FM 3-57 — Civil Affairs Operations
FM 3-57 governs the integration and employment of Civil Affairs forces and capabilities in support of unified land operations.
- Publication number: FM 3-57
- Title: CIVIL AFFAIRS OPERATIONS
- Date: 07/28/2021
- Proponent: T2COM
- Status: ACTIVE
View FM 3-57 on armypubs.army.mil
The manual describes Civil Affairs missions, authorities, core competencies, principles, operations, and support across the competition continuum. It requires civil knowledge integration into planning and compliance with applicable laws, the law of war, and rules of engagement.
Applies to: FM 3-57 applies to the Active Army, the Army National Guard (or Army National Guard of the United States), and the United States Army Reserve unless otherwise stated.
Topics covered
- Civil Affairs missions
- Civil Affairs operations
- Civil component
- Transitional governance
- Civil network development and engagement
- Civil knowledge integration
- Civil-military integration
- Mission command
Questions and answers
What is the purpose of Civil Affairs operations?
Civil affairs operations are actions planned, coordinated, executed, and assessed to enhance awareness of, and manage the interaction with, the civil component of the operational environment; identify and mitigate underlying causes of instability within civil society; and/or involve the application of functional specialty skills normally the responsibility of civil government (JP 3-57). (paragraph 2-1)
What is the strategic objective of Army Civil Affairs forces?
Army CA forces have the strategic objective of establishing and maintaining a secure and stable OE that is consistent with U.S. interests. (paragraph 2-2)
What must commanders and staffs ensure about their decisions and actions?
Commanders, staffs, and subordinates ensure their decisions and actions comply with applicable United States, international, and, in some cases, host-nation laws and regulations.
What must commanders ensure about Soldiers?
Commanders at all levels ensure their Soldiers operate in accordance with the law of war and the rules of engagement. (See FM 6-27.)
What Civil Affairs products support mission planning?
CA forces prepare area studies, conduct assessments, and create and maintain running estimates to assist in the planning and updating of mission plans across the competition continuum. (paragraph 4-43)