Mission 9 end3 - Decision Under Fire

Outskirts of a recently retaken town – Post-combat clearance mission

MISSION 9:
Mines. Demining (Tutorial Mission)

Key learning points:

The Ottawa Convention bans anti-personnel mines outright—but even for states not party to it, the basic legal principles still apply. Under customary international law, indiscriminate weapons that can’t distinguish between civilians and combatants remain prohibited.

The core LOAC principles-distinction, proportionality, and precaution—apply to all parties in conflict. They’re not optional, and they don’t depend on whether a treaty has been signed. Commanders have a duty to protect civilians from known risks. Allowing resettlement before clearance—or reusing unstable captured mines—exposes civilians and friendly forces to unacceptable danger.

Mine clearance is a legal obligation, not just good practice. Marking is not enough. Civilian protection requires full clearance and coordination.

“If it’s not yours, don’t touch it.” This widely used field rule reflects both operational safety and legal compliance under LOAC. Captured mines should never be reused.

Following LOAC builds trust and legitimacy. Every lawful action you take—whether during these simulated missions or in real-world operations—strengthens your unit’s credibility and protects those not taking part in the hostilities. This isn’t just about getting the answer right. It’s about developing habits that reflect the realities of modern conflict, where legal clarity and moral discipline shape every outcome.

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