops (with the G-2 plans officer and G-2

operations officer) and completes Annex B

(Intelligence) and Annex M (Geospatial Information and Services) to the OPLAN/OPORD.

z Plans, develops, integrates, and coordinates

intelligence and CI support to the commander’s estimate; situation development;

indications and warning; force protection; targeting; and combat assessment.

z Manages and fuses the threat (or red) common

operational picture/common tactical picture

(COP/CTP) inputs from subordinate units and

external commands and intelligence agencies

into the COP/CTP.

z Provides intelligence support to the MAGTF

G-2 section and the MSCs.

z Prepares the intelligence and CI estimates to

support G-2 plans.

z Plans, develops, and coordinates intelligence

communications and information systems

(CIS) architecture, including its integration

with and support of IMINT and other intelligence and reconnaissance requirements.

z Coordinates and integrates all-source intelligence operations with other Service components; the JTF joint intelligence support

element; the theater joint intelligence center or

joint analysis center; and national intelligence

agencies and operations to include all aspects

of intelligence reachback support.

z Assists with the evaluation and improvement

of all-source intelligence, CI, and reconnaissance operations.
1-4 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

z Provides other intelligence support and tasks as

directed by the G-2.

Collection Management/Dissemination Officer

The collection management/dissemination officer

(CM/DO) is sourced from the intelligence battalion’s S-3 section and is a key subordinate to the

intelligence battalion commander/ISC during

operations. The CM/DO forms detailed ICRs and

intelligence dissemination requirements (IDRs),

and tasking and coordinating internal and external operations to satisfy these. The CM/DO

receives validated PIRs and IRs and direction

from the ISC, and then plans and manages the

best methods to employ organic and supporting

collection and dissemination resources through the

intelligence collection and dissemination plans.

The CM/DO also validates and forwards national

and theater intelligence collection requests from

the MAGTF and MSCs typically using appropriate intelligence tools and TTP. He also coordinates intelligence CIS requirements and

maintains awareness of available CIS connectivity throughout the MAGTF and with key external organizations. During operations, the CM/DO

works within the support cell. In coordination

with the P&A cell officer in charge (OIC), the

SARC OIC, the G-2 operations officer, the intelligence/reconnaissance commanders, and the G6, the CM/DO is responsible to the ISC for the

following tasks:

z Determines and coordinates the collection

effort of PIRs/IRs that may be collected via

intelligence, CI, and reconnaissance resources.

z Determines PIRs/IRs and prepares requests for

intelligence (RFIs) that are beyond organic

capabilities; prepares submissions to higher

headquarters and external agencies for support.

z Recommends dissemination priorities, develops intelligence reporting criteria, and advises

on and selects dissemination means.

z Uses the Collection Management Board (if established) to develops and coordinates all-source

intelligence collection plans, and coordinates and

integrates these with MAGTF, other components,

JTF, theater, and national intelligence production

operations.

z Develops and coordinates all-source intelligence dissemination plans and supporting

architectures for voice and data networked

communications; coordinates and integrates

these with MAGTF, other components, JTF,

theater, and national intelligence CIS and dissemination operations.

z Monitors the flow of intelligence throughout

the MAGTF; ensures that it is delivered to

intended recipients in a timely fashion and satisfactorily meets their needs.

z Evaluates the effectiveness of MAGTF and

supporting intelligence collection and dissemination operations.

SARC OIC

The SARC OIC is also an immediate subordinate

of the ISC and is responsible for supervising the

execution of the integrated organic, attached, and

direct support (DS) intelligence collection and

reconnaissance operations. The SARC OIC is

responsible to the ISC for the following:

z Coordinates, monitors, and maintains the status

of all ongoing intelligence, CI, and reconnaissance collection operations. This includes the

following: 

 Missions, tasked ICRs, and reporting criteria

for all collection missions.

 Locations and times for all pertinent fire support control measures.

 Primary and alternate CIS plans for routine

and time-sensitive requirements (for collectors and between the collectors or the SARC

and key MAGTF CE and MSC C2 nodes) to

support ongoing C2 of collection operations

and dissemination of acquired data and intelligence to those needing it by the most expeditious means.

z Conducts detailed intelligence collection planning and coordination with the MSCs and intelligence, CI, and reconnaissance organizations’
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 1-5 

planners, with emphasis on ensuring understanding of the collection plan and specified

intelligence reporting criteria.

z Ensures other MAGTF C2 nodes; e.g., the current operations center or force fires, are

apprised of ongoing intelligence, CI, and

reconnaissance operations.

z Receives routine and time-sensitive intelligence reports from deployed collection elements; cross-cueing among intelligence

collectors, as appropriate; and the rapid dissemination of intelligence reports to MAGTF C2

nodes and others in accordance with IRs, intelligence reporting criteria and dissemination

plans, and the current tactical situation.

P&A Cell OIC

The P&A cell OIC’s primary responsibility is to

manage and supervise the MAGTF’s all-source

intelligence processing and production efforts.

Key responsibilities include the following:

z Plans, directs, and manages operations of the

all-source fusion platoon to include the fusion,

order of battle, intelligence preparation of the

battlespace (IPB), and target intelligence/battle damage assessment (BDA) teams; the topographic platoon; the IMINT platoon; DS

teams; and other P&A elements as directed.

z Coordinates and integrates P&A cell operations, estimates, and products with the G-2 section’s G-2 operations branch and its red cell

operations and estimates.

z Maintains all-source automated intelligence

databases, files, workbooks, country studies,

and other intelligence studies.

z Plans and maintains imagery, mapping, and

topographic resources and other intelligence

references.

z Administers, integrates, operates, and maintains intelligence processing and production

systems and unclassified general service (message) and sensitive compartmented information

systems; e.g., the intelligence analysis system

or the image product library.

z Analyzes and fuses intelligence and other

information into tailored all-source intelligence

products to satisfy all supported commanders’

stated or anticipated PIRs and IRs.

z Develops and maintains current and future

intelligence situational, threat, and environmental assessments and target intelligence

based on all-source analysis, interpretation,

and integration.

z Manages and fuses the threat (or red) COP/

CTP inputs from subordinate units and external

commands and intelligence agencies into the

COP/CTP.

For additional information on staff and unit intelligence responsibilities, see MCWP 3-40.1 and

MCWP 2-1.

MEF MSC and Unit Responsibilities

Intelligence collection responsibilities also extend

to MEF MSCs and units. Key tasks of the MEF

MSC intelligence officers include the following:

z Consolidates, validates, and prioritizes MSC

IRs and collection needs.

z Submits consolidated requests for external

intelligence support.

z Coordinates intelligence activities within their

unit. 

The unit intelligence officer is generally responsible for the following tasks: 

z Coordinates with unit production personnel to

verify that the needed information or intelligence is not already available. 

z Identifies requirements beyond the unit’s capability to satisfy. The unit intelligence section

identifies requirements it cannot satisfy internally and forwards these up the chain of command for satisfaction. Detailed justification

and the latest time intelligence is of value

(LTIOV) should be included so that ICRs can

successfully compete with other ICRs for priority collection support.
1-6 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

z Develops unit intelligence collection plans,

which must be thoroughly coordinated and

integrated with the unit’s intelligence production and dissemination plans. Ensures the intelligence plan is responsive to operational needs

by analyzing incoming information, determining its value and relevance, and refining future

collection needs.

z Integrates collection operations with unit

maneuver, fires, communications, and logistics operations. To be effective, collection

operations must be coordinated with other

operations of the command. 

z Plans and supervises operations of organic collection assets and coordinating internal support; e.g., communications, logistics, and

security. 

MAGTF Intelligence and Reconnaissance 

Collection Assets 

Intelligence data and information are collected by

a wide range of MAGTF intelligence and reconnaissance assets. These assets include, but may

not be limited to, the following:

z Marine tactical electronic warfare (EW) squadron (VMAQ).

z Radio battalion.

z CI/HUMINT company.

z Ground sensor platoon (GSP).

z Force reconnaissance company.

z Light armored reconnaissance battalion.

z Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) squadron.

z Ground combat element reconnaissance battalion/company/platoon.

z Joint surveillance target attack radar system

(JSTARS) common ground station.

z F/A-18D reconnaissance capable with

advanced tactical airborne reconnaissance system (ATARS).

For additional information on unit capabilities,

see the following MCWPs:

z 2-14, Counterintelligence (CI/HUMINT).

z 2-15.1, Remote Sensor Operations (GSP).

z 2-15.2, Signals Intelligence (radio battalion).

z 2-15.4, Imagery Intelligence (JSTARS).

z 3-26, Air Reconnaissance (F/A-18D ATARS).

z 3-40.5, Electronic Warfare (VMAQ and radio

battalion).

z 3-42.1, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations

(UAV).

Intelligence Collection within the 

Marine Corps Intelligence Cycle 

The process used to develop intelligence is called

the intelligence cycle. See figure 1-1. The

Marine Corps intelligence cycle consists of six

sequential yet interdependent steps: planning and

direction; collection; processing and exploitation; production; dissemination; and utilization.

Collection is the second step, yet collection management is a continuing process and occurs concurrently throughout the cycle. Intelligence

collection is a process that helps identify and validate IRs, prioritize them, determine effective

means for acquiring information to help satisfy

them, and develop, execute, and supervise intelligence and reconnaissance operations.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 1-7 

Collection Principles 

Collection managers may use the following general principles when planning and executing

intelligence collection activities. See also JP 2-01,

Joint Intelligence Support to Military Operations. 

Early Involvement

A collection manager must get involved with IRs

identification and management early in planning.

This ensures thorough consideration and

increased flexibility in choosing intelligence collection assets and resources, enhancing the quality and timeliness of collected information.

Prioritization

Prioritization assigns a distinct ranking to each

collection requirement. Prioritization must be

based on the commander’s guidance and the current situation to ensure that assets/resources are

directed against the most critical requirements. 

Multidiscipline Approach

Collection managers must avoid overreliance on a

single collection system or intelligence discipline.

Each intelligence collection asset/resource has

unique strengths and weaknesses. However, each

asset’s limitations can be mitigated through the

capabilities of other resources. Overreliance on a

single asset may result in mission failure if that

asset becomes unavailable or the adversary can

ascertain its employment pattern and implement

countermeasures. A fully integrated collection plan

uses collection resources in a complementary manner, adding depth to collection activities.

Task Organic Assets First

Use of organic collection assets allows a timely

and tailored response to collection requirements

and lessens the burden on collection resources

controlled by other units, agencies, and organizations. However, if the requirement cannot be satisfied with organic assets, the collection manager

should not hesitate to request external collection

Planning

and Direction

Utilization

Dissemination

Production

Processing

and Exploitation

Collection

Figure 1-1. The Marine Corps Intelligence Cycle. 
1-8 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

support. The collection manager should have an

integrated collection plan, including national, theater, and organic collection assets, to ensure ICRs

are collected in a timely, accurate manner. 

Collection Management Process 

Collection management is, in intelligence usage,

the process of converting intelligence requirements into collection requirements, establishing

priorities, tasking or coordinating with appropriate collection sources or agencies, monitoring

results and retasking, as required (JP 1-02). Its

purpose is to effectively collect all required intelligence while ensuring the best use of limited and

valuable collection assets. 

There are two distinct phases of collection management: collection requirements management

(CRM), defining what information collections

disciplines must collect; and collection operations management (COM), specifying how the

collection disciplines will collect. CRM focuses

on the IR, is all-source oriented, and generally

interacts with intelligence production elements.

COM focuses on selecting the specific intelligence disciplines and specific assets to be used to

collect information that satisfies IRs. COM establishes a collection strategy and determines how to

collect against requirements. 

In the MAGTF, CRM and COM are planned,

directed, and coordinated by the MAGTF G-2/

S-2. However, each MAGTF element has an

intelligence staff officer and performs collection management functions. Each unit interacts

with levels above and below, and among units,

organizations, and agencies on the same level.

The further up the chain, the broader the perspective and scope of responsibility and the

more organic collection assets and access to collection resources; the lower down the chain, the

more specific the function and narrow the scope

of collection activities.
CHAPTER 2

COLLECTION REQUIREMENTS MANAGEMENT

Properly articulated, mission-oriented requirements focus the intelligence effort and provide

the foundation for successful MAGTF intelligence collection operations.

CRM is the authoritative development and control of collection, processing, exploitation, and/or

reporting requirements that normally result in

either direct tasking of assets over which the collection manager has authority, or the generation

of tasking requests to collection management

authorities at a higher, lower, or lateral echelon to

accomplish the collection mission (JP 1-02). 

CRM focuses on the requirements of the commander, planner or supported units, is oriented at

providing all-source intelligence, and generally

interacts with intelligence production elements. 

CRM organizes, prioritizes, validates, and manages the ICRs that the collection effort must fulfill. CRM is designed to ensure the high priority

ICRs get the attention they deserve and determine

what specific collection operations and characteristics must be planned and executed to answer

these. CRM begins with initial efforts to determine and answer the commander’s PIRs established during the planning and direction phase of

the intelligence cycle. The compilation of ICRs

is the basis for the collection plan. CRM works in

cooperation with COM. During CRM a plan is

developed to satisfy the requirements, which then

transitions to COM for execution. During execution, CRM continues by checking with those supported to determine whether collection operations

are actually satisfying their IRs. The CRM process is used to derive, organize, state, and manage IRs. 

Requirements Analysis Criteria

IRs are developed as the commanders and staffs

work through the Marine Corps Planning Process. Even in the early stages of mission analysis, the collection manager has compiled a

number of questions submitted by the staffs and

subordinate commanders. In his initial attempts

to organize the collection effort, the collection

manager analyzes all ICRs he has received. The

collection manager helps identify ICRs that can

be answered by currently available intelligence

and those that will be incorporated in the collection plan. Criteria used to determine the questions that will be converted into collection tasks

will be situation-dependent. 

Pertinence

Pertinence demands that only ICRs that are relevant to current operations or operations being

planned should be planned and executed. Often a

proactive commander or staff may submit an ICR

in support of an anticipated but not actually

assigned follow-on mission or other nonmissionessential task. The collection manager ensures

that only relevant ICRs are acted on. 

Feasibility

Feasibility demands that only those ICRs that

actually can be collected on should be planned

and executed. This refers to MAGTF or supporting assets/resources’ ability to perform the collection mission, and also to the existence of

collectible or “observable” data that the collector

will be able to observe, update, and report. 
2-2 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Completeness

Completeness demands that a proposed ICR is

complete; i.e., does it ask only one question? The

IR should focus on a specific fact, activity or

event. The collection manager should identify

those questions that are incomplete and coordinate

with the originating commander or staff section for

refinement. Collection managers must make all

efforts to assist commanders and staffs in drafting

questions and refining them if returned.

Validation

Validation checks if the proposed ICR has

already been answered and/or if it duplicates

existing IRs and ICRs. Questions that pass this

criterion are said to be “validated.” For those not

passing this test, collection personnel will initiate

coordination with the production element.

Priority

Priority demands that difficult decisions be made

regarding the relative importance of some IRs

and PIRs compared to others. PIRs must be

rank-ordered by the commander in terms of their

relative importance to his decisionmaking. There

are no “ties” in PIR priorities. If everything is top

priority, then effectively nothing is a priority. All

IRs that are not designated PIRs but pass all other

criteria likewise must be prioritized. The collection manager must prioritize these also, rankordering requirements against each other. The

collection manager should do the following: 

z Always reprioritize dynamically. The collection manager must have a system in place that

allows easy reprioritization based on the commander’s guidance and tactical needs.

z Keep the commander informed. It is important that the commander knows when a PIR

from a subordinate commander will receive

lower priority.

z Be prepared to justify priorities. The collection manager must be prepared to explain what

factors influenced the prioritization decisions.

Commanders and intelligence officers on other

staffs should understand the rationale for the

prioritization. 

z Continuously communicate current priorities

and justifications. Using a database or spreadsheet, subordinate units should be able to monitor the status of their requirements and assess

priorities and planned operations. The MAGTF

CE should publish and disseminate an updated

list as part of an intelligence summary or other

periodic product in message format to help

lower-echelon commanders and units maintain

awareness of higher headquarters’ plans and

operations. This will also provide an opportunity to adjust for changes in critical situations.

Intelligence Requirements

Intelligence gaps or information needs are formally labeled intelligence requirements. An intelligence requirement is any subject, general or

specific, upon which there is a need for the collection of information, or the production of intelligence (JP 1-02). In Marine Corps usage,

questions about the enemy and the environment,

the answers to which a commander requires to

make sound decisions (MCRP 5-12C). IRs drive

the collections process and the overall intelligence cycle. IRs are initially developed during

the planning process. These are the relevant IRs,

related to the enemy, threat or battlespace environment, that commanders deem essential for the

successful accomplishment of the mission. IRs

are categorized as PIRs and IRs.

PIRs are those intelligence requirements for

which a commander has an anticipated and stated

priority in the task of planning and decisionmaking (JP 1-02). In Marine Corps usage, an intelligence requirement associated with a decision that

will critically affect the overall success of the

command’s mission (MCRP 5-12C). PIRs are

prioritized among themselves and may change in

priority over the course of an evolution. Only the

commander designates PIRs. 
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 2-3 

Generally, the difference between a PIR and an

IR is that a commander must have the answer to

the PIR to make a decision. At any one time there

are not many PIRs in effect.

The lowest priority PIR takes precedence over the

highest priority IR. IRs are questions typically

generated by the staff but not ones that the commander feels he needs answered before making

decisions. While there are ideally a few PIRs,

there may be many IRs. Like PIRs, IRs should be

prioritized against each other to support effective

intelligence planning and operations.

PIRs and IRs have the following characteristics.

Each PIR or IR—

z Asks only one question.

z Focuses on specific facts, events or activities

concerning the enemy or the battlespace.

z Is tied to mission planning, decisionmaking,

and execution.

z Provides a clear, concise statement of what

intelligence is required.

z Contains geographic and time elements to limit

the scope of the requirement.

See also MCWP 2-1.

Requirements Management

Management of IRs is a dynamic process that

encompasses the continuous evaluation of the following:

z The importance of each requirement to mission

success.

z Continued relevance based upon the current

situation and plans.

z Information and assets needed to satisfy each

requirement.

z Resources that are presently committed toward

fulfilling that requirement.

z The degree to which the requirement has been

satisfied by intelligence activities.

Processing IRs

Development of IRs and designation of PIRs is

continuous. There is a dynamic flow of new

IRs—existing requirements are satisfied or are no

longer relevant—and the relative importance of

each requirement changes as planning, decisionmaking, execution, and assessment progress. As

IRs are developed, the collection manager validates, refines, and enters them into the collection

management system. 

Validating IRs

Validation ensures that the IR is relevant to the

mission, has not already been satisfied, and does

not duplicate any other requirements.

Refining IRs

Refining the IR entails placing it in the proper

format, identifying all related information components, and adding appropriate qualifiers such

as geographic limitations or time constraints.

During refinement, similar or related IRs may be

combined into a single, comprehensive IR. 

Managing IRs System

A requirements management system is an essential tool that provides a means to monitor the effort

to satisfy each IR. Each intelligence section must

develop a system appropriate to its mission and

echelon. Minimal components of any IR management system follow:

z A numbering system.

z Identifying who submitted the requirement. 

z Designating collection and production assets

committed to satisfying the IR or noting when

the IR was submitted to higher headquarters or

supporting agencies, if organic assets are not

available.

z Timeliness requirements.

z Dissemination instructions and information.

z A mechanism to track user satisfaction.
2-4 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Reviewing Priorities

The collection manager must continually reassess

the emphasis given to each IR and realign the priorities according to the commander’s intent, current situation, and the planning cycle phase. The

intelligence officer must also periodically confirm

the assignment of priorities with the commander to

ensure that the intelligence effort is focused in

accordance with the commander’s desires. In

addition to IRs of his own command, the collection manager usually receives requests for information from outside agencies (subordinate,

adjacent, and senior). Given that MAGTF intelligence operations are centrally managed by the

MAGTF CE, the collection manager must continually solicit, assess, and integrate the IR needs of

subordinate commanders. 

Satisfying IRs

Once an IR has been identified, validated,

refined, and prioritized, the collection manager

must determine how to satisfy it and allocate the

appropriate intelligence and reconnaissance

assets to obtain the desired information and intelligence. If the IR cannot be satisfied by organic

assets, it must be submitted to higher headquarters or supporting forces/agencies for satisfaction. In determining how to satisfy an IR, the

collection manager must consider each step in

the intelligence cycle to ensure that the plan

encompasses the entire process from collection

through utilization. In conjunction with the

P&A cell OIC and the CM/DO, the collection

team must identify the information needed,

where and how to get it, how to package the

intelligence into an appropriate product, and how

to deliver that product. 

Normally, an IR will generate tasks to collect

data or information; process/produce tactical

intelligence to answer the question; and disseminate the intelligence to all users needing it by a

specific time.

Organizing the Collection Effort

Around Requirements

Each IR will generally have an associated ICR,

intelligence production requirement (IPR), and

IDR. See figure 2-1. However, in practice, an

intelligence development effort is rarely concentrated on a single IR. Normally, related IRs are

grouped together and synchronized to ensure that

intelligence operations are focused on the PIRs

and satisfy as many IRs as possible. This grouping also helps with the need to employ intelligence resources in the most effective and

efficient manner.

Assets/resources to requirements must be

matched. Once the ICRs, IPRs, and IDRs have

been identified, the intelligence officer allocates

the necessary collection, processing and exploitation, production, and dissemination assets to

carry out the task. 

Collection agencies and production requirements

must be assigned. The remainder of the planning

and direction effort entails managing the intelligence effort to ensure that intelligence assets stay

focused on the PIRs and that the results are being

delivered and used to effect tactical decisions.

Principles of assigning collection agencies and

analytical production to requirements include the

following:

z Requirement research: to ensure previously

acquired/developed intelligence does not

answer current requirements, to include

exploiting ongoing/planned collection operations of other friendly forces.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 2-5 

z Assessing collectability of the target versus

available sensors and other collectors. This

identifies the capability of the asset/resource to

collect and suitability of the asset/resource to

collect. Often what is marginally capable is

not necessarily the most suitable to collect, but

might be tasked if necessary. 

z Conceptualizing multiplicity of collection: to

ensure redundancy and as a hedge in case of

single asset/resource or single collections discipline failure.

ICR Development Process

The ICR development process uses a building

block approach of four steps that translates broad

questions into concrete questions, tasks, and

orders for collection agencies to perform. See

figure 2-2. 

Step 1, Identify, Validate, and Prioritize 

PIRs and IRs

This is the foundation of the ICR development

process. It is the basis for collection planning and

execution. A common mistake in regard to PIRs

PIR/IR

ICR IPR IDR

Example:

IR

Identify Landing

Beaches

ICR

Imagery,

Hydrographic Surveys

IPR

All-Source

Beach Study

IDR

Distribute

40 Copies

Figure 2-1. Requirements Satisfaction.

Identify, Validate, and

Prioritize PIRs and IRs

Identify Indicators

Derive Specific Information

Requirements (SIRs)

Develop Specific Orders or

Requests (SORs)

Figure 2-2. ICR Development Process.
2-6 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

and IRs in general is that they lack adequate

specificity. Poorly developed PIRs increase the

potential of failure regarding timely, pertinent

collection, and follow-on intelligence operations. Focused, specific requirements are needed

to make informed, effective plans and decisions.

Below are examples of common PIRs, with an

evaluation of each one’s effectiveness.

PIR 1: “Where is the enemy going to attack?”

This PIR is too broad, leaving too much open to

interpretation in terms of critical considerations,

such as specific—

z Threat unit.

z Threat equipment.

z Threat activity.

z Place and time.

PIR 2: “Will the enemy tank division attack our

Obj A along Highway 66 prior to D-2?” This PIR

provides enough specificity to enable effective

collection of the required information and shows

how to write a good IR. 

Step 2, Identify Indicators

Once the critical IR question has been determined, the next step is to identify the activities

that will confirm (or help deny if missing) the

event specified in each PIR and IR. These activities, called indicators, are usually stated in general terms, such as “forward deployment of

artillery.” Indicators provide positive or negative evidence of threat activity or a characteristic

of the environment that may influence the commander’s selection of a particular course of

action (COA). An indicator will often be associated with a named area of interest (NAI), which

is a geographical area where activity is expected

to occur that will confirm or deny an enemy

COA. Guiding principles for indicator development follow: 

z Collect on environment conditions or indicators. Developing an indicator related to a characteristic of the environment may be difficult

because often there is no activity that describes

a characteristic of the AO. It may be useful to

evaluate these kinds of indicators in terms of a

condition rather than an activity. 

z Indicators must be focused and specific. Good

requirements, whether PIRs or IRs, ask only

one question, focusing on a specific fact, event

or activity. The intelligence analyst uses indicators to correlate particular events or activities

that occur—or fail to occur—to determine

probable enemy COAs.

z Don’t overlook the value of negative results.

Negative information can be as important as

positive information. Negative or disconfirming evidence can provide the intelligence analyst insight about the enemy’s rejection of a

COA. Negative information could lead to further investigation of a possible branch COA.

Step 3, Derive Specific Information 

Requirements

Each PIR/IR generates sets of associated specific

information requirements (SIRs). SIRs are the

observable or “collectible” bits of information

that describe the information required to answer

all or part of an ICR. A completed SIR describes

the information required, the location where the

required information can be collected, and the

timeframe when it can be collected.

Drafting SIRs is an analytical, time-consuming

process requiring a thorough understanding of the

particular PIR or IR. 

Marine Corps Intelligence Activity (MCIA)

1540-002-95, Generic Intelligence Requirements

Handbook (GIRH), facilitates rapid, time-sensitive, crisis intelligence planning for MAGTFs.

The GIRH is a compendium of frequently asked

IRs, organized by mission profile, orders of battle, and terrain. The GIRH is used primarily as a

checklist to rapidly organize planning and to

determine gaps in information. It may be used as

a sort of brevity code to efficiently request information. It may also be used as a baseline intelligence support tool for intelligence centers

providing operational intelligence to forward
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 2-7 

deployed forces. The GIRH is not a stand-alone

substitute for SIR development. Collection managers should not “cut and paste” lists of requirements from the GIRH into their collection

requirements list without going through the IR

development criteria. 

Having linked IRs to an indicator, that indicator

must be broken down into very specific questions. This process consists of identifying the specific sets of information that will provide an

answer—partial or complete—to each IR. Steps

for developing SIRs include the following:

z Further narrow the focus of each indicator to

identify “where to collect” (tying it to a specific point on the battlefield). We may use a

specific NAI to replace the general idea of

“forward” in the indicator, “forward deployment of artillery” and rewrite it as “artillery

deployed in NAI 12.”

z Refine the time to be observed. Starting from

the LTIOV, collections personnel plan backward to determine collection times, taking into

account time requirements to sort through collected data, report it, process it, analyze it, and

further disseminate it to those needing it. If no

LTIOV is specified, it must be requested from

the originator of the requirement. 

z Determine the specific observables. Next consider the “what to collect,” building more

detail by identifying the specific information

that supports the indicator. For example, the

specific information that supports the indicator,

“artillery deployed in NAI 12,” might include

the presence of the following: 

 Artillery weapons.

 Fire direction control equipment or vehicles.

 Artillery-associated communications equipment.

 Artillery ammunition carriers.

z Complete the SIR. A complete SIR describes

the information required, the location where

the required information can be collected, the

time when it can be collected, reporting criteria, and principal and secondary recipients.

Generally, each IR generates sets of SIRs.

z Refine the SIR. Develop each indicator further

by identifying the specific types of equipment or

other collectible/observable characteristic associated with each SIR. For example, replace—

 “Artillery weapons” with specifics such as

“120mm mortars” or “107mm multiple rocket launcher battery,” if that is what should be

present within the NAI and enemy force

composition. 

 “Artillery-associated communications” with

“the ABC data signal,” if that is the type

used by the enemy unit in question. This

specificity will aid the collection or asset

managers to optimize their collection capabilities against the target in question.

These SIRs have been properly developed. The

collection manager has taken a focused PIR,

matched indicators to it, i.e., activities that will

confirm an event specified in the intelligence

requirement, and developed SIR sets to support

focused collection. A well-developed IR will

contain all information needed to develop supporting SIRs. In this case, the IR often states the

“where” and “when” to collect; the requirements

manager needs only to refine the “what to collect” into specific items of information. A poorly

developed SIR often results in requirements that

do not contain the information needed to identify

“where” and “when” to collect. Further coordination with the requester of information is then

needed to obtain the “where and when.” The following scenario is an example of identifying the

previous steps of developing SIRs.
2-8 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Step 4, Develop SORs 

Each indicator generates a number (sets) of SIRs.

Each SIR will, in turn, generate a SOR that can

be used to task collection assets or request collection resource support from external assets in the

COM process. A well-written SIR is easily translated into an effective SOR by making a directive vice inquisitive statement. In other words, if

a SIR is a question, the SOR directs a collection

asset or resource to find an answer. 

A SOR is the order or request that generates

planning and execution of a collection mission or

analysis of database information and intelligence.

SORs sent to subordinate commands, to include

collection assets, are orders. SORs sent to other

commands, usually collection resources, are

requests. After SORs have been developed, the

collection manager is ready to develop the

collection plan. The collection plan will reflect the

SORs assigned to selected collectors for each IR. 

Avoid overly restrictive reporting criteria and

guidelines. Allowing collectors appropriate latitude will enable them to provide not only the

requested information, but possibly other valuable information not specifically requested. A

sample SIR follows.

During wargaming, a regimental commander tells the S-2 “In order to commit our reserve I 

need to know if that tank regiment will turn east or west at Tonbak.” The collection manager 

refines this into the PIR “Will the 3d Tank Division enter NAI 8 or NAI 9 on the evening of

5 May?” (triggers regimental reserve)

Note how the PIR is tied to a decision. The results of collection, i.e., the friendly responses, are 

stated as a decision trigger. The IR, as received and worded, is a good one for beginning 

focused requirements development. It already contains a reasonably detailed description of 

what the commander needs to know, where to find the intelligence, and when the event is 

expected to occur. However, the CRM needs to supply the COM and collection mission planners with more detail to support their planning and the subsequent development of SORs. 

Thus, the CRM concentrates on identifying good indicators to confirm or deny the information 

desired. One indicator is “movement south of the enemy’s 3d Tank Division.” The collection 

manager then develops the following sets of SIRs designed to support the same PIR:

z “Will more than 220 combat vehicles of the 3d Tank Division pass through NAI 8 or NAI 9

between 051400 and 060400 March?”

z “Will more than 17 reconnaissance vehicles subordinate to the 3d Tank Division or its regiments pass through NAI 8 or NAI 9 between 041800 and 052000 March?”

z “Will more than 38 artillery weapons subordinate to the 3d Tank Division enter NAI 8 or NAI 9

between 015200 and 060200 March?”

z “Are more than 2 R-XYZ radios active in NAI 8 or NAI 9 before 060200 March?”

SIR: “Will more than 17 reconnaissance vehicles 

subordinate to the 3d Tank Division or its regiments pass through NAI 8 or NAI 9 between 

041800 and 052000 May? LTIOV: 052000 May.”

SOR 1A: “Report the presence of reconnaissance vehicles in NAI 8 or NAI 9 between 041800 

and 052000 May. Specify direction of movement 

and numbers and types of vehicles. LTIOV: 

052000 May.”

SOR 1B: “Report the presence of communications nodes associated with reconnaissance 

elements of the 3d Tank Division or its subordinate regiments in NAI 8 or NAI 9 between 041800 

and 52000 May. LTIOV: 052000 May.”
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 2-9 

Collection Assets/Resource 

Selection Factors 

After defining ICRs and supporting SIRs/SORs,

the collection manager must determine the availability and capability of collection assets and

resources that may contribute to ICR satisfaction. The collection manager compares the characteristics of the target with the specific aspects

of the requirement and the characteristics of

available assets or resources to determine the collectors to select. This step involves a cooperative and coordinated effort for both the CRM and

COM processes. 

The four basic factors that influence selection are

capability, suitability (or feasibility), redundancy/

multiplicity, and balance. Other factors to consider are target key elements, collection capabilities, correlation, and the environment.

Capability

Is the asset/resource physically and technically

capable of collecting the required information on

the particular target of interest within the limitations imposed by the requirement? To decide if

an asset or resource can collect the data, the collection manager considers a range of operational

and technical factors that include key element

sets of the target, geography, weather conditions,

and threat activity. These factors are then correlated or compared to asset and/or resource availability and capability factors; e.g., platform and

sensor range, preparation and system timeliness

or characteristics of sensor. 

Suitability (or Feasibility)

Is the asset/resource actually suitable to perform

the mission, whether alone or in combination with

other collectors? The collection manager determines if the different collection/intelligence disciplines have a high confidence level of successfully

executing assigned missions given their unique

capabilities and limitations. These capabilities and

limitations are generally focused on technical or

performance characteristics, range, dwell time, and

timeliness.

Redundancy/Multiplicity

Should another collector be tasked to collect

against the same requirement to provide redundancy or to pose a detection dilemma for the

enemy? In some cases a collection asset or

resource may not be able to fully satisfy a

requirement. To achieve a greater degree of satisfaction, the collection manager employs redundancy of tasking to other collectors. Redundancy

employs a collection strategy that involves the

use of several same-discipline assets to cover the

same target. Redundancy is used on high priority targets when the probability of any one system

adequately collecting is low. The collection manager also mixes different sensors in different

intelligence disciplines to achieve combined arms

effects on an enemy target.

Balance

Are any collection assets/resources overtasked

and others underutilized? Proper balance ensures

the efficient tasking and employment of all

organic and supporting intelligence and reconnaissance assets without overburdening/overcommiting any or underusing others.

Target Key Elements

Key element sets are the parameters of the target’s characteristics that can be compared with

characteristics of the available collection assets

and/or resources to serve as discriminators in discipline or sensor selection. The key elements

commonly considered are target characteristics,

range to the target, and timeliness.

Target characteristics are the discernible physical,

operational, and technical features of a unit,

object, event or other intelligence target. These

characteristics may be observable and collectible. Observables are the unique descriptive features associated with the visible description (or
2-10 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

signature) of the target, whether it is specific

units, equipment or facilities. Collectibles are

unique descriptive features associated with emanations from the target. Observables are associated with emanations via IMINT, HUMINT, CI

and ground/air reconnaissance; collectibles with

SIGINT and CI; both associated with measurement and SIGINT.

Range is measured as distance from a predetermined reference point to the target location. The

range to the target can be used to quickly eliminate from consideration those standoff sensors

that cannot cover the target area and those sensors on penetration platforms that cannot reach

the target area.

Timeliness refers to a comparison of the demonstrated system timeliness of a collection asset or

system with the time the ICR must be satisfied by

the published LTIOV. 

Collection Capabilities 

The collection manager translates the capabilities

and limitations of available collectors into a set of

collection capability factors that can be directly

compared to the key target element sets. The

capabilities and limitations of the various collectors are considered, together with their availability, to determine if they should be tasked. Sensor

capability factors are technical or performance

characteristics, range, dwell time, and timeliness. 

Performance characteristics are concerned with

the system’s ability to collect the needed information, output quality, and geolocational accuracy. A collector within a particular discipline

may or may not be able to collect information on

a particular target. The data quality relates to the

level of detail derived from the collected information; e.g., different imagery systems provide

varying degrees of imagery resolution. The

importance of geolocational accuracy depends on

the planned use of the information collected; e.g.,

targeting demands greater locational accuracy

than information collected for threat unit identification and order of battle updates.

Range deals with the collector’s ability to provide

target coverage. For airborne systems, range is

determined by considering the actual range capabilities of the aircraft and its collection system to

provide detailed information sufficient to satisfy

the requirement and any operational or fire support restrictions placed on it. The CRM process

assesses combinations of these range factors to

determine the collector’s potential to meet the

tactical ICR.

Dwell time is the length of time a given collector

can maintain access to the target, an important

consideration during collection monitoring, particularly during high tempo operations. 

Timeliness considers the time required to complete each collection event and is calculated or

estimated for each available sensor based on the

tactical situation. Times vary depending on mission priority assigned, specific system availability, time required to plan the mission, and related

information processing and dissemination means.

These times are added to find an overall elapsed

time, then compared with the latest timeliness

information stated by the requirement originator.

Correlation

Correlation is the process that associates and

combines independent data on a single subject to

improve collection reliability or credibility. Key

target element sets are compared with collection

capability factors to provide a preliminary list of

units and sensors that are technically able to collect the desired data within range to the target and

time required.

Environment

After correlation, candidate sensors are compared with environmental factors to support

final sensor selection. Environmental factors

include collector vulnerability to the threat,

weather and light conditions, and terrain that

might influence the collector’s ability to acquire

the necessary information. Depending on the

environment, a technically capable sensor may

be dropped from consideration.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection ________________________________________________________________________________ 2-11 

Sensor vulnerability is the degree to which adversary fires countermeasures (deception, camouflage, and operations security) will affect sensor

selection and depends on the vulnerability of the

sensor platform. In general, the platforms of penetrating sensors are the most vulnerable, stand-off

sensors less so, and satellite sensors the least vulnerable. Threat assessment is an evaluation of

risk versus potential intelligence gain.

Weather and light conditions are considerations,

particularly with imagery and visual collection

sensors. Weather conditions in and around the

target area affect the sensor capability to collect

and exploit data.

Terrain is also a consideration. It may mask a

target, thereby dictating the direction a sensor

must point or locate, which will influence

ingress/egress route planning for penetration sensors, flight paths, loiter tracks for standoff sensors and/or satellites, SIGINT collection/direction

finding site selection or additional radio communications relay needs.

Intelligence Collection Planning

Compilation of ICRs and SIRs is the basis of the

collection plan. Collection planning is defined as

a continuous process that coordinates and integrates the efforts of all collection assets and

resources. The CRM cycle begins with initial

efforts to answer the IRs, particularly the commander’s PIRs, established during the planning

and direction phase of the intelligence cycle.

Based on these requirements, intelligence analysts prepare RFIs. In the context of collection

management, RFIs are queries to see if the information and intelligence already exists. If not,

they form the basis for the ICRs and IPRs. When

the RFI manager positively determines that the

information is neither available nor extractable

from archived information or from other intelligence sources, an intelligence gap is identified. It

then becomes the responsibility of the collection

manager to obtain the information.

The collection plan includes the supported IRs,

SIRs, when the information is needed, reporting

criteria, who is to receive the finished intelligence, and how it is to be used. The information

collected to satisfy these ICRs will answer the IR

or be used in intelligence analysis and production. The collection plan forms the basis for further collection actions. The collection plan is

integrated and coordinated, selecting the best collectors to satisfy each requirement. It will be a

text, graphic or combined representation of the

collection strategy. The collection plan may be a

simple hardcopy or automated worksheet used

solely by the intelligence section, or a more formal, comprehensive document, depending on the

complexity of the requirements to be satisfied.

Regardless of whether automated or manual tools

are used, the basic content of the collection plan

includes the following:

z IRs.

z Indicators.

z SIRs.

z Collection assets and resources to be

employed.

z Reporting criteria and instructions.

z Remarks. 

IRs Worksheet

The IRs worksheet is a useful tool for tracking

the status of IRs. The format is established by

unit procedures or may be established within the

OPLAN/OPORD. See figure 2-3 on page 2-12

and appendix A for a detailed description.
2-12 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Intelligence Collection Worksheet

The intelligence collection worksheet is a useful

tool for linking IRs to collection assets. The format is established by unit procedures or may be

established within the OPLAN/OPORD. See

appendix B for a sample intelligence collection

worksheet.

Reporting

Specific reporting criteria instructions are

included. Normally, the place where information is reported is the unit that submitted the

requirement. 

Collection and Related Planning Tools

Although the collection management process has

been formalized for quite some time, it remains

dynamic and continually evolving. Technological advances have increased the timeliness of collections planning, direction, and execution.

Many collection planning tools have emerged

that provide significant improvements to the process. The most important of these follow:

z Standard collection plan format. The collection plan establishes guidance for intelligence collection activities and tasks collection

assets. See appendix C for a sample intelligence collection plan. It contains specific

orders for subordinate elements to collect and

report information.

z Collection tasking worksheet. This management tool assists the collection manager in

identifying a specific collector, system or discipline best suited to collect against a particular

information requirement. See figure 2-4. 

MEF IR Number Requester Number DTG Received Subject Action Status

04-1012 1st Marine Division 

Number 04-001

090830 Jan Recon Activity in NAI 

32

SOR Numbers

04-1462 (UAV)

04-1463 (GSP)

04-1464 (Force 

Reconnaissance)

Closed 091630 Jan

04-1014 MEF G-2/P&A Cell 101100 Jan Imagery of landing 

beaches

Forwarded to JTF J-2 

or national collection

Pending

Figure 2-3. Sample Intelligence Requirements Worksheet.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection ________________________________________________________________________________ 2-13 

COLLECTION TASKING WORKSHEET

Organization: Registration:

DTG: Collection Manager:

SIRs:

Time: Target Range:

Characteristics:

Assets/ 

Resources Range Timeliness Characteristic Weather Geography Threat Capability Remarks

HUMINT

CI

IMINT

COMINT

ELINT

MASINT

OSINT

Assets/Resource 

Selected: HUMINT: COMINT: MASINT: CI:

IMINT: ELINT: OSINT:

Figure 2-4. Intelligence Collection Tasking Worksheet.
2-14 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

z IPB collection techniques. When properly conducted, the results of IPB are an exceptional aid

in identifying critical gaps of information and

focusing collection requirements. The event

template and event matrix together describe the

indicators and activity expected to occur in

NAIs, targeted areas of interest, and decision

points. Using the decision support template and

a graphical or written record of COA wargaming, the collection manager can determine where

collection is required, what is to be collected,

and when the information is required. 

z Collection status update paragraph. The use of

collection status update paragraphs as part of

an intelligence summary is an effective technique to ensure all within the MAGTF are

aware of planned collection missions. In it the

collection manager provides a summary of the

unit’s collection priorities and planned operations for a specified period. The collection status paragraph can update a unit’s active and

cancelled requirements, and is a good way to

inform subordinate, adjacent, and higher headquarters units of the a MAGTF’s planned collection requirements and operations. Appendix

D provides an example of a collection status

update paragraph to a MEF intelligence summary. Items that may be included are intelligence collection priorities, cancelled

requirements, and planned intelligence collection missions. 

Intelligence and Reconnaissance

Assets Tasking

The tasking mechanism for MAGTF intelligence and reconnaissance assets is situationdependent and shaped by a number of variables. The collection manager issues orders to

those assets that are in DS or attached to his

unit. Certain external collection resources are

tasked only through structured and rigorously

enforced standards for collection requests; e.g.,

national IMINT and SIGINT systems. The

intent of these collections tasking guidelines is

to standardize the process to improve the quality and timeliness of collection operations.

Standard Formats for Asset Tasking

Tasking request formats or messages depend on

the tactical situation, type of sensor, and type of

asset or resource; i.e., organic, supporting, theater, national or multinational. Many specific

data elements in these requests and the transmission procedures are classified. In the case of

MAGTF organic and DS, requesters follow combatant command instructions provided in the unit

standing operating procedures (SOPs), theater

procedures, and OPLAN/OPORD intelligence

annexes. The Joint Tactical Exploitation of

National Systems manual and the 58-series of the

Defense Intelligence Agency Manuals (DIAMs)

provide guidance for requesting collection support from national resources. 

Guidelines for Requesting National/

Theater Collection Support

Formats to request national and theater collection

are in various DIAMs (58-series), Joint Tactical

Exploitation of National Systems manual, and

combatant and theater command TTP. Regardless

of the formats used or the mechanisms for tasking

those national/theater resources, CRM should be

guided by the following principles:

z Areas of interest. National systems are best

employed against high-priority targets outside

the range of organic or theater sensors, beyond

standoff collection range, and/or in high areas.

z Exploitation and/or analysis timeliness. Targets must be chosen such that, under applicable

timeliness constraints, exploitation reports will

reach the commander in time to react or influence decisionmaking.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection ________________________________________________________________________________ 2-15 

z Justifications. Request justifications must fully

explain the need for information and support

the priority assigned by the requester.

z Sensor capabilities. Target descriptions must

place minimum restrictions on the employment

of collection systems.

z Sensor accessibility. The targets’ accessibility

must be determined when possible before a

collection request is forwarded.

z Exploitation and/or analysis requirements clarity (concise, explicit statements of actual information needed).

z Exploitation and/or analysis requirement purpose (state the purpose of the information

desired when it will benefit the interpreter and/

or analyst).

z Preplanned collection. Preplanned target sets

submitted in advance of an operation can

relieve the workload and must be considered

where the tactical situation permits.

Production Requests

Once the unit intelligence officer determines that

the requirement cannot be met with local

resources, the requirement is forwarded up the

chain of command for satisfaction. The intelligence officer determines whether to submit the

requirement as RFI, ICR, IPR or production

request (PR).

Generally, an RFI is submitted if the requirement

is a fairly straightforward question. In a noncombatant evacuation operation, an RFI may be, “How

many personnel require evacuation?” In this case,

no extensive collection or production is required

because the intelligence is generally available.

A PR is more appropriate when the IR is complex

or substantial; e.g., “What is the capability of

country X to defend its coastline against an

amphibious assault?” This requirement may

result in an IPR for the MEF CE or a PR to the

JTF headquarters because the answer will require

the collection and analysis of a large amount of

information ranging from hydrographic conditions to available threat weapon systems. Such

analysis may be beyond the capabilities of a

small unit intelligence section and more appropriately performed at the theater or Service level

where access to information and ability to task

collection resources are greater.

A PR is also appropriate to satisfy a requirement

that may be recurring in nature or in a denied

area; e.g., “How many aircraft are maintained on

alert status at airfield Y?” If organic assets are not

available, the unit intelligence officer will submit

a request for theater and national production

assets to monitor the airfield to determine the

answer. As an RFI travels up the chain of command, it is satisfied (from available information

or intelligence or by collecting new data), converted into a PR or forwarded to the next higher

level for satisfaction. Each unit in the chain of

command validates the PR and satisfies it from

within or passes the requirement to the next

higher authority for action. 

Most IPRs are levied on the intelligence battalion, P&A company’s P&A cell, which is the

MAGTF’s principal deliberate production asset.

Based on the commander’s guidance and the G-2/

S-2’s direction, the intelligence battalion commander or ISC does the following:

z Plans, manages, and conducts MAGTF IPR

management.

z Exercises staff cognizance over MEF collection and production elements to fulfill PRs.

z Determines PRs that are produced locally and

PRs that are forwarded to the appropriate theater, Service or national Department of Defense

Intelligence Production Program (DODIPP)

production center validation officer (VO).

The VO reviews the PR, determines if to accept

and satisfy it, forward to another production center or invalidate the PR. The combatant commander, the joint force commander or the

MAGTF commander directs PR and RFI procedures, which vary from theater to theater; e.g., a
2-16 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

MAGTF preparing to deploy submits PRs

through the normal Service chain of command to

the MCIA VO. However, a MAGTF operationally assigned to a combatant commander submits

PRs through the established operational chain of

command to the VO supporting that theater. A

theater intelligence directorate (J-2) may delegate validation authority to a JTF J-2 during a crisis, providing the JTF J-2 a streamlined path for

joint intelligence center production support and

priority over other noncrisis production requirements. For most crises and contingencies, annex

B to the joint force commander’s OPLAN/

OPORD specifies policies and procedures for

requesting intelligence production support.

Production Request Format

The same basic format is generally used for RFIs

and PRs. This facilitates conversion of an RFI

into a PR at a later time. A basic level PR must

include the following:

z Organizations and specific offices or individuals requesting the product.

z A statement describing the required information and intelligence and sources consulted by

the requester and source shortcomings relative

to the request.

z LTIOV.

z Product form; e.g., hardcopy text, electronic

file on disk, and total quantity of each.

z Requirements prioritization for multiple elements.

The basic format is sufficient at lower tactical

levels. At higher levels the format becomes more

structured. Defense Intelligence Management

Document 0000-151C-95, Department of

Defense Intelligence Production Program

(DODIPP): Production Procedures, stipulates

the format for PRs, which ultimately will be forwarded to a DODIPP VO and production center.

Each combatant command defines formats and

procedures in their applicable intelligence procedure documents. The MEF CE and MSC headquarters SOP define formats for their

headquarters and subordinate elements. See also

MCWP 2-12, MAGTF Intelligence Production

and Analysis.
CHAPTER 3

INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

Collection operations management is the authoritative direction, scheduling, and control of specific

collection operations and associated processing,

exploitation, and reporting resources. (JP 1-02)

The COM process organizes, directs, and monitors the units, equipment, and personnel that actually collect the data to satisfy the ICRs.

Strategies and plans are developed for collection

to accomplish the following:

z Estimate how well a collection asset or

resource can satisfy requirements.

z Evaluate the performance of collection assets

and resources.

z Allocate and task assets or request resources.

z Monitor and report the results and status of collection efforts, organizations, and systems.

Actions taken by units explicitly to satisfy IRs are

collection operations. Considerations are similar

to any other kind of operation. Intelligence COM

is concerned with the mission management (how

to employ collection resources) and asset management (execution of collection missions) functions of the collection cycle and includes the

following:

z Mission planning and collection plan development.

z Collection asset tasking.

z Exploitation and reporting.

z Supervision of the collection effort.

z Updating the collection plan during execution.

Mission Planning and Collection 

Plan Development

Mission planning is based on the requirements

generated by the CRM process. It plans and executes operations to satisfy those requirements. It

supports the entire intelligence cycle, focusing

on the processing and exploitation, production,

and dissemination steps of the intelligence cycle

and the collection process. As an integral step in

the CRM/COM process, the collection manager

must be informed of the requirement originator’s

guidance for production and dissemination. Any

specific constraints or restraints should be identified during the CRM process and factored into

COM mission planning. 

COM mission planning is concerned with identifying, scheduling, and controlling collection assets

and/or resources. The COM planner reviews the

mission requirements for system responsiveness,

weather, threat data, and intelligence reporting

requirements. These elements are considered with

the detailed technical, CIS, administrative, and

logistical data of each tasked asset or collection

system to determine asset availability and capability. Requirements are then translated into specific

mission tasking orders.

CRM and COM processes use similar intelligence collection planning and management tools

including the following:
3-2 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

z Intelligence collection worksheet.

z Intelligence collection plan.

z Collection reports.

z Collection status update paragraph.

z Collection emphasis message.

In simple terms, COM allocates and tasks assets

and resources and monitors and reports the status

of collection operations. 

Collection Asset Tasking 

Key considerations that affect the planning and

scheduling of intelligence collection operations

follow:

z Clear communication of mission, intent, concept of operations, and tasks to those units that

must execute them.

z Ensuring suitability of intelligence collection

resources to accomplish missions and achieve

objectives, to include that of the unit and all

subordinate and supported commands. 

z Ensuring sustainability of intelligence collection operations to support current and anticipated future operations.

z Monitoring progress of intelligence collection

operations and adjusting plans to achieve collection objectives.

While much of the responsibility for most of

overall planning and direction effort rests with

the G-2/S-2’s intelligence operations officer, the

collection manager must maintain concurrent

awareness of these factors and their impact on

collection planning and operations. 

After a thorough study of availability, capability,

and performance history, the collection manager

selects the resource most capable to satisfy the

requirement. Various approaches to collection

exist. They center around three strategies or a

combination of them:

z Tasking organic or supporting intelligence and

reconnaissance resources.

z Requesting intelligence and reconnaissance

collection support from external MAGTF

forces.

z Recommending other collection tasking to subordinate elements.

Tasking Organic Collections and Production 

Assets or Supporting Collection and 

Production Resources

Although the strategy adopted by the collection

manager will always vary based on the mission

and the IRs to be satisfied, tasking organic assets

should be considered first. The advantage to this

is that the collection manager has the most control over these assets and they are generally more

responsive. The collection manager usually

understands their capabilities, limitations, and

performance history well. Generally, reconnaissance assets should not be held in reserve. A

possible exception to the policy of employing all

reconnaissance assets without a reserve is when

the collection manager is aware of a future

requirement that will need to be addressed. 

Requesting Support from External MAGTF 

Collection and Production Resources

The IRs generated in the planning cycle often

mandate employment of external resources.

When selected, requests for support from higher

headquarters, e.g., JTF, theater or national assets,

should be prepared and submitted up the chain of

command. Although external collection

resources may be more capable than some

organic assets, the collection manager runs the

risk that those external assets may already be

tasked to other competing IRs and his needs will

go unmet. Various tasking documents levy IRs

on collection resources. Some tasking mechanisms are theater- or intelligence systems-unique.

The Joint Tactical Exploitation of National Systems and various DIAMs specify procedures and

formats for requesting support from national systems or agencies. Combatant commands will

also modify, clarify or add to these procedures in

their local intelligence SOPs or TTP.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 3-3 

Tasking Subordinate Elements

Recommending collection tasking to subordinate

elements can be a lucrative source for satisfying

IRs. Even Marines not assigned to an intelligence collection unit can provide valuable information, especially when in contact.

Often times at units below the MEF CE level-particularly at the battalion or squadron level-these

taskings take the form of reconnaissance and surveillance (R&S) plans. 

A mission tasking order goes to the unit selected

to accomplish a particular collection mission.

The selected unit makes the final determination

of specific platforms, schedules, equipment, and

personnel to be employed. 

MAGTF Collection Tasking

There are many ways to task collection assets.

The primary means to task MAGTF collection

assets include the following:

z OPLAN/OPORD Intelligence Annex. Annex

B, Intelligence, of the OPLAN/OPORD is the

most commonly used vehicle for initial collection taskings. Appendix 10, Intelligence Operation Plan, contains the intelligence collection

plan (appendix 10, Tab A).

z OPORD/FRAGO Execution Paragraph. Another

tool for disseminating collection taskings is to

include those taskings in paragraph 3 of the unit’s

warning, fragmentary or OPORD or in a standalone collection unit FRAGO. Detailed coordination must be conducted with the G-3/S-3 for

this technique to succeed. Amplifying or supporting details can be included in annex B or its

appendices as required.

z RFI. RFIs are any specific, time-sensitive IRs

to support ongoing operations. It is not necessarily related to standing collection requirements or scheduled intelligence production. An

RFI is initiated to respond to tactical requirements (critical information gaps and is validated in accordance with the unit’s SOPs); e.g.,

a regimental S-2 may submit a time-sensitive

RFI requesting confirmation of the size and

composition of an enemy formation (no further

information) reported by one of its battalions at

a specific location. This would then be

researched by higher headquarters G-2 staff

and answered immediately if the information

or intelligence exists. If the information or

intelligence does not exist, the RFI would form

the basis for an ICR that may result in a

request for UAV support.

z Collection Emphasis Message. A collection

emphasis message is another tool to broadly

disseminate the MAGTF’s collection focus. It

is disseminated to higher, lower, and adjacent

units; intelligence collectors; and intelligence

exploitation and processing centers. It details

the unit’s PIR’s and associated SIRs and

SORs. The primary benefit of communicating

collection intent is the operational perspective

it provides organizations that may otherwise be

isolated from the planning process. An

informed collector can often amplify reporting

to provide an answer that goes beyond immediate questions. See appendix E for a sample

message. 

z Statement of Intelligence Interest. A statement

of intelligence interest (SII) is a comprehensive

listing of a unit’s IRs for a specified time period.

The SII usually addresses long periods of time (2

to 3 years) and identifies broad areas of interest

rather than specific information requirements

addressed by SORs. All commands larger than

battalions/squadrons should submit an SII and

update it periodically. These SIIs are used to

develop dissemination requirements for the

DODIPP. The dissemination scheme may result

in hardcopy or softcopy dissemination to units. 

Exploitation and Reporting

Exploitation of collected information and reporting

is closely associated with the management of collection assets and resources. Generally, the staff

allocated a collection capability also controls the
3-4 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

supporting processing, exploitation, analysis, and

production response. The collection manager

shares a responsibility for evaluating the collected

information. The consumer—the supported commander or his users of intelligence—ultimately

determines how well the IRs have been satisfied.

Techniques that assist in effective exploitations

include cueing, redundancy, mix, integration, and

coordination.

Cueing

Cueing uses one or more intelligence or reconnaissance asset to provide data directing collection by other intelligence or reconnaissance

elements. Cueing maximizes the efficient use of

finite collection assets in support of multiple,

often competing, intelligence collection priorities. 

Collection managers should plan to create opportunities for cued collection as part of the collection strategy; e.g., a HUMINT source may be

employed 24 hours before a UAV mission to confirm or deny activity along a key corridor. If the

HUMINT source reports the absence of activity,

the UAV mission can be redirected to another

area or used to confirm the absence of activity,

depending on the relative priority of IRs. If the

HUMINT source reports significant activity earlier than anticipated, the UAV mission may be

accelerated to collect supporting detail, or instead

retasked to another mission.

Cueing may occur dynamically (outside the collection strategy) as one intelligence or reconnaissance collector tips off another collector to a

collection opportunity. Intelligence collection

systems can drive operational tasking. This is

most common when collection on a particular

NAI triggers a decision corresponding to a decision point or fires at a target area of interest.

Examples follow:

z An aviation ground attack mission is “tipped

off” to specific threat air defense activity and

flies a different ingress-egress profile.

z Indirect artillery fires are “cued” to more precise target areas.

z Ground maneuver elements are “tipped off” to

changes in an expected enemy COA.

These examples illustrate the need for coordinating intelligence with other operations and

demand the collection manager’s active participation in the wargaming process when requirements

are initially developed, and for close coordination with current operational intelligence, operations, and fires elements.

Redundancy

Redundancy planning is part of a collection strategy using several same-discipline assets to cover

the same target. Redundancy is often used on

high priority targets when the probability of any

one intelligence or reconnaissance element adequately collecting is low. The probability of

detection increases as a function of the number of

collectors; e.g., if several SIGINT collectors

focus on a designated emitter at different times,

the probability of intercept improves, even if the

emitter operates intermittently. The chance of

acquiring accurate geolocational information

using direction finding equipment is also

improved through redundant collection tasking.

Mix

Mix means planning for complementary coverage

by a combination of assets from multiple disciplines. Intelligence and reconnaissance mix techniques increase the probability of collection,

reduce the risk of successful enemy deception,

can facilitate cueing, and provide more complete

intelligence reporting. The best mix of collectors puts the enemy in a dilemma. No matter what

the enemy does (stays still or moves out), he is

detected, identified, and possibly located; e.g.,

reconnaissance reports resupply activity within a

known assembly area; SIGINT intercept of the

associated logistics net provides unit identity,

subordination, and indications of future activity. 
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 3-5 

Integration 

Integration is the resource management aspect of

collection strategy development. It involves integrating new requirements into planned or ongoing missions. Barring a decision to use redundant

coverage for a critical target, collection managers must integrate new missions with previous

planned or ongoing missions. Integration helps

to avoid undertasking capable collectors.

Resource integration examples are:

z Adding ICRs to a light armored reconnaissance

battalion performing a zone reconnaissance

mission.

z Inserting a new ICR during a preplanned UAV

mission or replacing an existing requirement

with one of higher priority.

Coordination 

The collection manager must ensure the plan is

coordinated. The collection manager develops

SIR sets from the consolidated, validated, and

prioritized list of PIRs and IRs. SIRs complete

the collection strategy by associating each

requirement with the corresponding decisions and

time lines. Starting at the point that the commander requires intelligence to support a decision, the collection manager backward plans the

collection mission to account for mission preparation, collection, reporting, processing, analysis,

production, and dissemination.

One tool to coordinate the collection strategy

with the planned friendly and estimated enemy

operations is the intelligence synchronization

matrix. In addition to the LTIOV determined by

the prioritized IRs and associated decision and

reporting criteria, the matrix records NAIs from

the event template and reflects timelines of

expected enemy activity from the IPB event

template and the event matrix. The intelligence

synchronization matrix provides the basic structure for the more detailed collection plan. See

figure 3-1.

Report Formats

Standardized report formats support common

understanding, interoperability, and efficient dissemination of collection results and other intelligence products. Standardized formats simplify

and speed along the accurate, timely flow of

reports from information collectors to intelligence analysts and allow their rapid incorporation

via information systems into databases. Some of

the more common reports used in collection

reporting follow. 

SIGINT 

Most SIGINT reports are formatted and classified. Common reports include:

z SIGINT spot.

z SIGINT summary.

z Tactical. 

z Tactical electronic intelligence.

z Critical intelligence.

These reports disseminate time-sensitive SIGINT

information from collectors to requesters or

intelligence consumers. However, information

may also be disseminated using noncodeword

reports. Unlike standard SIGINT product reports,

noncodeword reports may be passed directly to

commanders to allow immediate tactical use.

Specific procedures for noncodeword reporting

during operations should be in the SIGINT

appendix to annex B of the OPORD. See MCWP

2-15.2.

Ground Reconnaissance 

Reconnaissance teams report to their higher echelon of command. These reports are received in

the SARC. The SARC also establishes priority

reporting criteria for each committed team based

on that team’s information requirements. Normally, teams do not maintain constant radio communication while moving and sometimes while in

observation posts, but they do monitor and transmit messages during the established windows.
3-6 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

The SARC, however, establishes around-theclock radio watches over primary and alternate

nets so that teams can communicate immediately

if necessary. Reporting windows may be established for the transmission of routine traffic or

routine reports, such as situation reports. Other

primary reconnaissance reports include:

z Size. 

z Activity.

z Location.

z Unit.

z Time. 

z Equipment.

z Hydrographic. 

z Beach survey.

z Confirmatory beach.

z Surf.

z Landing zone. 

z Road and route.

z Bridge.

z River/estuary.

See also MCRP 2-15.3B, Reconnaissance

Reports Guide.

Measurement and SIGINT 

Sensor information is like any intelligence information. It is analyzed and combined with other

intelligence information to build a complete picture of the AO and the threat. The sensor report

is the standard format used to report sensor data.

This format is used for voice, data, and hardcopy

reports. The general state of the sensor network,

changes in the status of specific strings and

TIME T + 10 T + 24 T + 36 T + 48

Friendly

Event

Threat

Event

Decision

Points

Intelligence

Event (PIR)

Intelligence and

Recon

Collectors

Penetrate 80th

Corps

Shape 90th

Corps

Shape 90th

Corps

Shape

reserve

Reserve departs

assembly

areas

Reserve deploys

combat

formation

Corps artillery

forward

deploys

Shift main

effort to

aviation combat

element

Shift shaping

actions

NAI 24-will the

reserve

reinforce

90th Corps

NAI 1-identify

reserve

assembly

areas

NAI 3-identify

reserve

locations

NAI 3-identify

Corps artillery

refueler

locations

JSTARS

Force Recon

UAV/ATARS

Radio Battalion

Ground Sensors

JSTARS JSTARS

Force Recon Force Recon

UAV/ATARS

Figure 3-1. Notional Intelligence Synchronization Matrix.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 3-7 

relays, and planned sensor operations can be

reported using the sensor status report. See

MCWP 2-15.1. 

Interrogator/Translator Operations 

Results of interrogation of enemy prisoners of

war and detainees provide a valuable source of

intelligence information. The tactical interrogation report may provide a written summary of initial or subsequent interrogations. The document

translation report may disseminate information

resulting from captured enemy document exploitation. The intelligence information report format may also disseminate information derived

from interrogation or translation. A HUMINT

appendix may be included within Annex B, Intelligence, of the OPLAN/OPORD to establish standardized reporting procedures.

CI 

CI assists in accomplishing three major objectives: 

z Screening out refugees whose very presence

threatens overall security of the force.

z Detecting enemy agents’ intent on espionage,

sabotage, terrorist or subversive missions

against the force.

z Collecting information of value to other intelligence and security agencies.

The principal reports are the CI spot report, CI

information report, and CI interrogation report.

The CI spot report is a quick response report to

get information into the all-source correlated

database. The CI information report is a standard report used to report tactical CI information. The interrogation report is used to report

interrogation information. MCWP 2-14 contains

formats and specific instructions for completing

these reports. 

IMINT 

IMINT mission results are reported in various

reports. The specific type of report used is driven

by the requirement originator’s timeliness/currency concerns; i.e., LTIOV, and the type of mission being reported. All imagery reports are

submitted via data or hardcopy format from the

processing or exploitation center to the supported unit. IMINT reports are disseminated to

adjacent and higher units. The reconnaissance

exploitation report expeditiously reports results

of an aerial imagery mission. Results should be

disseminated within 1 hour of receipt of the

imagery at the processing facility and focus

exclusively on immediate information requirements. The initial photo interpretation report provides information on imagery collection missions

not previously reported and can follow up any

issued reconnaissance exploitation report with

amplifying details. The supplemental photo

interpretation report provides information not

previously included in a reconnaissance exploitation report or initial photo interpretation report.

See DIAM 57-05, DOD Exploitation of MultiSensor Imagery, and MCWP 2-15.4.

Miscellaneous Reports 

z Response to RFI.

z Patrol. 

z Mission. 

z Ground reconnaissance or aircrew debriefing.

z Spot. 

z Bombing, shelling, and mortaring location

report.

The response to RFI report is generally submitted via data or hardcopy formats. The ground

reconnaissance and aircrew debriefs are usually

submitted via voice, however, aircrew debriefs

are often submitted via message as mission
3-8 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

reports. The bombing, shelling, and mortaring

location report contains observance of enemy

indirect fire weapons. This report is submitted

via voice communications.

Supervision of the Collection Effort

Direction of the collection effort does not end

with issuing SORs. The collection effort is continually supervised by the collection manager and

coordinated with the C2 elements of the collection asset or resources. The focus is to ensure

that collection agencies have received SORs and

that they are clearly understood. Coordination is

conducted with processing and exploitation centers and among MAGTF collection operations

officers and those of higher, adjacent, and subordinate units.

Functions

Monitoring 

Monitoring of ongoing collection operations is

conducted to ensure that PIRs and other IRs are

being satisfied and that they are done so in a

timely manner. Intelligence reports received are

reconciled with the requested LTIOV of requirements to assess the timeliness and responsiveness of the collection operations. Monitoring is

conducted by the requester, the collection manager, and the production and exploitation centers.

Evaluating 

The evaluation process tracks the status of collection requirements and provides feedback to the

requesters. When collection results are provided, the collection manager evaluates the

reports for the following:

z Completeness.

z Clarity. 

z Adherence to specified reporting criteria.

z Responsiveness to users’ intelligence and timeliness satisfaction.

z Identification of opportunities to cue other

intelligence and reconnaissance collection

resources. 

Requester feedback establishes customer satisfaction, permits tasker deletion, and frees collection

assets and resources to be redirected to satisfy

other active requirements.

Updating 

Based on the requester’s assessment of requirement satisfaction, the collection manager reviews

priorities for currency. The collection plan is

updated to include retasking (if the requirement is

not satisfied), adding new requirements based on

the impact of changes in planned friendly operations, changes in known or assessed enemy operations or canceling satisfied requirements. It is

imperative that the collection plan be continually

updated and those changes communicated to

higher, lower, and adjacent units to maximize

collection operations efficiencies.

Duties

Collection Manager 

The collection manager should prioritize IRs,

convert them into collection requirements, and

coordinate actions with appropriate collections

agencies. The collection manager must continually seek to maximize the effectiveness of limited collection resources within operational time

constraints. 

P&A Cell OIC 

Primary responsibility is to manage and supervise

the MAGTFs all-source intelligence processing

and production efforts. 

SARC OIC 

As one of the focal points for intelligence reporting from organic assets, the SARC OIC must

screen the intelligence reporting and interface

with intelligence analysts to see if reporting is

satisfying stated requirements. 
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 3-9 

Subordinate Unit Intelligence Officers 

Supervisory responsibilities at the tactical level

include ensuring that IRs are correctly prioritized

and submitted and that feedback in the form of an

evaluation is provided to the collection manager

and/or collectors. This two-way communication

enables requestors to clarify issues that may not

be understood by collectors. 

Updating the Collection Plan 

During Execution

As information is reported from collectors and

new IRs are generated throughout the MAGTF,

IRs and the collection plan require updating. If

the data is insufficient, additional collection may

be coordinated with the collection manager. At

this point, the processed requirement transitions

out of the COM cycle. The collection manager

and the P&A cell OIC, in coordination with the

SARC OIC and requesters, continually assess the

effectiveness of collection operations and how

quality and timeliness may be improved. As the

collection plan is updated, all subordinate commanders and their intelligence officers must be

informed so they may be apprised of ongoing

MAGTF intelligence collection operations.

Direct communication with those directly

affected is critical. Broad dissemination of intelligence collection plan updates may be accomplished by web-based or other automated means.
CHAPTER 4

PLANNING AND EXECUTION

The intelligence collection effort must support

and adapt to the MAGTF commander’s intent,

concepts of intelligence and operations, and the

supporting scheme of maneuver. Key questions

for operational integration include the following:

z What is the MAGTF AO and the area of interest?

z What is the MAGTF concept of operations,

task organization, and main and supporting

efforts? 

z What are the standing PIRs and IRs? Which

have been tasked to supporting units? What

specific information is the commander most

interested in; i.e., enemy ground operations,

enemy air operations, target BDA, friendly

force protection or enemy future intentions?

z What is the concept of MAGTF fires support?

How will MAGTF target development and target intelligence be conducted? What are the

specific collection needs to support these?

z What are the concepts of intelligence and operations of other JTF, component, and theater

resources? What are the task organization and

command/support relationships for all MAGTF

intelligence and reconnaissance units?

z How can naval collection assets and other Services, JTF, theater, and national collection

assets be employed and integrated to support

MAGTF operations?

Terrain

Terrain factors have a significant impact on intelligence collection operations, particularly on the

ability of certain sensors to “see” through vegetation; requirements for line of sight communications; and employment considerations in

intelligence collection operations and for the timesensitive dissemination of collected intelligence

products by MAGTF CIS. Many intelligence collection systems require line of sight with the target

area to be effective. Accordingly, collection planners must assess the effects of mountains, defilade, vegetation, and other potential terrain

obstacles on planned collection operations.

Weather

Weather is a key limiting factor in some collection operations. Bad weather may degrade identifying and locating targets. Weather can also

limit the type of collection capabilities that may

be employed. Low ceilings and poor visibility

can decrease visual reconnaissance effectiveness

and the resolution of photographic systems.

Threat

Detailed threat analysis must be conducted to

determine the intelligence collection sensors and

platforms that can be employed effectively

against a given enemy and how to employ limited

MAGTF and external resources to obtain the best

possible intelligence. Collection operations can

be hampered by the enemy’s air defense capability and his camouflage, cover, concealment, and

deception activities. Threat EW capabilities must

be determined to assess their effects on UAVs,

manned platforms radio uplink, and various

downlinks. 

Coordination with Maneuver and Fires

Maneuver and fires considerations include many

issues requiring precoordination and several organizations and command echelons needed for the

coordination. The detailed procedures needed to
4-2 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

execute maneuver and fires to collection and integration of collection operations into the MAGTF

maneuver and fires scheme should be included in

unit SOPs. Main operational issues follow:

z Requests and coordination of air support and

integration within the air tasking order.

z Fires planning and necessary fire control measures (restricted fire areas and no fire areas).

z Necessary maneuver control measures (insertion and extraction requirements and plans to

include short-notice emergency extractions).

z Collectors operating within subordinate unit

AO under a wide range of command relationships.

z Collection missions being tasked to nonprimary intelligence collectors; i.e., infantry battalions, combat engineers, and pilots.

z Emergency action planning, to include escape

and evasion planning.

z Other tasks to be performed or supported by

other MAGTF units; e.g., sensor inserts.

z Integrating collectors within landing and other

movement plans.

z Coordination, deconfliction, and management

of UAV operations with other MAGTF air

operations. 

Communications and Information Systems

Whether communications are analog or digital,

voice or data, secure or nonsecure, there are hosts

of technical details to be addressed in the planning stages to ensure collection activities succeed. Key CIS requirements and planning

considerations to support MAGTF collection

operations follow: 

z Ensure that the MAGTF CE G-2/S-2, intelligence battalion, intelligence collection elements, and other MAGTF units are included in

the distribution of intelligence-related address

indicator groups to receive pertinent JTF, theater, and national intelligence and CI products.

z Determine and coordinate radio nets requirements, supporting frequencies, and operational

procedures; e.g., external to MAGTF, internal

MAGTF, intelligence broadcasts, retransmission

sites, routine and time-sensitive operations.

z Coordination of CIS activation and restoration

priorities and supporting procedures.

z Communications security material system

requirements for unique collection-related

communications and related security material.

z Determine and coordinate wire communications, including telephones.

z Establish, operate, and manage unique collection communications.

z Determine and coordinate local and wide area

networks and unique intelligence networks

information systems requirements; e.g., hardware, software, Internet protocol addresses.

z Integrate collection element CIS operations

with those of other MAGTF and pertinent JTF

and other components intelligence and reconnaissance units; e.g., mutual support, cueing.

z Communications integration of collection elements employed in general support (GS) with

other MAGTF elements; e.g., to provide timesensitive reporting, coordination of maneuver.

z Coordination of collection CIS and dissemination operations and procedures with allied and

coalition forces.

z Manual dissemination procedures; e.g., courier

must be established and practiced.

Combat Service Support Availability

Logistical considerations affecting collection

operations include the following: 

z Batteries and other power requirements.

z Transportation.

z Water.

z Food.

z Ammunition.

z Integration of collector’s embarkation and load

plans into those of the supported unit.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 4-3 

Employment of MAGTF Intelligence Units

MAGTF intelligence units are employed to meet

the requirements of the entire force. The MAGTF

G-2/S-2 develops a concept of intelligence support, which employs these units on the basis of

the MAGTF mission, PIRs, concept of operations, and commander’s intent. This concept must

integrate intelligence activities with operations to

provide key intelligence to commanders to enable

rapid and effective decisionmaking. Based on the

results of IPB analysis and the concept of operations, assets are positioned to—

z Satisfy PIRs.

z Expose enemy vulnerabilities.

z Monitor key locations.

z Detect and assist in the engagement of targets.

z Identify opportunities as they arise in the battlespace.

Intelligence units are employed in GS or DS.

Under GS, units are tasked by the MAGTF commander through his G-2/S-2 to satisfy the requirements of the entire force. Because of the limited

number of specialized intelligence assets and their

ability to develop intelligence that is relevant to

current and future operations in all areas of the

battlespace (deep, close, and rear), GS is the preferred support relationship. Under DS, the

requirements of a supported commander are given

priority. DS is used to focus intelligence support

for particular phases of an operation or create

enhanced intelligence nodes to support MAGTF

subordinate elements. When MAGTFs smaller

than a full MEF are deployed, they will normally

be supported by attached, task-organized detachments from the intelligence battalion, the force

reconnaissance company, and the radio battalion.

Focused Intelligence Support

Intelligence must be integrated with the mission,

commander’s intent, and concept of operations

and should normally be weighted to support the

main effort. The MAGTF intelligence structure

has the flexibility to tailor its capabilities to meet

the requirements of various types of expeditionary operations, and adapt to changing operational

needs during execution. For each operation, the

MAGTF G-2/S-2 will assess IRs and develop a

concept of intelligence support that positions

assets where they can best satisfy those requirements. Intelligence nodes will focus support

within the MAGTF. Split-basing will build intelligence nodes within and outside the AO to

deliver comprehensive and reliable intelligence

support while reducing the size of the deployed

force. Intelligence units and DS teams are

employed to tailor and enhance the capabilities of

organic intelligence sections or to create taskorganized intelligence nodes in response to specific requirements.

Task Organization of Intelligence 

Support Units

Task organization of intelligence support units is

one of the principal means for the MAGTF

commander to shape the intelligence effort.

Collection, exploitation, and unique production

capabilities of specialized intelligence units

significantly enhance the ability of supported G-2/

S-2 sections to develop timely, mission-focused

intelligence. Intelligence battalion, force

reconnaissance company, and radio battalion

elements task-organize to provide tailored

intelligence capabilities. Specific capabilities
4-4 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

provided are based on the threat, the supported

unit’s anticipated requirements (as determined

through IPB), and the concept of operations. 

Elements from some or all of the intelligence battalion’s subordinate companies combine into

intelligence battalion detachments. The CI/

HUMINT company provides HUMINT exploitation teams (HETs). The radio battalion forms

task-organized SIGINT support units (SSUs),

which provide a mix of SIGINT and EW capabilities. When MAGTFs smaller than a full MEF

deploy, an intelligence battalion detachment, a

HET, force reconnaissance platoons, and a radio

battalion SSU will normally be attached to the

MAGTF CE. In MEF operations, when the entire

radio battalion, intelligence battalion, and force

reconnaissance company are employed, detachments, HETs, SSUs, and platoons may be placed

in DS as required. Those subordinate units provide tailored intelligence capabilities to create an

enhanced intelligence node to support an MSC or

other MAGTF element.

Intelligence Direct Support Teams

Intelligence DS teams are organic to the intelligence battalion and each of the division, Marine

aircraft wing (MAW), and force service support

group G-2/S-2 sections. Teams are made up of

one officer and several enlisted personnel who

have a mix of intelligence specialty skills. DS

teams provide an enhanced analytical and dissemination capability to a unit intelligence section and link the intelligence structure to the

supported units. As assigned by the G-2/S-2, they

augment the supported unit’s intelligence section

to carry out the following tasks:

z Perform analysis and production to support

future operations. 

z Tailor all-source fusion center and other external source intelligence products to the needs of

the supported commander.

z Assist in the management of external intelligence support requirements.

z Facilitate dissemination of intelligence received

from external sources.

The MEF and MSC G-2/S-2s use their DS teams

to tailor and focus intelligence support to units

designated as the main effort or to create

enhanced intelligence nodes at key times and

places in the battlespace. See MCWP 2-1.

Precrisis (Garrison/Peacetime)

Intelligence Collection

The predominant collection focus during precrisis

phases is obtaining basic or encyclopedic intelligence on the AO and current intelligence on the

threat. In researching current or basic intelligence, intelligence analysts will consult various

databases or online sources. National and theater resources are relied on heavily. 

The Planning Phase

The planning phase is a critical phase where the

foundation of intelligence preparation is set for

the duration of the operation. There is an enormous demand for intelligence information and

pressure to produce a high volume of intelligence in a very short time. The paradox is that

although requirements will be very high, intelligence personnel are constrained by a lack of

physical ability to collect before actual contact

and a short time span to produce results. The

lack of time is complicated by a need to prepare

the intelligence collection section and units to

conduct predeployment activities. Reliance on

national and theater intelligence resources is still

the predominant theme. The primary focus of

collection is on basic or encyclopedic intelligence if this was not adequately done during the

precrisis phase; otherwise the collection effort is
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ 4-5 

concentrated more on supporting current and

estimative intelligence in support of operational

planning. During planning, intelligence focuses

on describing the battlespace through IPB and

satisfying the commander’s critical IRs and

related PIRs. See MCWP 5-1, Marine Corps

Planning Process.

Intelligence Collection During Execution

Intelligence collection during execution differs

significantly from intelligence collection during

planning. 

Intelligence collection support during the precrisis or warning phases requires developing a large

volume of basic intelligence and preparation of

broad-scope estimates needed to develop and analyze COAs. However, intelligence collection support during the execution phase must try to satisfy

a much larger body of IRs in a significantly

greater degree of detail. For example, the nature

of the intelligence required by a MAGTF commander to decide if a noncombatant evacuation

operation is feasible differs radically from the

type and detail of intelligence required by the mission commander who will execute the operation. 

Another major difference is the time available to

satisfy IRs. In the execution phase there is a significant increase of time-sensitive IRs. Intelligence

must often be developed in hours, minutes or even

seconds. Success often depends on the ability to

provide immediate answers to critical questions

regarding threat force dispositions and intentions. 

Once the execution phase begins, the clash of

opposing forces normally causes significant

changes in the situation. The changing nature of

requirements accelerates. Predicting enemy

capabilities and intentions becomes increasingly

difficult once the execution phase begins, but it is

specifically during this period that the commander requires detailed and accurate intelligence to reduce uncertainty. 

National and theater resources continue to be

employed but a greater reliance may be placed on

organic assets, particularly those in support of

forward-deployed forces. Collection planning

remains centralized but may be decentralized

once a main effort is established and assets are

attached to or placed to support the main effort.

The combined factors of the wide-ranging nature

of IRs, the degree of detail required, the limited

time available, and the uncertainty inherent during execution combine to make collection support

to execution the most significant intelligence

challenge. Collection managers must be prepared

to meet this challenge and provide the flexibility

required to deliver continuous situational awareness, identify opportunities, and facilitate rapid

decisionmaking during execution. 

Current Operations

The collection support effort during current operations consists primarily of answering previously

developed intelligence reporting criteria and

emerging requirements that arise as opposing

forces clash. Coordination of ongoing and

planned collection operations with other intelligence collectors and all current operation centers

or battlefield agencies is emphasized. Factors

critical to ensuring timely and effective dissemination are established and intelligence reporting

criteria are widely disseminated. Each intelligence collector or the reporting unit; i.e., SARC

or reconnaissance operations center, must be able

to evaluate and assess the relevance of information to the ongoing operations. Each piece of collected data must undergo an immediate tactical

processing and assessment before dissemination.

A keen situational awareness and understanding

of the unit’s OPLAN/OPORD is required by all

intelligence personnel, including collection managers and SARC personnel. Support must include

intelligence collection to support deep and rear

operations, resisting the natural tendency to focus

on the close battle. Support to current operations
4-6 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

must be balanced against the requirement to support future operations. All assets cannot be

devoted to current operations at the expense of

supporting planning for future operations.

Future Operations

Intelligence collection support to future operations

represents only a small portion of the collection

effort, but merits discussion. Support is influenced

by the timeframe and scope of the operation, level

of command, identification of PIRs, and availability of collectors. One collection strategy discussed

earlier endorsed “fencing of collection assets.”

One of the primary contributions of intelligence

collection support to future operations is support to

BDA that inputs to combat assessment, which in

turn helps determine the nature of future operations. The collection operations officer’s role is

crucial. Continuous interaction by the collection

operations officer and the intelligence plans officer

in the future operations cell and the MAGTF P&A

cell OIC is key to focusing intelligence collection

efforts to support future operations. As decisions

are made, ICRs and priorities for specific collection missions and tasks are generated and assessed

against previously identified requirements. 
APPENDIX A

SAMPLE INTELLIGENCE REQUIREMENTS WORKSHEET

Column 1: The MEF IR number for ease of tracking.

Column 2: The originating requester IR number is posted to correlate subordinate requirements with the

MAGTF. If the requirement is generated by the MAGTF CE, list that office. Note: for requirements that

are forwarded to higher headquarters, no notation is made.

Column 3: When the information requirement is received.

Column 4: A succinct description indicating the information requirement subject.

Column 5: What SORs are germane to this requirement. Note: one example identifies the collection system tasked to satisfy each SOR.

Column 6: The information requirement is still active, pending or closed.

MEF IR Number

(1)

Requester IR 

Number (2)

DTG Received

(3)

Subject

(4)

Action

(5)

Status

(6)

04-1012 1st Marine Division 

Number 04-001

090830 Jan Reconnaissance 

activity in NAI 32

SOR Numbers

04-1462 (UAV)

04-1463 (GSP)

04-1464 (Force 

Reconnaissance)

04-1013 MEF Engineer 090900 Jan Obstacle system at 

Objective SCHMIDT

For situation template Closed 091630 Jan

04-1014 MEF G-2/P&A Cell 101100 Jan Imagery of landing 

beaches

Forwarded to JTF J-2 

for national collection

Pending
APPENDIX B

SAMPLE INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION WORKSHEET DESCRIPTION

Period Covered (From 21 Jan ____ to 

Seizure of Objective Schmidt)

Collection planning for a particular operation

commences with the receipt or deduction of a

mission by the commander and continues until

the mission is accomplished. The collection

worksheet covers the period from initiation of

planning until accomplishment of the mission.

However, in an amphibious operation, certain IRs

may be directly related to various phases of the

operation or must be satisfied as a prerequisite to

other planning; e.g., IRs about location of suitable beaches or helicopter landing zones must be

satisfied long before the actual assault. Therefore, the period entered at the top of the form may

be less than that of the plan as a whole. The

worksheet must be revised as IRs develop or no

longer apply, as available collection agencies

change in number and type, and as specific collection missions become obsolete. To accommodate the revisions, a collection worksheet should

be maintained in loose leaf form.

Column 1, PIRs

Lists the IRs that must be satisfied. These

include the PIRs and other IRs.

Column 2, Indicators

For each PIR and IR, the intelligence officer lists

the indicators derived from an analysis of the

enemy and the characteristics of the objective

area or target indicator for each PIR/IR.

Indications are positive or negative evidence.

There usually is more than one indicator for each

PIR/IR. When available, they will satisfy the

particular requirement. Indications form the basis

for developing SIRs and SORs for the collection

of information. 

Column 3, SIRs

Contains the specific information required; i.e.,

“the collectible info” that will substantiate or

refute each indication listed in column 2.

Having determined what indications point to the

solution of a particular IR, the intelligence officer

next determines what information is needed to

substantiate or refute each indication. For example, if removal of mines and obstacles is an indication of an enemy attack, then the SIR is if the

enemy is actually removing mines and obstacles. 

Reluctance of prisoners to remain in forward

areas may be an indication of enemy preparations to employ nuclear weapons. The SIR is

whether or not prisoners demonstrate any marked

eagerness to be evacuated from the combat area. 

Improvement of enemy positions may be an indication of defense. The SIR is if the enemy is

actually improving his positions.

Information to be sought then becomes the basis

for SORs for collection of information. A collection agency in most cases is not assigned full

responsibility for establishing that any particular

indication exists. 

For example, increased patrolling may be an indication that an enemy is preparing to attack. A

rifle company would not be asked if there was an

increase in enemy patrol activity in its sector.

Instead, the specific information to be sought that

forms the basis for an order to the company

would be to report the frequency of enemy

patrols encountered in its sector. 
B-2 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Another indication of attack might be forward

echeloning of artillery. The specific information

to be sought by a collection agency is not if artillery is being echeloned forward but to report the

location of artillery in certain forward areas.

In the above two examples, the intelligence

officer is the one in the best position to make

proper deductions. From the information he

receives and after comparison with information

already available, the intelligence officer can

deduce if there has been an increase in enemy

patrolling, and if the enemy artillery is being echeloned forward to support the attack.

The intelligence officer carefully studies the AO

and the known enemy situation to focus the collection effort on a specific area; e.g., in developing specific information to be sought on possible

enemy reinforcement, the intelligence officer

studies the road nets and suitable avenues of

approach to determine logical routes that enemy

reinforcements would move. The specific information to be sought then becomes the volume

and type of traffic along a particular road or in a

particular area. The intelligence officer then has

a basis for developing plans for aerial reconnaissance or establishing observation posts. 

Column 4, Agencies to be Employed

List all currently available agencies. The list

includes not only subordinate units but also

higher and adjacent commands that gather information of value. In addition to troop units, the

list of agencies includes intelligence specialists

such as CI, imagery interpretation, and interrogation-translator personnel. The listing of troop

units is not restricted to combat elements. 

Following his determination of the specific information to be sought, the intelligence officer

selects the collection agencies that will be tasked

to furnish information. In making his selections,

he is guided by considerations of capability, suitability, multiplicity, and balance.

Orders and RFIs are issued only to those agencies

that are physically capable of providing it in time

of use. The intelligence officer must be cognizant of the location, status, and current and projected missions of all available agencies.

Agencies selected to gather information are those

best suited for the task; e.g., a trained force

reconnaissance unit is normally better suited for

amphibious reconnaissance than a patrol from a

rifle company. An information collection mission is consistent with the tactical or logistics

officer. Suitability also includes consideration of

economy of force. Before an agency is selected

for a particular task, the intelligence officer considers what other collection tasks the agency

might accomplish simultaneously. 

Information is evaluated and interpreted to derive

intelligence. Accurate evaluation requires comparison of information obtained from several

sources and agencies. Whenever possible, the

intelligence officer selects more than one agency

to collect information (redundancy).

Finally, the intelligence officer endeavors to balance the collection workload among available

agencies. Although desirable, balance is the least

important consideration in the selection of agencies, and more often, careful consideration of

capabilities and suitability results in adequate distribution of the workload.

Column 5, Place and Time to Report 

Reflects the place and time that information is to

be reported. Information that arrives too late is of

no value. The intelligence officer must effectively meet the needs of the commander, other

staff officers, and higher, adjacent, and subordinate units. 

z Be specific, especially for electronic reporting. When reporting via automated information and communications systems, a requester

should be very specific; e.g., if an actual image
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ B-3 

is requested, how should it be disseminated?

Posted on a classified web page? Posted on an

imagery dissemination server? If so, which

one? If an electronic file transfer is desired,

what is the Internet protocol address and circuit

the requester uses? Any special report formatting requirements should be included if a nonstandard product is requested. 

z One-time versus periodic reporting. For reconnaissance missions, one-time reporting may be

sufficient. For surveillance missions, periodic

reporting is usually required. Requirements

supporting target or area surveillance should

have details on how frequently reports are to

be generated. 

z Include LTIOV. The LTIOV is an appropriate

entry in the reporting column. Entries may

specify an exact time for reporting and/or notlater-than times for periodic reports (or at such

times that information is obtained). Negative

reports, if desired, are also indicated.

z Routine vs time-sensitive. Clearly identify criteria and reporting channels for routine and

time-sensitive reports.

Column 6, Remarks

Miscellaneous remarks on the progress of the collection are recorded in column 6 of the worksheet. The intelligence officer develops a simple

code to indicate PIRs/IRs that require revision or

cancellation. Prompt cancellation of orders and

requests for collection of information, including

PIRs, is mandatory if the efforts of collection

agencies are to be focused properly. A unit SOP

for intelligence functioning normally provides for

routine reporting of certain types of information.

A note is made in the collection worksheet when

certain information requirements are covered by

the SOPs; e.g., the reporting of minefields may

be prescribed by the unit SOP. A requirement for

information on the enemy’s use of mines can be

handled by placing “SOP” in column 6, and

responsibility need not be indicated under agencies. However, a requirement for reporting the

location of minefields in the vicinity of a specific

area is not treated as an SOP item. Finally, the

intelligence officer notes those specific information requirements that can be combined into a

single order of request to an agency. 
B-4 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2 PIRs Indicators SIRs Agencies to be Employed Place and Time to Report Remarks

D

I

V

M

A

W

F

SS

G

CI/ 

HU

M

I

N

T

V

M

U

R

ad

B

n

V

M

A

Q

F

o

r

c

e

R

e

c

on

G

SP

Will the 3d Tank Division enter NAI 8 or 9 on the evening of 22 January?

Dispersal of tanks and self-propelled artillery to forward positions.

Will more than 220 combat vehicles of 3d Tank Division pass through NAI 8 or 9 between 221600 and 230400 January? Will more than 38 artillery weapons subordinate to 3d Tank Division enter NAI 8 or 9 between 221600 and 230400 January?

X X X X X X X Report by fastest 

means to MEF G-2 LTIOV: 230400 January

Increased communications by 3d Tank Division elements.

Are enemy tactical radios active in NAI 8 or 9 before 230400 January?

X X X X X Report by fastest 

means to MEF G-2 LTIOV: 230400 January

Figure B-1. Sample Intelligence Collection Worksheet.
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CLASSIFICATION

APPENDIX C

SAMPLE INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION PLAN

 CLASSIFICATION

Copy no.___ of___ copies

Headquarters, (MAGTF)

PLACE OF ISSUE

Date/time group

Message reference number

TAB A (Intelligence Collection Plan) TO APPENDIX 10 (Intelligence

OPLAN) TO ANNEX B (Intelligence) TO OPLAN

(U) REFERENCES:

(a) Theater TTP

(b) MEF Tactical SOP

(c) MCWP 2-1

1. (U) Situation. Remaining Orange Force is defending against the Blue 

Force’s advance to prevent the destruction of the ruling regime in the capital city 

of Orangeville. They intend to delay and attrite Blue Force to such an extent 

that US resolve to continue the war will fail, allowing the Orange regime to survive through diplomatic means.

(a) (U) See FRAGO. 

(b) (U) Enemy situation. 

(c) (U) Most dangerous COA.

(d) (U) Most likely COA.

2. (U) Mission. To provide R&S of MEF battlespace to support Blue Force 

attacks in zone, confirm conditions for amphibious landing, and determine status of Orange Force’s location.

3. (U) Execution

a. (U) National and theater collection will be requested to support MEF 

deep IRs (beyond forward boundary/deep battle synchronization line), 

threats to MEF flanks and logistic support bases, and against threats within 

MEF’s boundaries beyond organic collection capabilities. Of particular in-
C-2 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Page number

CLASSIFICATION

CLASSIFICATION

terest are enemy strategic and operational reserve forces that could influence MEF advance, and indications of Orange Force use of weapons of mass destruction.

(1) (U) In accordance with references (a) and (b), and as the Blue Force supporting 

effort during this operation, MEF battlespace R&S will rely heavily on organic aviation and battlefield surveillance/collection assets to satisfy IRs to support the close 

and deep fight.

(2) (U) Due to the location of the ground component commander to the flank and 

rear, and the commander, amphibious task force (CATF)/commander, landing 

force (CLF) relationship to execute an amphibious landing, MEF will request lateral intelligence reporting from the ground and naval component commanders. Lateral ground component commander intelligence reporting to MEF will facilitate 

cross-boundry operations and rear area operations/support requirements. Lateral 

naval component commanders intelligence reporting will support the movement of 

MEF’s operating in littoral areas, and assist in determining enemy activity within 

the battlespace.

(3) (U) Upon chop of the CLF to MEF, selected R&S assets DS of CATF will become operational control to the MEF G-2.

(4) (U) Organic Focus. All organic R&S assets will focus on satisfying MEF 

PIRs/IRs. Ground-based SIGINT collection will focus on indications and warning 

force protection reporting to the supported commander. Forward CI and HUMINT 

assets will provide the supported commander with tactical interrogations and refugee debriefs; rear area CI assets will provide CI force protection source operations. 

MEF ground R&S operations will provide continuous observation and operate in 

vicinity of MEF NAIs and targeted areas of interest as directed. Visual aerial reconnaissance will provide timely battlespace awareness within the MEF AO, and 

support time-sensitive and ad hoc emerging IRs utilizing in-flight and post mission 

reporting. Ground sensor operations will be focused along major lines of communications (LOCs) and boundaries within and along the MEF area of responsibility. 

Organic MEF UAVs will be flown in GS of MEF operating forces. All collection 

disciplines will support personnel recovery operations as required.

b. (U) Concept Of Operations

(1) (U) The MEF R&S Plan will be divided in the following three stages:

z Stage A: Prechop of landing force.

z Stage B: Postchop of landing force.

z Stage C: Seizure of Orangeville.
MAGTF Intelligence Collection ________________________________________________________________________________ C-3 

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CLASSIFICATION

CLASSIFICATION

(2) (U) Stage A: Prechop of Landing Force. During Stage A, R&S focus will be—

z Protection of our MEF units. 

z Intentions of enemy forces able to influence MEF flanks, the amphibious

landing zone or moving into adjacent units.

z Determining if conditions are met for MEF to assume operational control of

landing force.

z Disposition of Orange Force’s operational reserve forces that could move to

impede MEF’s movement.

z Status of LOCs.

z Disposition of enemy forces in the vicinity of Orangeville.

(3) (U) Stage B: Postchop of Landing Force. During Stage B, R&S focus will be— 

z Disposition of Orange Force’s operational reserves that could impede the

MEF’s movement or move into an adjacent unit’s zone. 

z Orange Force’s operational reserves that could attack MEF’s flanks.

z Status of LOCs from Badguyburg to Orangeville.

z Threats to MEF’s rear area.

z Potential areas for interdiction west of Orangeville.

(4) (U) Stage C: Seizure of Orangeville. During Stage C, R&S focus will be—

z Disposition of enemy forces in the vicinity Orangeville.

z Enemy forces that can influence LOCs.

z Identification of enemy units able to attack Blue Force’s flanks.

z Threats to Blue Force rear area.

z Potential areas for interdiction west of Orangeville.

z Suspected movement of Orange Force.

(5) (U) Concept for SIGINT Collection. MEF organic ground-based SIGINT collection assets are in GS of MEF and DS of the supported commander. Theater and 

national SIGINT collection will be requested as required.

(a) (U) Communications Intelligence. MEF organic ground-based communications intelligence collection will focus on indications, warning reporting, and 

force protection to the supported commander. Collection emphasis will be—

z Range Force’s corps and C2 divisions.

z Artillery fire direction nets.

z Success of Blue Force’s deception plan as to actual location of amphibious

landing site.
C-4 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

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(b) (U) Electronic Intelligence. Blue Force electronic intelligence surveillance support will focus on indications and warning reporting and force protection of Blue Force. Collection emphasis will be—

z PIR support.

z Locating remaining radar guided air defense weapons.

z Indications of possible air attacks within MEF AO.

z Indications of possible employment of weapons of mass destruction.

(6) (U) Concept for CI/HUMINT Collection. Forward CI/HUMINT assets will focus on— 

z Force protection.

z Assisting in Blue Force deception plan as to actual location of amphibious

landing site. 

z Assisting in Blue Force deception plan to convince Orange Force nationallevel commanders that MEF is the Blue Force main effort.

z Conducting tactical interrogations to support the commander’s PIRs/IRs.

Rear area CI assets will provide CI force protection source operations.

Postchop, selected CATF assets will become operational control to MEF

and report and receive tasking from the MEF G-2.

(7) (U) Concept for Ground R&S Collection. MEF ground R&S operations will be 

conducted with—

z MSC ground reconnaissance assets having collection responsibility from

forward line of troops to other phase lines in effect.

z MEF force reconnaissance assets (force reconnaissance companies and

radio battalion radio reconnaissance teams) having collection responsibility

from fire support coordination line to forward boundary/deep battle synchronization line.

z DS unconventional warfare forces having collection responsibility beyond

the forward boundary/deep battle synchronization line. Cross-boundary

ground R&S operations will be conducted by MEF vice MSC ground R&S

assets. Postchop, selected CATF ground R&S assets will become operational control to MEF, and report and receive tasking from the Blue Force

G-2.

(8) (U) Concept for Aerial Visual R&S Collection. MEF aerial visual R&S collection will center on the aviation assets of the MAW. Because of the dynamic reporting capability of aircraft operating within the Blue Force battlespace, aerial 

visual R&S will provide timely battlespace awareness, and support time-sensitive 
MAGTF Intelligence Collection ________________________________________________________________________________ C-5 

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and adhoc emerging IRs utilizing in-flight and post mission reporting. Time-critical ad hoc IRs will be forwarded to the tactical aircraft command center via the 

MEF air officer. When directed, positive and negative reporting is required in specific collection requirements or emphasis.

(9) (U) Concept for Ground Sensor Collection. MEF will provide GSP squads to 

ground maneuver commands in DS to facilitate close battle operations. GSP assets 

retained by the MEF collection management and dissemination officer will be focused along major LOCs and command boundaries within and along the MEF area 

of responsibility. Postchop, selected CATF ground sensor assets will become operational control to MEF, and report and receive tasking from the MEF G-2.

(10) (U) Concept for UAV Collection. Organic MEF UAV will be flown in DS 

and GS of MEF maneuver forces. Remote receive stations will be collocated with 

maneuver forces to allow rapid transfer of time-critical information. The aviation 

combat element commander will recommend possible forward base locations for 

future operations.

(11) (U) Concept for Aerial Imagery Collection. Requests for national and theater 

imagery collection will be forwarded to higher headquarters for satisfaction. Aerial 

imagery collection will support recurring IRs along LOCs or against point targets.

c. (U) Tasks

(1) (U) GCEs

(a) (U) 1st Marine Division (MARDIV)

1 (U) Conduct organic R&S operations in zone to the intelligence handover line in effect.

2 (U) Debrief all organic R&S teams providing intelligence reports to

MEF G-2 operations within 6 hours.

3 (U) Receive and incorporate one squad from the GSP in DS for R&S

operations. Implanting of sensors is the responsibility of supported unit.

4 (U) Assist in recovery of MEF and unconventional warfare R&S assets in zone.

5 (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection point to the central collection point by most expeditious means

possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b).

Interrogations will only be conducted by MEF HUMINT personnel.
C-6 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

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6 (U) Receive and incorporate one company (1st/2d) Radio Battalion (-)

(Reinforced) in DS.

7 (U) Receive remote receive station team from Marine unmanned aerial vehicle squadron (VMU)-1.

8 (U) Receive CI/HUMINT elements in GS.

(b) (U) 2d MARDIV

1 (U) Conduct organic R&S operations in zone to the intelligence handover line in effect.

2 (U) Debrief all organic R&S teams providing summary reports to

MEF G-2 operations within 6 hours.

3 (U) Assist in recovery of MEF and unconventional warfare R&S assets in zone.

4 (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection point to the central collection point by most expeditious means

possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b).

Interrogations will only be conducted by Blue Force HUMINT personnel.

5 (U) Receive remote receive station team from VMU-1.

6 (U) Receive and incorporate one squad from the ground sensor platoon in GS for R&S operations. Implanting of sensors is the responsibility of supported unit.

(c) (U) 3d MARDIV (Stages B and C)

1 (U) Maintain DS R&S units until notified otherwise by this HQ.

2 (U) Conduct organic R&S operations in zone as directed.

3 (U) Debrief all organic R&S teams providing intelligence reports to

the MEF G-2 operations within 6 hours.

4 (U) Assist in recovery of MEF and unconventional warfare R&S assets in zone.

5 (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection point to the central collection point by most expeditious means

possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b).

Interrogations will only be conducted by MEF HUMINT personnel.

6 (U) Receive remote receive station team from VMU-1.
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(d) (U) 4th MARDIV (Stages B and C)

1 (U) Conduct organic R&S operations in zone to established phase

lines in effect.

2 (U) Debrief all organic R&S teams providing summary reports to

MEF G-2 operations within 6 hours.

3 (U) Assist in recovery of MEF and unconventional warfare forces

R&S assets in zone.

4 (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection point to the central collection point most expeditious means possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b).

Interrogations will only be conducted by MEF HUMINT personnel.

5 (U) Receive remote receive station team from VMU-1.

(2) (U) MAW

(a) (U) Provide timely intelligence reports as required to MEF G-2 operations 

officer.

(b) (U) Use strike camera to greatest extent possible to support first phase 

BDA.

(c) (U) Conduct UAV operations from Texaco forward arming and refueling 

point until a forward site for control can safely be established and maintained.

(d) (U) Provide two man operation planning/liaison team (UAV detachment) 

to MEF SARC.

(e) (U) Provide emergency extract package of ground R&S units as required.

(f) (U) Receive a CI element in GS.

(g) (U) Conduct preplanned and ad hoc visual aerial reconnaissance.

(h) (U) Provide remote receive station team to MEF CE.

(i) (U) Provide remote receive station team to 1st MARDIV.

(j) (U) Provide remote receive station team to 2d MARDIV.

(k) (U) Provide remote receive station team to 3d MARDIV.

(l) (U) Provide remote receive station team to 4th MARDIV.
C-8 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

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(m) (U) Provide two-man UAV liaison teams to MEF SARC.

(n) (U) Conduct UAV displacement operations with minimal reduction of 

battlespace surveillance.

(o) (U) Receive ground sensor platoon liaison team to support airborne sensor 

implant planning.

(p) (U) Conduct airborne sensor implant when directed.

(3) (U) FSSG (-)(Reinforced)

(a) (U) Provide intelligence reporting of any enemy activity within AO to 

MEF G-2 operations officer.

(b) (U) Provide bridge, route, ford, and other mobility reports in accordance 

with reference (c) for all main/critical routes to MEF G-2 P&A cell.

(c) (U) Receive a CI element in GS.

(d) (U) Conduct ground sensor recovery operations when directed.

(4) (U) Rear Area Operations Group

(a) (U) Provide R&S reporting from adjacent headquarters/units to MEF G-2 

operations officer as soon as feasible.

(b) (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection 

point to the central collection point by most expeditious means possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b). Interrogations will 

only be conducted by MEF HUMINT personnel.

(c) (U) Receive a CI element in GS.

(d) (U) Conduct ground sensor recovery operations when directed.

(5) (U) Marine Engineer Group

(a) (U) Provide bridge, route, ford, and other mobility reports in accordance 

with reference (c) for all main/critical routes to MEF G-2 P&A cell.

(b) (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection 

point to the central collection point by most expeditious means possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b). Interrogations will 

only be conducted by MEF HUMINT.
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(6) (U) Force Artillery Headquarters

(a) (U) Provide counterfire battery radar reports to MEF SARC OIC as soon 

as possible.

(b) (U) Evacuate captured personnel and materiel from the forward collection 

point to the central collection point by most expeditious means possible. Enforce tagging procedures in accordance with reference (b). Interrogations will 

only be conducted by MEF HUMINT personnel.

(7) (U) MEF Organic Collection Elements

(a) (U) Force Reconnaissance Company (-) (Reinforced)

1 (U) Implant ground sensor strings and relays as directed.

2 (U) Provide two-man operational planning liaison team (force reconnaissance detachment) to MEF SARC.

3 (U) Conduct simultaneous operations to support MEF Alpha and Bravo command post displacement.

4 (U) Provide restricted fire area coordination and deconfliction of all

ground R&S assets within MEF AO.

5 (U) Provide strategic and theater ground reconnaissance planning support as required.

6 (U) Assume operational control of selected CATF ground R&S assets

postchop.

7 (U) Engage targets of opportunity with MEF force fires authorization.

8 (U) Provide targeting for fire support systems.

(b) (U) Intelligence Battalion. Provide the following R&S support:

1 (U) GSP (-) (Reinforced)

a (U) Provide one GSP squad in DS of 1st MARDIV.

b (U) Provide one GSP squad in GS of 2d MARDIV.

c (U) Provide two-man operational planning liaison team (GSP detachment) to the MEF SARC.

d (U) (U) Be prepared to conduct simultaneous operations to support MEF Alpha and Bravo command post displacement.
C-10 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

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e (U) Provide GSP liaison team to MAW for airborne sensor implant planning.

f (U) Assume operational control of selected CATF ground sensor 

assets postchop.

2 (U) CI/HUMINT Unit

a (U) Conduct CI/force protection operations in MEF AO.

b (U) Conduct HUMINT operations supporting R&S plan.

c (U) Conduct tactical interrogations to support MEF PIRs/IRs.

(c) (U) Radio Battalion (-)(Reinforced)

1 (U) Provide one company (1st/2d) Radio Battalion (-)(Reinforced) in

DS of 1stMARDIV.

2 (U) Provide a SIGINT support platoon in GS to 2dMARDIV.

3 (U) Radio reconnaissance teams will be in DS of MEF.

4 (U) Coordinate operational planning for insertion/extraction of radio

reconnaissance teams with force reconnaissance company.

5 (U) Provide two-man operational planning liaison team (radio battalion detachment) to the MEF SARC.

6 (U) Conduct simultaneous operations to support MEF Alpha and Bravo command post displacement.

7 (U) Provide electronic intelligence support for battlespace surveillance in accordance with internal SOPs.

d. (U) Coordinating Instructions

(1) (U) Assignment of Responsibility for Drafting of Tabs to this appendix. The 

MEF CM/DO will conduct a working group comprised of MSC collection requirement managers and MEF collection operation managers to discuss this appendix 

and to identify and assign initial responsibilities to execute this R&S plan. On 

completion of the working group, each command or unit responsible for the development of a supporting tab that addresses the operations management of the specific collector will draft and forward this tab to the MEF CM/DO for review and 

dissemination. When applicable, tabs should address the tasking, processing, exploitation, and dissemination of collected information from the collector to the 

MEF G-2. Command/unit responsibility for specific tabs are:
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(a) (U) Tab A: SIGINT Employment Plan. MEF SIGINT officer coordinated 

with radio battalion.

(b) (U) Tab B: CI/HUMINT Employment Plan. MEF CI/HUMINT coordinated with intelligence battalion.

(c) (U) Tab C: Ground R&S Plan. Force Reconnaissance Company coordinated with MEF SIGINT officer.

(d) (U) Tab D: Visual Aerial Reconnaissance and Surveillance Plan. MAW.

(e) (U) Tab E: Ground Sensor Surveillance Plan. Intelligence battalion.

(f) (U) Tab F: UAV Employment Plan. MAW.

(2) (U) PIRs

(a) (U) Determine if the 7th Division will attack the MEF flank from H-Hour 

to H+24.

(b) (U) Determine if the 1st Armored Brigade will displace to counter amphibious landing from H-Hour To H+36.

(c) (U) Determine if the 1st Provincial Guard Corps will defend in the vicinity of Badguyburg in regiment or larger strength from H+36 To H+96.

(d) (U) As soon as practical, MSCs will identify PIRs and submit requests for 

collection support in accordance with this appendix.

(3) (U) IRs 

(a) (U) Determine the movement of major Orange Force’s units in MEF’s area of responsibility.

(b) (U) Location of Orange Force’s long-range artillery that can range MEF 

forces.

(c) (U) Projected weather conditions.

(d) (U) Any other changes to the assessed enemy COAs.

(4) (U) NAIs. (Read across Number/Location/Description/Activity)

(a) (U) 1/Grid location/southwest movement from Nashville by 1st Armored 

Brigade. 
C-12 _____________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

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(b) (U) 2/Grid location/road junction Route 20/movement west of 1st Armored Brigade.

(c) (U) 3/Grid location/road junction I-95 and north/south Country Road/

movement west of 7th Division.

(d) (U) 4/Grid location/road/movement south of 1st Armored Brigade.

(e) (U) 5/Grid Location/Intersection Route 1 and Bangor Road/enemy movement southwest or southeast from Badguyburg.

(f) (U) 6/Grid location/Intersection Route 1 and Highway 101/east movement 

of 1st Provincial Guard Corps. 

(g) (U) 7/Grid location /road junction Route 66 and unidentified road/southeast movement of 1st Provincial Guard Corps. 

(5) (U) MEF CM/DO will coordinate and deconflict with higher headquarters 

MEF NAIs that correspond to or have been identified as a combatant commander’s 

NAI. The MEF CM/DO will also coordinate and deconflict MEF NAIs. 

(6) (U) MEF subordinate commands will prepare organic R&S plans to satisfy organic PIRs/IRs. MEF MSCs will submit organic R&S plans to the MEF CM/DO 

as directed.

4. (U) Logistics

5. (U) Command And Communications

a. (U) Command

(1) (U) Command Relationships

(a) (U) J-2 has staff responsibility for employment of theater and national intelligence collection assets.

(b) (U) MEF G-2 CM/DO is responsible for coordinating the employment of 

MEF organic R&S assets and requesting R&S support through appropriate 

channels to cover gaps in organic collection capability to support combatant 

commander and MEF PIRs.

(c) (U) The MEF SARC is responsible for:

1 (U) Initial planning and coordination for the operational employment

of MEF organic collection assets to support this operations plan. 
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2 (U) Monitoring and reporting the status and location of MEF organic

collection assets

3 (U) Collecting and reporting combat intelligence/information to the

MEF P&A cell.

(d) (U) The MEF SARC OIC will assist the MEF CM/DO in developing, publishing, and revising this appendix as required.

b. (U) Communications. MSC R&S assets will establish communications connectivity between tasked organic units and the MEF SARC via G-2 unclassified or secret 

networks. 

c. (U) Reporting. Timely reporting from organic collection operation centers via established communications paths and procedures will support reactive targeting opportunities and analysis of perishable tactical information. 

d. (U) Requesting Procedures. Requests for intelligence support beyond the capabilities of MSCs will be submitted as a production requirement/collection requirement via 

the chain of command to MEF using the procedures outlined in reference (b).
APPENDIX D

SAMPLE COLLECTION STATUS UPDATE PARAGRAPH FORMAT

Collection Status Update Paragraph. A collection status update paragraph may be included as part of a

unit’s daily intelligence summary (INTSUM) in order to notify higher, adjacent, and critically, lower units

of the MAGTF’s current ICRs and planned collection operations over some specified future period. As a

snapshot of the near term requirements, it can be used to review active and cancelled requirements and

update a unit’s collection priorities and collection plan daily. Using the basic format, units can tailor the

INTSUM to fit the situation. With new automated information systems, INTSUMs are increasingly produced in graphic form and posted on networks for wide dissemination, with links to detailed supporting

intelligence products, reports, and databases. An example of a written collection status update paragraph

follows:

COLLECTION STATUS UPDATE

A. DURING THE PERIOD 040800T TO 050759T MAR 2004, THE MEF COLLECTION PRIORITIES ARE AS FOLLOWS:

PRIORITY PIR/IR NO. ITEM

1 1 SIGINT SUPPORT TEAM (SST) A TO EXECUTE MISSION

BRAVO VIC NAI 003.

2 1 AVIATION SST UNIT TO EXECUTE MISSION CHARLIE VIC

NAI 003.

3 1 AERIAL RECON MISSIONS TO PROVIDE COVERAGE OF

I MEF AO ACCORDING TO AERIAL SURV PLAN (TRACKS

NASHVILLE AND DAYTONA) IN MOBILITY CORRIDOR

CHARLIE.

4 2 SST TEAM C TO EXECUTE MISSION ECHO VIC NAI 005.

B. CANCELLED REQUIREMENTS. THE FOLLOWING PRIORITY INTELLIGENCE REQUIREMENTS HAVE BEEN SATISFIED OR CANCELLED.

PIR NO. DESCRIPTION

5 IMAGERY AND TEXT STUDIES OF POINT OF ENTRY VIC PORT HIDALGO.

SPECIAL ATTENTION TO COASTAL LANDING BEACHES AND HELICOPTER 

LANDING ZONES.

C. PLANNED INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION MISSIONS. THE FOLLOWING MEF INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION MISSIONS ARE PLANNED FOR EXECUTION DURING THE PERIOD

050800T TO 060759T MAR 2004.
D-2 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

PRIORITY PIR/IR NO. ITEM

1 2 EA-6B/PROWLER UNIT A TO COLLECT IAW TASKING PER

AIR TASKING ORDER.

2 3 HELO INSERTION OF GROUND RECON TEAM 111 INTO 

RESTRICTED AREA OF OPERATIONS 111 VIC NAI 006.

333RD GSP TO CONDUCT SENSOR EMPLACEMENT

OPERATIONS IN MOBILITY CORRIDOR MESA.
APPENDIX E

SAMPLE COLLECTION EMPHASIS MESSAGE

FM CG I MEF//G2//CMDO//

TO CG FIRST MARDIV//G2/CM//

CG FIRST FSSG//G2/CM//

CG THIRD MAW//G2/CM//

INFO CG II MEF//G2/CM//

CG III MEF//G2/CM

CJTF BLUE

UNCLAS N03800//

EXERCISE EXERCISE EXERCISE

MSGID/CEM/I MEF G2/001//

SUBJ/COLLECTION EMPHASIS MESSAGE//

REF/A/DOC/I MEF EXERCISE OPORD 04

REF/B/MAP/NIMA/-//

NARR/REF A IS I MEF OPORD FOR EXERCISE 04. APP 1, ANNEX B, CONTAINS MEF PIRS

FOR EXERCISE. REF B ARE MAPS FOR EXERCISE AREAS; SERIES, SHEETS, EDITION AND

SCALE//

POC/BOSS, I.M./MAJ/USMC/CMDO/DSN 492-0283//

RMKS/1. (U) AS DISSEMINATED IN REF A, THE FOLLOWING PIRS ARE THE FOCUS OF I

MEF G2 INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION STRATEGY DURING PHASE ONE OF THE EXERCISE. REQUEST WIDEST DISSEMINATION OF THESE PIRS TO ALL SUBORDINATE UNITS.

2. (U) PIR 1. WILL 3D ARMOR DIV CROSS LINE OF DEPARTURE PRIOR TO I MEF AMPHIB

ASSLT ON D PLUS FOUR.

A. SIGINT. REPORT INCREASE IN ENEMY COMMS BTWN 3D ARMOR DIV UNITS. SPECIFIC ATTN TO COMMS BTWN HQ, 3D ARMOR DIV AND HQ, 4TH CORPS. PROVIDE INDICATIONS AND WARNING OF ENEMY APPROACH VIC NAIS 001, 002.

B. IMINT. PROVIDE COVERAGE OF I MEF AO ACCORDING TO PRIORITIZED IMAGERY

TARGET LIST.

C. GROUND RECON. REPORT ENEMY ACTIVITY IN VIC NAIS 001, 002. REPORT LOCATION, NUMBER, HEADING AND SPEED OF VEHICLES.
E-2 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

D. AERIAL RECON. PROVIDE COVERAGE OF I MEF AO ACCORDING TO AERIAL SURV

PLAN (TRACKS NASHVILLE AND LINCOLN) IN MOBILITY CORRIDORS LAVA AND DELTA.

REPORT LOCATION, NUMBER, HEADING, AND SPEED OF VEHICLES.

E. HUMINT. REPORT INDICATIONS OF 3D ARMOR DIV PLANS TO DEPLOY. 

F. CI. REPORT INDICATIONS OF ENEMY ACTIVITY IN I MEF AO. SPECIFIC ATTN TO

BEACH SUPPORT AREA (NAI 004).

G. MASINT. CONDUCT SENSOR MONITORING AND REPORTING TO PROVIDE I&W OF

ENEMY ACTIVITY IN MOBILITY CORRIDORS LAVA AND DELTA. REPORT ENEMY ACTIVITY. DETERMINE NUMBER, TYPE, HEADING, AND SPEED OF VEHICLES.

3. (U) PIR 2. WILL 4TH CORPS RESERVE DEPLOY TO ASSEMBLY AREA (AA) MULE PRIOR

TO D PLUS FOUR.

A. SIGINT. REPORT INCREASE IN ENEMY COMMS BY AND BTWN 11 MECH INF BDE.

SPECIFIC ATTN TO COMMS BTWN HQ, 11 MECH INF BDE AND HQ, 4TH CORPS. PROVIDE

I&W OF ENEMY APPROACH VIC NAIS 006, 007.

B. IMINT. PROVIDE COVERAGE OF I MEF AO ACCORDING TO PRIORITIZED IMAGERY

LIST.

C. GROUND RECON. REPORT ENEMY ACTIVITY IN VIC NAIS 006, 007. REPORT LOCATION, NUMBER, HEADING, AND SPEED OF VEHICLES.

D. AERIAL RECON. PROVIDE COVERAGE OF I MEF AO ACCORDING TO AERIAL SURV

PLAN (TRACKS KNOXVILLE AND OMAHA) IN MOBILITY CORRIDOR MAIN. REPORT

LOCATION, NUMBER, HEADING, AND SPEED OF VEHICLES.

E. HUMINT. REPORT INDICATIONS OF 11TH MECH INF BDE PLANS TO DEPLOY TO AA

MULE. 

F. CI. 

G. MASINT. CONDUCT SENSOR MONITORING AND REPORTING TO PROVIDE I&W OF

ENEMY ACTIVITY IN MOBILITY CORRIDOR MAIN. REPORT ENEMY ACTIVITY. DETERMINE NUMBER, TYPE, HEADING, AND SPEED OF VEHICLES.

4. (U) PIR 3. WILL 4TH CORPS EMPLOY NUCLEAR, BIOLOGICAL OR CHEMICAL (NBC)

WEAPONS IN THE VICINITY OF THE LANDING BEACHES DURING I MEF AMPHIB ASSLT.

A. SIGINT. REPORT INDICATIONS OF ENEMY USE OR EMPLOYMENT OF NBC WEAPONS.

SPECIFIC ATTN TO HQ, 4TH CORPS COMMS. PROVIDE I&W OF NBC EMPLOYMENT VIC

NAI 004.

B. IMINT.

C. GROUND RECON. REPORT INDICATIONS THAT ENEMY IS PREPARING TO EMPLOY

NBC WEAPONS WITHIN MEF AO. SPECIFIC ATTN TO ENEMY GROUND FORCE UNITS

ISSUING NBC PROTECTIVE GEAR.

D. AERIAL RECON.
E-3 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

E. HUMINT. REPORT INDICATIONS THAT ENEMY IS PREPARING TO EMPLOY NBC WEAPONS WITHIN MEF AO. SPECIFIC ATTN TO CIVIL MEASURES OR PREPARATIONS FOR NBC

EMPLOYMENT.

F. CI. REPORT INDICATIONS THAT ENEMY IS PREPARING TO EMPLOY NBC WEAPONS

WITHIN MEF AO. SPECIFIC ATTN TO CIVIL MEASURES OR PREPARATIONS FOR NBC

EMPLOYMENT.

G. MASINT.

5. (U) PLANNED INTELLIGENCE COLLECTION MISSIONS FOR THE PERIOD 040800T TO

060759T MAR 04 ARE AS FOLLOWS (REFERENCE MEF COLLECTION PLAN ON THE MEF

S-TDN WEB SITE.)

A. SIGINT. SST TEAM A TO EXECUTE MISSION BRAVO VIC NAI 003. AVIATION SST UNIT

C TO EXECUTE MISSION CHARLIE VIC NAI 003. 

EA-6B/PROWLER UNIT A TO COLLECT AGAINST PIR #2 (TASKING PER ITO/ATO).

B. IMINT. 

C. GROUND RECON. HELO INSERTION OF TEAM 111 INTO RAO 111 VIC NAI 006.

D. AERIAL RECON. PROVIDE COVERAGE OF I MEF AO ACCORDING TO AERIAL SURV

PLAN (TRACKS NASHVILLE AND DAYTONA) IN MOBILITY CORRIDOR CHARLIE.

E. HUMINT.

F. CI.

G. MASINT. 3D GSP TO CONDUCT SENSOR EMPLACEMENT OPERATIONS INMOBILITY

CORRIDOR MESA.

6. (U) UPDATES TO THE COLLECTION STRATEGY WILL BE DISSEMINATED IN COLLECTION STATUS UPDATE PARAGRAPH OF MEF INTSUMS, ON-LINE VIA MEF GRAPHICAL

COLLECTION PLAN ON THE MEF S-TDN WEB SITE, AND IN FUTURE COLLECTION

EMPHASIS MESSAGES.

BT

#0001

NNNN
APPENDIX F

GLOSSARY

SECTION I

ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

AO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .area of operations

ATARS . . . . . . . . . . . . advanced tactical airborne

reconnaissance system

BDA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . battle damage assessment

C2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .command and control

CATF . . . . . . commander, amphibious task force

CE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . command element

CI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .counterintelligence

CIS . . .communications and information systems

CLF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . commander, landing force

CM/DO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . collection management/

dissemination officer

COA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . course of action

COM . . . . . . . .collection operations management

COMINT. . . . . . . . . communications intelligence

COP. . . . . . . . . . . . . common operational picture

CRM . . . . . collection requirements management

CTP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .common tactical picture

DIAM . . . . Defense Intelligence Agency Manual

DODIPP . . . Department of Defense Intelligence

Production Program

DS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . direct support

ELINT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . electronic intelligence

EW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .electronic warfare

FRAGO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .fragmentary order

FSSG. . . . . . . . . . . . . force service support group

G-2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . intelligence staff officer

(brigade or higher)

G-3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . operations staff officer

G-5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . plans staff officer

GIRH. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . generic intelligence

requirements handbook

GS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .general support

GSP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ground sensor platoon

HET. . . . . . . . . . . . . .HUMINT exploitation team

HUMINT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . human intelligence

ICR . . . . . . . . intelligence collection requirement

IDR . . . . . intelligence dissemination requirement

IMINT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .imagery intelligence

INTSUM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . intelligence summary

IOC . . . . . . . . . . . . .intelligence operations center

IPB . . .intelligence preparation of the battlespace

IPR . . . . . . . intelligence production requirement

IR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .intelligence requirement

ISC . . . . . . . . . . intelligence support coordinator

J-2 . . . . . . . intelligence directorate of a joint staff

JP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . joint publication

JSTARS . . . . . . . . . . . . . joint surveillance target

attack radar system

JTF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . joint task force

LOC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . line of communications

LTIOV . . . . . . latest time intelligence is of value

MAGTF . . . . . . . . . Marine air-ground task force

MARDIV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marine division

MASINT . . . . . . . . . . measurement and signature

intelligence

MAW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marine aircraft wing

MCDP . . . . . . Marine Corps doctrinal publication

MCIA . . . . . . Marine Corps Intelligence Activity

MCRP . . . . . .Marine Corps reference publication

MCWP . . .Marine Corps warfighting publication

MEF . . . . . . . . . . . . . Marine expeditionary force

mm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .millimeter

MSC . . . . . . . . . . . . major subordinate command

NAI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . named area of interest
F-2 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

OIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . officer in charge

OPLAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .operation plan

OPORD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . operation order

OSINT. . . . . . . . . . . . . . open-source intelligence

P&A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . production and analysis

PIR . . . . . . . . . . priority intelligence requirement

PR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . production request

R&S . . . . . . . . . reconnaissance and surveillance

RadBn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . radio battalion

RECON. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . reconnaissance

RFI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .request for intelligence

S-2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . intelligence staff officer

(battalion or regiment)

S-3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . plans staff officer

(battalion or regiment)

SARC . . . . . surveillance and reconnaissance cell

SIGINT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .signals intelligence

SII . . . . . . . . . . . statement of intelligence interest

SIR . . . . . . . . . .specific information requirement

SOP . . . . . . . . . . . . .standing operating procedure

SOR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .specific order or request

SST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .SIGINT support team

SSU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SIGINT support unit

TTP . . . . . . . . tactics, techniques, and procedures

UAV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .unmanned aerial vehicle

VIC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vicinity

VMAQ . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marine tactical electronic

warfare squadron

VMU . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Marine unmanned aerial

vehicle squadron

VO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . validation officer

SECTION II

DEFINITIONS

area of operations—An operational area defined

by the joint force commander for land and naval

forces. Areas of operation do not typically

encompass the entire operational area of the joint

force commander, but should be large enough for

component commanders to accomplish their

missions and protect their forces. Also called AO.

(JP 1-02)

battle damage assessment—The timely and

accurate estimate of damage resulting from the

application of military force, either lethal or nonlethal, against a predetermined objective. Battle

damage assessment can be applied to the

employment of all types of weapon systems (air,

ground, naval, and special forces weapon

systems) throughout the range of military

operations. Battle damage assessment is primarily

an intelligence responsibility with required inputs

and coordination from the operators. Battle

damage assessment is composed of physical

damage assessment, functional damage

assessment, and target system assessment. (JP 1-

02) In Marine Corps usage, the timely and

accurate estimate of the damage resulting from

the application of military force. BDA estimates

physical damage to a particular target, functional

damage to that target, and the capability of the

entire target system to continue its operations.

Also called BDA. (MCRP 5-12C)

collection—Acquisition of information and the

provision of this information to processing (JP 1-

02) In Marine Corps usage, the gathering of

intelligence data and information to satisfy the

identified requirements. (MCRP 5-12C)

collection management—In intelligence usage,

the process of converting intelligence requirements

into collection requirements, establishing

priorities, tasking or coordinating with appropriate

collection sources or agencies, monitoring results

and retasking, as required. (JP 1-02) 

collection operations management—The

authoritative direction, scheduling, and control of

specific collection operations and associated
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ F-3 

processing, exploitation, and reporting resources.

Also called COM. (JP 1-02)

collection plan—A plan for collecting information

from all available sources to meet intelligence

requirements and for transforming those

requirements into orders and requests to

appropriate agencies. (JP 1-02)

collection requirement—An established

intelligence need considered in the allocation of

intelligence resources to fulfill the priority

intelligence requirements and other intelligence

needs of a commander. (This definition modifies

the JP 1-02 entry and will be included in the next

edition of MCRP 5-12C.)

collection requirements management—The

authoritative development and control of

collection, processing, exploitation, and/or

reporting requirements that normally result in

either direct tasking of assets over which the

collection manager has authority, or the generation

of tasking requests to collection management

authorities at a higher, lower, or lateral echelon to

accomplish the collection mission. Also called

CRM. (JP 1-02) 

combatant command—A unified or specified

command with a broad continuing mission under a

single commander established and so designated

by the President, through the Secretary of Defense

and with the advice and assistance of the Chairman

of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Combatant commands

typically have geographic or functional

responsibilities. (JP 1-02)

command and control—The exercise of authority

and direction by a properly designated commander

over assigned and attached forces in the

accomplishment of the mission. Command and

control functions are performed through an

arrangement of personnel, equipment,

communications, facilities, and procedures

employed by a commander in planning, directing,

coordinating, and controlling forces and operations

in the accomplishment of the mission. (JP 1-02)

Also in Marine Corps usage, the means by which a

commander recognizes what needs to be done and

sees to it that appropriate actions are taken. Also

called C2. (MCRP 5-12C) 

command element—The core element of a

Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) that is

the headquarters. The command element (CE) is

composed of the commander, general or

executive and special staff sections, headquarters

section, and requisite communications support,

intelligence and reconnaissance forces, necessary

to accomplish the MAGTF’s mission. The CE

provides command and control, intelligence, and

other support essential for effective planning and

execution of operations by the other elements of

the MAGTF. The CE varies in size and

composition and may contain other Service or

foreign military forces assigned or attached to the

MAGTF. Also called CE. (This definition

modifies the JP 1-02 entry and will be included in

the next edition of MCRP 5-12C.) 

counterintelligence—1. Information gathered and

activities conducted to protect against espionage,

other intelligence activities, sabotage, or

assassinations conducted by or on behalf of foreign

governments or elements thereof, foreign

organizations, or foreign persons, or international

terrorist activities. (JP 1-02) 2. Within the Marine

Corps, counterintelligence constitutes active and

passive measures intended to deny a threat force

valuable information about the friendly situation,

to detect and neutralize hostile intelligence

collection, and to deceive the enemy as to friendly

capabilities and intentions. Also called CI. (MCRP

5-12C)

dissemination—Conveyance of intelligence to

users in a suitable form. (JP 1-02)

dissemination management—Involves

establishing dissemination priorities, selection of

dissemination means, and monitoring the flow of

intelligence throughout the command. The

objective of dissemination management is to

deliver the required intelligence to the appropriate

user in proper form at the right time while ensuring

that individual consumers and the dissemination
F-4 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

system are not overloaded attempting to move

unneeded or irrelevant information. Dissemination

management also provides for use of security

controls which do not impede the timely delivery

or subsequent use of intelligence while protecting

intelligence sources and methods. (MCRP 5-12C)

force protection—Actions taken to prevent or

mitigate hostile actions against Department of

Defense personnel (to include family members),

resources, facilities, and critical information. These

actions conserve the force’s fighting potential so it

can be applied at the decisive time and place and

incorporate the coordinated and synchronized

offensive and defensive measures to enable the

effective employment of the joint force while

degrading opportunities for the enemy. Force

protection does not include actions to defeat the

enemy or protect against accidents, weather, or

disease. (JP 1-02)

geographic intelligence—The process of

collecting, organizing, analyzing, synthesizing,

disseminating, and using all-source geospatial and

other intelligence information with regard to the

military aspects of the terrain in support of

MAGTF operations. (MCWP 2-12.1)

human intelligence—A category of intelligence

derived from information collected and provided

by human sources. (JP1-02) In Marine Corps

usage, human intelligence operations cover a wide

range of activities encompassing reconnaissance

patrols, aircrew reports and debriefs, debriefing of

refugees, interrogations of prisoners of war, and

the conduct of counterintelligence force protection

source operations. Also called HUMINT. (MCRP

5-12C) 

imagery intelligence—Intelligence derived from

the exploitation of collection by visual

photography, infrared sensors, lasers, electrooptics, and radar sensors such as synthetic aperture

radar wherein images of objects are reproduced

optically or electronically on film, electronic

display devices, or other media. Also called

IMINT. (JP 1-02)

indications and warning—Those intelligence

activities intended to detect and report timesensitive intelligence information on foreign

developments that could involve a threat to the

United States or allied and/or coalition military,

political, or economic interests or to US citizens

abroad. It includes forewarning of enemy actions

or intentions; the imminence of hostilities;

insurgency; nuclear or non-nuclear attack on the

United States, its overseas forces, or allied and/or

coalition nations; hostile reactions to US

reconnaissance activities; terrorists’ attacks; and

other similar events. Also called I&W. (JP 1-02)

indications (intelligence)—Information in various

degrees of evaluation, all of which bear on the

intention of a potential enemy to adopt or reject a

course of action. (JP 1-02)

indicator—In intelligence usage, an item of

information which reflects the intention or

capability of a potential enemy to adopt or reject a

course of action. (JP 1-02)

intelligence—1. The product resulting from the

collection, processing, integration, analysis,

evaluation, and interpretation of available

information concerning foreign countries or areas.

2. Information and knowledge about an adversary

obtained through observation, investigation,

analysis, or understanding. (JP 1-02) Also in

Marine Corps usage, intelligence is knowledge

about the enemy or the surrounding environment

needed to support decisionmaking. This

knowledge is the result of the collection,

processing, exploitation, evaluation, integration,

analysis, and interpretation of available

information about the battlespace and threat.

(MCRP 5-12C)

intelligence cycle—A six-step process by which

information is converted into intelligence and

made available to users. The six steps are planning

and direction, collection, processing and

exploitation, production, dissemination, and

utilization. (MCWP 2-1) (This definition modifies

the JP 1-02 entry and will be included in the next

edition of MCRP 5-12C.)
MAGTF Intelligence Collection _________________________________________________________________________________ F-5 

intelligence preparation of the battlespace—An

analytical methodology employed to reduce

uncertainties concerning the enemy, environment,

and terrain for all types of operations. Intelligence

preparation of the battlespace builds an extensive

database for each potential area in which a unit

may be required to operate. The database is then

analyzed in detail to determine the impact of the

enemy, environment, and terrain on operations and

presents it in graphic form. Intelligence

preparation of the battlespace is a continuing

process. (JP 1-02) In Marine Corps usage, the

systematic, continuous process of analyzing the

threat and environment in a specific geographic

area. Also called IPB. (MCRP 5-12C)

intelligence report—A specific report of

information, usually on a single item, made at any

level of command in tactical operations and

disseminated as rapidly as possible in keeping with

the timeliness of the information. Also called

INTREP. (JP 1-02)

intelligence requirement—1. Any subject,

general or specific, upon which there is a need for

the collection of information, or the production of

intelligence. 2. A requirement for intelligence to

fill a gap in the command’s knowledge or

understanding of the battlespace or threat forces.

(JP 1-02) In Marine Corps usage, questions about

the enemy and the environment, the answers to

which a commander requires to make sound

decisions. Also called IR. (MCRP 5-12C) 

joint intelligence center—The intelligence center

of the combatant command headquarters. The joint

intelligence center is responsible for providing and

producing the intelligence required to support the

combatant commander and staff, components,

subordinate joint forces and elements, and the

national intelligence community. Also called JIC.

(JP 1-02)

Marine air-ground task force—The Marine

Corps principal organization for all missions

across the range of military operations, composed

of forces task-organized under a single commander

capable of responding rapidly to a contingency

anywhere in the world. The types of forces in the

Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) are

functionally grouped into four core elements: a

command element, an aviation combat element, a

ground combat element, and a combat service

support element. The four core elements are

categories of forces, not formal commands. The

basic structure of the MAGTF never varies, though

the number, size, and type of Marine Corps units

comprising each of its four elements will always

be mission dependent. The flexibility of the

organizational structure allows for one or more

subordinate MAGTFs, other Service, and/or

foreign military forces to be assigned or attached.

Also called MAGTF. (This definition modifies the

JP 1-02 entry and will be included in the next

edition of MCRP 5-12C.)

Marine expeditionary force—The largest

Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) and the

Marine Corps principal warfighting organization,

particularly for larger crises or contingencies. It is

task-organized around a permanent command

element and normally contains one or more

Marine divisions, Marine aircraft wings, and

Marine force service support groups. The Marine

expeditionary force is capable of missions across

the range of military operations, including

amphibious assault and sustained operations

ashore in any environment. It can operate from a

sea base, a land base, or both. It may also contain

other Service or foreign military forces assigned

or attached. Also called MEF. (This definition

modifies the JP 1-02 entry and will be included in

the next edition of MCRP 5-12C.)

measurement and signature intelligence—

Scientific and technical intelligence obtained by

quantitative and qualitative analysis of data

(metric, angle, spatial, wavelength, time

dependence, modulation, plasma, and

hydromagnetic) derived from specific technical

sensors for the purpose of identifying any

distinctive features associated with the target,

source emitter, or sender measurement of the

same. The detected feature may be either reflected

or emitted. Also called MASINT. (JP 1-02)
F-6 ________________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

priority intelligence requirements—Those

intelligence requirements for which a commander

has an anticipated and stated priority in the task of

planning and decisionmaking. (JP 1-02) In

Marine Corps usage, an intelligence requirement

associated with a decision that will critically affect

the overall success of the command’s mission.

Also called PIRs. (MCRP 5-12C)

signals intelligence—1. A category of

intelligence comprising either individually or in

combination all communications intelligence,

electronic intelligence, and foreign instrumentation

signals intelligence, however transmitted. 2.

Intelligence derived from communications,

electronic, and foreign instrumentation signals.

Also called SIGINT. (JP 1-02)

split base—Two or more portions of the same

force conducting or supporting operations from

separate physical locations. (MCRP 5-12C)

surveillance and reconnaissance cell—Primary

element responsible for the supervision of

MAGTF intelligence collection operations.

Directs, coordinates, and monitors intelligence

collection operations conducted by organic,

attached, and direct support collection assets.

Also called SARC. (Change approved for

inclusion in the next version of MCRP 5-12C.)

validation—A process normally associated with

the collection of intelligence that provides official

status to an identified requirement and confirms

that the requirement is appropriate for a given

collector and has not been previously satisfied.

(JP 1-02 part 1)
APPENDIX G

REFERENCES

Department of Defense Publications 

Defense Intelligence Management Document 0000-151C-95, Department of Defense Intelligence Production Program (DODIPP): Production Procedures (U)

Defense Intelligence Agency Manual 57-05, DOD Exploitation of Multi-Sensor Imagery

Joint Publications (JPs)

1-02 Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms

2-0 Doctrine for Intelligence Support to Joint Operations

2-01 Joint Intelligence Support to Military Operations 

Marine Corps Doctrinal Publications (MCDPs)

2 Intelligence

5 Planning

Marine Corps Warfighting Publications (MCWPs)

2-1 Intelligence Operations

2-12 MAGTF Intelligence Production and Analysis

2-14 Counterintelligence

2-15.1 Remote Sensor Operations

2-15.2 Signals Intelligence

2-15.4 Imagery Intelligence

3-26 Air Reconnaissance

3-40.1 Marine Air-Ground Task Force Command and Control

3-40.5 Electronic Warfare

3-42.1 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Operations

5-1 Marine Corps Planning Process
G-2 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________ MCWP 2-2

Marine Corps Reference Publications (MCRPs)

2-12A Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield 

2-15.3B Reconnaissance Reports Guide

5-12C Marine Corps Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms

Marine Corps Intelligence Activity (MCIA) Publication

1540-002-95 Generic Intelligence Requirements Handbook (GIRH)

Army Field Manual (FM)

34-2 Collection Management and Synchronization Planning