Definition: (DOD) The timely and accurate estimate of damage resulting from the application of military force, either lethal or non-lethal, against a predetermined objective. Battle damage assessment can be applied to the employment of all types of weapon systems (air, ground, naval, and special forces weapon systems) throughout the range of military operations. Battle damage assessment is primarily an intelligence responsibility with required inputs and coordination from the operators.

Battle damage assessment is composed of physical damage assessment, functional damage assessment, and target system assessment.

Also called BDA.

See also bomb damage assessment; combat assessment.