FM 6-27 — The Commander's Handbook On The Law Of Land Warfare (mctp 11-10c) (this Item Is Published W/ Basic Incl C2)
FM 6-27 governs the law of land warfare and the conduct of disciplined military operations in armed conflict.
- Publication number: FM 6-27
- Title: THE COMMANDER'S HANDBOOK ON THE LAW OF LAND WARFARE (MCTP 11-10C) (THIS ITEM IS PUBLISHED W/ BASIC INCL C2)
- Date: 08/07/2019
- Proponent: T2COM
- Status: ACTIVE
View FM 6-27 on armypubs.army.mil
It covers LOAC principles, hostilities, civilians, combatants, detainees, the wounded and sick, occupation, non-hostile relations, and war crimes. It requires compliance with applicable U.S., international, and host-nation laws and regulations, LOAC, and applicable rules of engagement.
Topics covered
- Law of armed conflict
- Conduct of hostilities
- Protection of civilians
- Prisoner of war status
- Detainee communications
- Occupation
- War crimes
Questions and answers
What does a treaty require under international law?
Treaties often go by different terms, such as Conventions or Protocols, but regardless of how titled, all treaties in force are legally binding on States Parties as a matter of international law. (paragraph 1-96)
What precautions are required to protect civilians during attacks?
First, they must take feasible precautions to reduce the risk of harm to protected persons and objects. Second, they must refrain from attacks in which the expected harm to civilians and civilian objects would be excessive in relation to the concrete and direct military advantage expected to be gained (DOD Law of War Manual, 5.11, 5.12, and 5.14; consider AP I, art. 57(2)). (paragraph 1-2)
What is the responsibility for protecting civilians?
The protection of civilians is a responsibility shared among all belligerents. (paragraph 1-2)
What are feasible precautions?
Feasible precautions are those precautions that are practicable or practically possible, taking into account all circumstances ruling at the time, including humanitarian and military considerations (CCW Protocol III art. 1, para. 5). (paragraph 1-2)
Who is entitled to prisoner of war status based on membership in the armed forces?
Members of the armed forces of a State party to a conflict, other than military medical personnel and chaplains attached to the armed forces are entitled to POW status based on their membership in the armed forces. (paragraph 3-17)