A tactical and a separate strategic collection plan

This is not ordinary “essay”. For this project you will deliver two intelligence collection plans (a tactical and a separate strategic collection plan).

You are expected to deliver in .ppt or .doc format a table that is a matrix of potential intelligence targets and collection methods (feel free to break down major methods of collection, like SIGINT, into their components: ELINT, COMINT, MASINT, TELINT, etc.).

You are asked to submit two matrices: one that deals with tactical intelligence and one that deals with strategic intelligence. Remember that one of the key differences between strategic and tactical collection is the echelon of the command involved. Strategic intelligence is usually conducted by theater level commands and above with access to theater collectors as well as national assets. Generally tactical collection is done by organizations at the Division level and below – units in the area of operation with organic assets that can rapidly respond. In your scenario you should focus tactical collection in support of a US mil element ready to act. This might represent a carrier group in the Med, a US bomber group ready to strike, or a SOF raiding party ready to grab an HVI or destroy a facility. Take this into account as you build your two collection plans. You are required to identify and describe an intelligence question (of your choice) that drives each of these matrices. An intelligence question is the same as an intelligence requirement. Remember clarity in the intelligence question is the most important element of collection planning.

The grade will be based on the following rubric and its recommended you make a check list to be sure you have:

1) the primary intelligence question or requirement identified (in two separate strategic and tactical matrices),
2) you’ve listed your sub-questions or component information requirements(PIRs/EEIs),
3) listing of targets of collection, and tie the targets to the PIRs,
5) identify what collection mechanisms you will recommend for each target, and
6) provide an estimate of the expected effectiveness of the collection to successfully collect the information needed

(NOTE: a project that is does not pursue the purpose of this assignment–intelligence collection planning–will be considered “off-topic” and may require a re-do or substantial points deduction)

Each matrix should not extend beyond one page (which means it should not be longer than 2 pages). This means you need to make a judgment about what targets you want to include on your matrix (some are probably not worthy of much consideration).

You should also, on a scale of 1-10, rate the effectiveness of that particular target-collection method combination (this evaluation will be relative and not perfect, but it is important to get a grasp on effectiveness of certain target-collection combinations.

You are welcome to display your matrix in any graphical fashion that you like. Any creativity you bring to this assignment in your layout should be there to help you make your point. Be sure to label your columns and rows clearly. You are welcome to use font size 8 in the matrix in order to include additional description or you run short on space.

You may need to research on the intelligence question you choose organizing the ideas so that you clearly communicate what you intend.
A matrix is a rectangular arrangement of rows and columns of boxes. Into these boxes you can enter text and numbers — like a spreadsheet. You can subdivide some of these boxes to further break down information. Most collection matrices generally have requirements on one axis and collectors on another.