ROE

Rules of Engagement (ROE) for the Defense Forces of the Unified Star Federation

I. Purpose

The Rules of Engagement (ROE) outlined in this document are designed to provide the Defense Forces of the Unified Star Federation (USF) with a clear and consistent framework for the lawful and ethical use of force in military operations. These rules ensure that all actions taken by USF personnel are in accordance with Federation law, uphold the principles of justice, and minimize unnecessary escalation and harm.

II. General Principles

1. Proportionality: The use of force must be proportional to the threat presented. Force should only be used to the extent necessary to accomplish the mission and achieve the desired objectives, avoiding excessive or indiscriminate violence.

2. Necessity: Force is only to be used when there are no other viable means to accomplish the mission or protect Federation assets and personnel. The use of force must be necessary and reasonable under the circumstances.

3. Protection of Civilians: Every effort must be made to avoid harm to civilian personnel and infrastructure. Operations must prioritize the preservation of innocent life and avoid collateral damage whenever possible.

4. Humanitarian Considerations: The Defense Forces will adhere to international humanitarian law, respecting the rights and safety of non-combatants, prisoners of war, and other protected persons. Any violation of these rights will result in disciplinary action and investigation.

5. Escalation of Force: When possible, the use of non-lethal force should be employed to de-escalate tensions or resolve conflicts. Lethal force should only be used when non-lethal means have failed or are insufficient to address the threat.

III. Specific Rules of Engagement

1. Self-Defense:

   • Immediate Threat: Force may be used in self-defense when an individual or unit is under immediate threat of harm or destruction, and there is no feasible alternative to protect themselves or Federation assets.

   • Proportional Response: The response to a direct threat must be proportional to the nature and scale of the aggression. Excessive force, such as the destruction of entire targets when limited engagement is sufficient, is prohibited.

   • Escape and Evasion: When possible, personnel should prioritize evasion, retreat, or escape over engaging in combat. If retreat is not feasible, defensive action must be taken to protect Federation personnel and assets.

2. Engagement with Hostile Forces:

   • Hostile Intent: Hostile forces are defined as any group, individual, or entity actively engaged in aggression or hostile activities toward the Federation or its allies. Engagement with hostile forces is permitted, with the goal of neutralizing the threat while minimizing collateral damage.

   • Verification of Hostility: Before engaging a target, a reasonable assessment must be made to confirm the hostile intent. This may include visual identification, electronic signals analysis, or direct intelligence.

   • Warning Procedures: When possible, hostile forces will be warned before engagement, providing them an opportunity to disengage or surrender. Warnings may include hails, visual signals, or audio communication.

3. Use of Lethal Force:

   • Clear and Present Danger: Lethal force may only be used when there is a clear and present danger to Federation personnel, assets, or civilians that cannot be mitigated by non-lethal means. The use of lethal force must be justified by the immediate and credible threat posed by the target.

   • Targeting of Combatants: In combat zones, only military targets or combatants actively engaging in hostile actions may be targeted. Civilian infrastructure or non-combatants may not be deliberately targeted unless they are directly involved in combat operations.

   • Destruction of Hostile Assets: The destruction of enemy assets (e.g., ships, vehicles, stations) is authorized when necessary to eliminate the threat. However, efforts must be made to avoid unnecessary damage to civilian property or non-military assets.

4. Protection of Non-Combatants and Civilian Property:

   • Non-Combatant Immunity: Every effort must be made to protect civilians and non-combatants. If civilians are present in a combat zone, actions must be taken to minimize their risk and avoid direct harm.

   • Collateral Damage: All military operations must consider the risk of collateral damage to civilian property, habitats, and infrastructure. The destruction of civilian property is prohibited unless it is directly tied to a legitimate military objective and no other means of achieving that objective are available.

5. Detention and Capture:

   • Prisoners of War: When capturing individuals from hostile forces, they must be treated humanely in accordance with Federation law and international humanitarian standards. Captured personnel must be detained and transferred to appropriate legal authorities for prosecution.

   • Use of Force During Arrest: Force may be used to detain individuals only when necessary to prevent escape or resistance. Lethal force during an arrest is only permitted when the individual poses a direct threat to Federation personnel or civilians.

   • Transfer of Captured Persons: All captured personnel must be handled in accordance with the Federation’s policies on prisoner treatment. They must be informed of their rights and treated according to the Geneva Conventions, as appropriate.

6. Engagement with Non-State Actors:

   • Pirates and Criminals: Forces engaging in anti-piracy or anti-smuggling operations must adhere to the same rules of engagement as those in combat. If hostile actions are initiated by pirates or criminals, the use of force is permitted. However, efforts must be made to minimize civilian casualties and avoid unnecessary escalation.

   • Non-Combatant Hostage Situations: In situations where non-combatants are taken hostage by hostile forces (such as pirates), the priority is to rescue the hostages while neutralizing the threat. Non-lethal means should be employed where feasible, with lethal force used only when there is no other option to save lives.

IV. Enforcement of ROE

1. Compliance Monitoring: All personnel are required to adhere strictly to these Rules of Engagement. Commanding officers are responsible for ensuring that all personnel are trained and compliant with ROE at all times.

2. Violations and Accountability: Any violation of ROE will be investigated and may result in disciplinary action. Officers or personnel found to have acted outside the established guidelines will be subject to investigation and could face court-martial, depending on the severity of the violation.

3. Reporting Violations: Any personnel who observe violations of ROE are required to report the incident immediately to their superior officer. Failure to report violations is itself a violation of Federation policy.

V. Conclusion

The Rules of Engagement (ROE) for the Defense Forces of the Unified Star Federation ensure that all personnel act in accordance with the Federation’s principles of justice, professionalism, and respect for civilian life. These rules are intended to guide actions during both peacetime and conflict situations, ensuring that the use of force is always measured, lawful, and appropriate to the threat faced. By adhering to these ROE, the Defense Forces will uphold the Federation’s commitment to peace, security, and the protection of its citizens and allies.

End of ROE
Issued by the Defense Forces Command
Unified Star Federation