What is a target that appears during combat and against which fires have not been planned called?

A target that appears during combat without prior planning for fires is termed a target of opportunity. This designation indicates that the target was not identified in advance during the planning stages and is generally identified by units in real-time during operations. Responding to such targets typically requires quick decision-making to capitalize on the immediate situation, allowing forces to engage effectively with minimal delay.

In contrast, assigned targets are predetermined during planning and represent specific objectives for fire support. Strategic targets go beyond immediate combat scenarios, focusing more on long-term goals and overall mission objectives, while urgent targets may involve time-sensitive operations but are still typically identified as part of a broader plan. Thus, the distinct nature of a target of opportunity lies in its spontaneous emergence on the battlefield, requiring a flexible and responsive approach to engagement.