Rules of Engagement

Why ROE Exist

Rules of Engagement (ROE) ensure use of force occurs according to: - National policy goals - Mission requirements - Rule of law

They set parameters for when, where, how, why, and against whom commanders and Airmen may use force.

Duty

All Airmen have a duty and legal obligation to understand, remember, and apply rules of engagement.

Types of ROE

Standing ROE: - Approved by U.S. President and Secretary of Defense - Issued by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff - Provide implementation guidance on inherent right of self-defense and application of force for mission accomplishment

Mission-specific ROE: - More specific application of law of war principles - Tailored to the political and military nature of a mission - Generally contained in an annex to execution orders, operations plans, and operations orders

Self-Defense — The Fundamental Policy

Core Rule

*"These rules do not limit a commander's inherent authority and obligation to use all necessary means available to take all appropriate actions in self-defense of the commander's unit and other U.S. Armed Forces in the vicinity."*

Military members may act in individual self-defense unless otherwise directed by a unit commander.

Four Factors Before Using Force

1. De-escalation

When time and circumstances permit, forces committing hostile acts or demonstrating hostile intent should be warned and given the opportunity to withdraw or cease threatening actions.

2. Necessity

Focuses on the threat perceived by an individual — whether a hostile act has occurred, or hostile intent is being demonstrated.

Hostile act/intent includes force or threats used: - Against the U.S., U.S. Armed Forces, or designated persons and property - Intended to impede the mission of U.S. Armed Forces

3. Proportionality

Relates to the reasonableness of the response to a threat.

U.S. Armed Forces may only use the amount of force necessary to decisively counter a hostile act or demonstration of hostile intent.

Force must be reasonable in: - Nature - Duration - Scope

4. Pursuit

U.S. Armed Forces can pursue and engage a hostile force that has committed a hostile act or demonstrated hostile intent — if those forces continue to commit hostile acts or demonstrate hostile intent.

ROE may restrict or place limitations on pursuing across international borders.

Rules of Engagement