JP 3-33, Joint Task Force Headquarters - Defense Innovation ...

Joint Task Force Command and Control
force (RUF). ROE and RUF are specific authorizations and limitations by which the
President, SecDef, and operational commanders regulate the use of armed force in the
context of applicable political and military policy and domestic and international law. When
read in conjunction with the commanders guidance and intent, ROE and RUF are rules that
govern when, where, against whom, and how force can be used. RUF are distinguished from
ROE in that RUF are typically used for armed forces performing security or law enforcement
functions. In addition, non-DOD entities such as state and local law enforcement or NG
forces may also have established RUF that need to be considered in domestic operations
where DOD forces operate in close proximity.
(2) ROE and RUF generally provide authority for or impose limitations on the use
of force by commanders and individuals based on three types of considerations:
(a) Military. Properly developed ROE and RUF clarify the inherent right and
obligation of unit self-defense.
(b) Diplomatic and Political. ROE and RUF are a reflection of USG and
partner nations diplomatic and political will.
(c) Legal. ROE and RUF also are a reflection of international and domestic
law and existing multilateral and bilateral agreements and arrangements.
(3) ROE and RUF will change as the mission evolves. Commanders should
develop use of force measures that provide subordinate commanders with sufficient
flexibility to adapt to changing conditions to accomplish assigned missions and tasks. Those
measures may be influenced by the commander’s judgment, the intent of higher authorities,
the requirements of subordinates, the training of the force, and the concerns of multinational
partners. Nothing in the ROE or RUF limit the inherent authority and obligation to use all
necessary means available and to take all appropriate action in unit self-defense consistent
with the law of armed conflict.
(4) ROE and RUF issues emerge during the planning process as the staff
begins to develop COAs. Required ROE should be identified during COA development.
The supported CCDR may provide ROE and RUF guidance to the CJTF via initial planning
documents, which may precede COA development. The CJTF’s proposed mission-specific
ROE and RUF should be developed, exercised, and modified as necessary to support mission
planning during the COA development, war gaming, analysis, and selection process.
Mission objectives must drive the ROE and RUF formulation process and not vice versa.
(5) ROE and RUF development, distribution, training, and modification must
be timely and responsive to changing mission and threat parameters.
(6) Standing Rules of Engagement (SROE). The President and SecDef have
provided the SROE as standalone guidance for US forces worldwide that are equally
applicable to all the CCMDs and can be easily amended or clarified to meet mission-specific
requirements. SROE apply in addition to specific guidance, if any, from higher authority in
the form of supplemental measures. SROE also provide lists of numbered supplemental
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