Not always. You might find this interesting:
âMissions typically use a combination of pre-planned and dynamictargeting. While the primary objectives are meticulously mapped out before takeoff, modern combat systems allow pilots to identify and strike new "targets of opportunity" in real-time.Â
Target Classification
âĒPre-Planned Targets: The vast majority of strikes focus on fixed, static locations identified through months of intelligence gathering.
âĶStrategic Sites: Nuclear infrastructure, ballistic missile production facilities, and command centers.
âĶStatic Defense: Fixed surface-to-air missile (SAM) batteries and known radar installations.
âĒDynamic (Reactive) Targets: Some targets are determined only after jets reach Iranian airspace or while they are en route.
âĶMobile Threats: Road-mobile ballistic missile launchers (TELs) are often hunted in real-time as they move to launch positions.
âĶEmergent Threats: New air defense radars that "turn on" to engage the incoming jets.
âĶLeadership: High-value individuals whose locations may only be confirmed by sensitive intelligence while the mission is already underway. ïŋž
âĶThe International Institute for Strategic StudiesâĻ 9
How Targets Are Assigned Mid-Flight
âĒOnboard Sensors: Jets like the F-35I "Adir" use advanced AESA radar and infrared sensors to detect and lock onto threats within seconds.
âĒData Fusion: Pilots receive real-time updates from AWACS (Early Warning) aircraft or satellite links, which pass coordinates for new targets directly to the jet's computer.
âĒJoint Coordination: Missions are often synchronized through joint coordination cells that manage intelligence flow between Israeli and U.S. forces to shift priorities during the operation.â
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