What does the acronym DIDEA stand for in the combat identification process?

The acronym DIDEA stands for Detect, Identify, Decide, Engage, Assess, which outlines the steps taken in the combat identification process. Each component of this acronym plays a critical role in ensuring effective decision-making in a combat environment.

• Detect involves noticing or sensing the presence of a target or threat. This is the initial step, where scouts and soldiers use observation and reconnaissance to find potential adversaries or objects of interest.

• Identify pertains to determining what the detected object or target is. This helps in distinguishing friend from foe, which is crucial for avoiding friendly fire and for applying the correct tactical response.

• Decide is the stage where a determination is made based on the information gained during the detection and identification phases. This involves analyzing the situation and deciding on the appropriate course of action.

• Engage refers to the actual action taken once a decision is made. This could involve firing upon a target or taking another suitable action based on the circumstances.

• Assess is the final step, where the results of the engagement are evaluated. This analysis helps in understanding the effectiveness of the actions taken and shapes future decisions.

This acronym emphasizes a systematic approach to combat identification, ensuring that each step is carefully executed to