FM/BS-349.V2.05 - Identify legitimate targets
Identify targets as legitimate targets before engagement. This is crucial to prevent harm to civilians and ensure adherence to the principles of distinction and proportionality in combat.
Combatants: Individuals who are actively engaged in hostilities or are members of armed forces.
- Enemy soldiers in uniform not surrendering or wounded
- Armed militants
- Persons directly participating in hostilities
- A person posing an immediate threat (e.g., aiming a weapon) can be considered a combatant
- Parachuting active airborne infantry
Non-Combatants: Individuals who are not actively participating in hostilities. These are not legitimate targets.
- Civilians not taking direct part in hostilities
- Unarmed medical and religious personnel
- Wounded/surrendering soldiers who are not participating combat in any way, and prisoners of war
- Parachuting crew from a downed aircraft
