Which phase involves confirming a target as hostile and clearing it for engagement?

The phase that involves confirming a target as hostile and clearing it for engagement is the Engage phase. During this stage, a thorough assessment of the target is conducted to ensure that it meets the criteria for engagement, typically based on rules of engagement and situational awareness. This involves identifying the target accurately, verifying its hostile status, and then authorizing the use of weapons or tactics to engage the target.

This phase is critical in military operations, as confirming a target as hostile ensures that actions taken are justified and necessary within the context of the mission. The decision to engage signifies a shift from observation to active involvement in the operation, where the focus is on neutralizing or incapacitating the identified threat.