"Target validation is an operations and legal function and ensures all candidate targets meet the objectives and criteria outlined in the commander’s guidance and ensures compliance with the Law of War and the Rules of Engagement," the document states.
Justifying whether an enemy is to be killed or captured requires development of a detailed profile, but no photograph of the target is needed if digital forensics and surveillance can provide evidence for target selection by military and intelligence-community commanders, according to the 230-page document.
"A photo of the individual is highly desired, but not required," the manual stated. “If a physical description is not available [there must be] a body of information that includes pattern of life, human factors, financial information, e-mail account, internet usage, Web forum(s) used, telephone(s), and other communications devices used sufficient to accurately identify the individual."
The manual also details procedures for selecting “virtual entities” – websites, digital applications, financial accounts and other online data online. It directs planners to “carefully consider” whether a virtual target is considered “unique” or linked to another type of target, such as an individual or physical equipment."
As an example, the manual cites a satellite TV signal whose content is translated and broadcast in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese and Russian, and includes anti-Western messages and programs.
