Intelligence Preparation on the Battlefield — FM 34-130

The purpose of this manual is to describe the fundamentals of intelligence preparation of the battlefield (IPB). It describes IPB, its use in directing the intelligence effort, and its role in driving the staff’s planning for contingency or combat operations. It prescribes the procedures followed in performing IPB and illustrates the application of IPB in various situations. This manual is intended to serve as a guide for the use of IPB by units of all types, at all echelons, across the entire spectrum of conflict, and during the conduct of any mission. It does not contain all the data required to conduct IPB, such as specific information on threat doctrine or equipment capabilities. Rather, it is intended as a guide for applying the fundamentals of the IPB process to any situation.