TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) will conduct the Han Kuang No. 40 Exercise (漢光40號演習) from July 22 to 26, issuing Rules of Engagement (ROE) Cards to enhance the legitimacy of military force during wartime.
Officials have designed the ROE Cards to clarify combat principles. The front of the card outlines four fundamental rules: who to attack, other permissible combatants, whom to protect, and specific mission rules. The back includes universal values like military necessity, distinction, proportionality, and the prohibition of unnecessary suffering.
Yu Chien-chang (余健昌), an official from the MND's Department of Legal Affairs (法律司), explained that the front content is based on current military preparedness plans. The back covers principles from the Law of Armed Conflicts and International Humanitarian Law.
The MND has authorized Special Engagement Rules for all combat units, allowing customization based on mission nature and individual responsibilities. However, due to sensitive content, these rules needed to be demonstrated.
Tung Chih-hsing (董冀星), director of the Operation and Planning Office (作計室聯戰處), noted that promoting ROE regulations is an ongoing effort. In April, commanders discussed the rules during computer simulations, and in June, promotion teams visited units to oversee card production and educate soldiers on combat objectives and principles.