What does the term "collateral damage" refer to in targeting?

The term "collateral damage" specifically refers to unintended damage that occurs to non-combatants or civilian structures during military operations. This concept is a critical consideration in warfare, where the primary objective is often to target enemy assets while minimizing harm to innocent individuals and infrastructure.

Understanding this term is essential in military strategy and ethics, as it emphasizes the responsibility to avoid excessive harm to civilians and comply with laws of armed conflict. Effective targeting methods seek to reduce the risk of collateral damage, reflecting a balance between achieving military objectives and adhering to humanitarian principles.