After intelligence requirements are established, what must the staff do if local sources cannot meet the requirements?

When local sources are unable to meet established intelligence requirements, issuing a Request for Information (RFI) is the appropriate action to take. An RFI is a formal mechanism used to solicit additional information or intelligence from higher levels of command or from other intelligence resources. This process ensures that the staff actively seeks out the necessary information to fill intelligence gaps rather than relying on potentially outdated or inadequate sources.

By issuing an RFI, the staff communicates specific information needs and enables broader intelligence collection efforts, thereby improving the overall situational awareness and effectiveness of military operations. This proactive approach supports timely decision-making and enhances the planning and execution process during joint operations.

In contrast, reassessing the requirements may lead to delays or unnecessary adjustments without addressing the immediate need for information. Using outdated intelligence reports can create significant risks, as those reports may not reflect current realities, leading to potential operational failures. Simply waiting for new intelligence updates is not a viable option, as it may lead to missed opportunities or unaddressed threats, which could negatively impact mission success.