What action does the staff take when local information sources cannot meet intelligence requirements?

When local information sources are unable to fulfill intelligence requirements, the staff will issue a Request for Information (RFI). This action seeks to gather specific data or intelligence from higher echelons, other commands, or external agencies that may possess the required information. The RFI process is critical in ensuring that the operational forces have access to the intelligence necessary for decision-making and operational effectiveness.

Issuing an RFI allows for a structured approach to obtaining information, enabling the staff to clearly articulate what is needed and prioritize intelligence collection efforts. This step is essential in dynamic and complex operational environments where timely and relevant intelligence is vital to mission success.

In contrast, conducting a survey, consulting with allied intelligence, or writing a situation report each serve different purposes or may not directly address the immediate gap in intelligence requirements. Conducting a survey typically gathers broad feedback rather than specific intelligence. Consulting may provide additional insights but doesn’t guarantee the needed information is promptly available. Writing a situation report focuses more on summarizing current operational conditions rather than filling specific intelligence gaps.