Combat assessment focuses on evaluating what, and what are its three primary elements?

• A. It analyzes logistical readiness; elements are supply, maintenance, and transport.
• B. It reviews personnel readiness; elements are morale, training, and fitness.
• C. It evaluates force employment effectiveness; elements are BDA, MEA, and reattack recommendation.
• D. It evaluates the effects of weather on operations.

Answer: (C)

Combat assessment focuses on determining how effectively force employment produces the desired effects on the battlefield and informs what to do next. The three primary elements are Battle Damage Assessment, Measures of Effectiveness Analysis, and a reattack recommendation.

Battle Damage Assessment gauges the impact of actions on the enemy, assessing how much damage was done and how it degraded their capability or freedom of action. It relies on information from sensors, reports, and after-action observations to quantify damage to personnel, matériel, infrastructure, and overall threat potential.

Measures of Effectiveness Analysis evaluates whether the operation achieved its intended effects and objectives, translating those outcomes into criteria that show success or shortfall. This looks at whether the chosen methods, tempo, positioning, and actions produced the planned changes in the enemy or environment, and whether success criteria were met.

A reattack recommendation synthesizes the findings from the damage assessment and effectiveness analysis to advise the next move—whether to press the attack, adjust the approach, or halt and reassess. It guides decision-makers on continuing, modifying, or stopping operations based on current results and remaining risk.

These elements together give a clear picture of how well the operation is being employed and what actions are warranted to achieve success.