MCTP 10-10A — Multi-service Tactics, Techniques, And Procedure For The Employment Of...

MCTP 10-10A governs the tactical employment of nonlethal weapons during military operations.

Search MCTP 10-10A

  • Publication number: MCTP 10-10A
  • Title: MULTI-SERVICE TACTICS, TECHNIQUES, AND PROCEDURE FOR THE EMPLOYMENT OF...
  • Date: 7 Apr 2025
  • Proponent: 03000 Operations & Readiness
  • Status: Current

View MCTP 10-10A on armypubs.army.mil


It covers operational applications, core counterpersonnel and countermaterial capabilities, employment limitations, human effects, and training requirements. It requires compliance with applicable laws, treaties, and agreements and addresses unit-level and inter-Service training.

Applies to: This publication provides commanders and their staff unclassified guidance for NLW planning and employment.

Topics covered

  • Nonlethal weapons
  • Operational NLW applications
  • Counterpersonnel capabilities
  • Countermateriel capabilities
  • NLW employment limitations
  • Human effects considerations
  • Unit-level NLW training
  • Inter-Service NLW training

Questions and answers

What are nonlethal weapons designed to do?

Nonlethal weapons (NLW) – Weapons, devices, and munitions that are explicitly designed and primarily employed to temporarily incapacitate targeted personnel or materiel immediately, while minimizing fatalities, permanent injury to personnel, and undesired damage to property in the target area. (paragraph 5)

What laws apply when nonlethal weapons are used?

Carefully plan and coordinate NLW use to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, treaties, and agreements regarding employment of NLW, munitions, riot control agents (RCAs), and dazzling devices (e.g., laser-based systems). (paragraph 2)

When do nonlethal weapons support military operations?

NLW support all phases of military operations across the competition continuum. (paragraph 2)

What are the two core functions of nonlethal weapons?

NLW can be divided into two core functions, counterpersonnel and countermaterial, as specified in the Initial Capabilities Document for Counterpersonnel Joint Non-Lethal Effects and Initial Capabilities Document for Countermaterial Joint Non-Lethal Effects, verified 7 April 2014. (paragraph 2)

What must countermateriel effects do?

Nonlethal countermateriel effects must be immediate and reversible according to DoDD 3000.03E, DoD Executive Agent for Non-Lethal Weapons and NLW Policy. (paragraph 1)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about MCTP 10-10A