Rules of Engagement for Non-Lethal Weapons
Abstract
Non-lethal weapons have changed the nature of force options available to U.S. commanders. Where there used to be only two options; no force and lethal force, now there has developed a continuum' where force can be matched in proportionality to an enemy's action. This force continuum has necessitated a change in Rules of Engagement (ROE)) in order that they consider the new issues associated with non-lethal weapons, as well as the integration of lethal with non-lethal force in Military Operations Other Than War (MOOTW) and war. Issues for non-lethal weapons are grouped into five broad categories; risk' humanitarian, political, objective, and legal. Within these categories there are many elements that must be explored and considered in developing ROE. Two recent proposals include dedicated peacetime ROE training and construction of a decision matrix that matches action with appropriate response. But because non-lethal weapons are so inextricably linked to lethal weapons, the ROE must allow them both to work as a complementary team in the force continuum and apply across the spectrum from MOOTW to war. What is needed now, is a merging of the proposed ROE training and decision matrix concepts, appropriately tailored to apply across the spectrum of weapons and situations, while considering the many issues involved.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 18, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA351805
Entities
People
- Michael W. Douglass
Organizations
- Naval War College