scope:

PURPOSE

ATP - 3.4.4.1 provides NATO tactical COIN doctrine to guide tactical commanders, their staff and units. Tactical level Allied commanders are therefore the primary audience for this publication. However, ideally all involved in delivering localized counterinsurgency effects, including non-military actors, should have knowledge of this publication.

This document is based on the assumption that a decision to launch NATO or NATOled operations involving COIN will be taken in accordance with the relevant provisions of international law. It is also based upon the assumption that the conduct of future operations will have to conform to relevant international law. Any provisions, definitions or obligations in this ATP may not be interpreted or construed as state practice or a change in effective agreements on the Law of Armed Conflict. All statements and terminology regarding an insurgency and its organisational and operational patterns are not intended to convey any legal connotation or combatant status, but rather assist NATO commanders and staffs in understanding and describing their tactical environment and planning and executing future operations.