In the CAS execution template, what does BDA stand for?

BDA stands for Bomb Damage Assessment. This term is crucial in the context of Close Air Support (CAS) as it refers to the evaluation of the damage caused by air strikes on a specific target. The purpose of BDA is to determine the effectiveness of the air strikes in achieving their intended destruction, thereby informing future mission planning and adjustments in tactics.

Accurate BDA allows commanders to assess whether additional strikes are necessary or if alternate targets should be prioritized. This assessment may involve reconnaissance reports, visual inspections, and intelligence analysis. In contrast, the other options presented, such as Battle Damage Acknowledgment or Blast Damage Assessment, do not specifically capture the established meaning and operational significance that BDA has in military terminology.