It is Called a Weapon for a Reason: The Need for Non-Lethal Weapon Specific Rules of Engagement

Abstract

Since the 1960's non-lethal weapon (NLW) technology has continued to grow and be slowly incorporated into the U.S. military arsenal. With further advances in technology more NLWs will enter the battle space. The variety of missions assigned to U.S. forces that are more suitable for NLWs has also increased. The need for operational planners to understand the capabilities and limitations of these weapons is paramount in developing sound and effective rules of engagement (ROE) for deployed troops. Troops must be trained on NLW specific ROE and those ROE must be continually evaluated to ensure their applicability to current conditions in the area of operations. Failing to provide NLW specific ROE can limit or prevent their use by deployed forces and lead to unnecessary casualties. The ROE for NLWs must also provide a seamless transition from non-lethal to lethal fires to ensure the safety of troops when required.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 10, 2007
Accession Number
ADA470781

Entities

People

  • Eric S. Partin

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Active Denial System
  • Casualties
  • Chemical Warfare Agents
  • Chemical Weapons
  • Employment
  • Incapacitating Agents
  • Lessons Learned
  • Military Operations
  • National Security
  • Nonlethal Agents
  • Nonlethal Weapons
  • Riot Control Agents
  • Rules Of Engagement
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare
  • Weapons
  • Weapons Effects

Readers

  • Military Science
  • Systems Analysis and Design
  • Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Autonomous Capabilities and Mission Reconnaissance.

Technology Areas

  • Space