Rules of Engagement

The Rules of Engagement define when and how members of the 174th Battle Group are authorised to use force. All members are expected to know and follow these rules at all times. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action.

Authorised Use of Force

Force is authorised only under the following conditions:

• Direct hostile action: A target has taken hostile action against group members or assets.
• Demonstrated hostile intent: A target has displayed clear hostile intent, such as weapons charged and directed at group personnel or an aggressive approach with no communication.
• Standing orders: Command has designated the target hostile by standing order prior to the engagement.
• Active contract or mission objective: The target is identified as an objective within a sanctioned mission or contract.
• Defence of a neutral or civilian: A neutral or civilian is under active attack and the group has the capacity to intervene.

Escalation and Warning

Unless a member or the group is under active fire, a warning must be issued before engaging. Members must make a reasonable attempt to communicate intent and allow the target an opportunity to stand down. If the target does not respond or continues to advance, force may be used under the applicable condition above.

Offensive engagements, where the group initiates contact against a target not currently attacking, require explicit authorisation from a Rank 4 or higher officer, or from the council. Individual members may not initiate offensive action on their own authority.

Civilians and Neutrals

The default stance toward civilians and neutral parties is to avoid interaction entirely. Members must not provoke, threaten, or engage neutral parties without authorisation. If a neutral becomes a direct threat, the escalation process applies before force may be used.

Surrendered and Fleeing Enemies

Enemies who surrender or attempt to flee must be pursued and captured where possible. Lethal force against a surrendered or fleeing enemy is a last resort, permitted only when capture is not feasible and the enemy remains an active threat. Rank 3 and above may authorise the release of a captured enemy if operational circumstances require it.

Prohibited Actions

The following actions are prohibited at all times, regardless of orders:

• Impairing medical vessels: Medical ships must not be attacked, disabled, or obstructed unless the vessel is confirmed hostile and the group has its own medical capacity available.
• Destroying escape pods: Escape pods must never be destroyed. Members are expected to pursue and capture them where possible.
• Griefing: Harassment, repeated unprovoked attacks, and any conduct intended to ruin the experience of other players is strictly prohibited.

Friendly Fire

All friendly fire incidents, accidental or otherwise, must be reported to the commanding officer immediately and documented. Members involved must stand down and await instruction before continuing the engagement.

Target Verification

Before engaging any target, members must have visual confirmation of hostile action or recognised hostile markings. Uncertainty is not sufficient grounds to open fire. If a member cannot confirm a target is hostile, they must hold fire and seek clarification from their commanding officer.