Army releases new interrogation manual

By ARNEWSSeptember 8, 2006



WASHINGTON (Army News Service, Sept. 6, 2006) - The Army announced today the publication of Field Manual 2-22.3, "Human Intelligence Collector Operations."

The new manual replaces Field Manual 34-52, which was published in 1992 and focused entirely on interrogation operations. The new FM 2-22.3 is broader in scope and provides plainly worded doctrinal guidance across the full range of human intelligence collection operations.

"FM 2-22.3 is an important part of the Army's commitment to improve human intelligence (HUMINT) operations, including interrogation operations. It broadens the functions and capabilities of our HUMINT Soldiers and incorporates lessons learned into our doctrine," said Lt. Gen. John F. Kimmons, the Army's Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence. "This FM represents the result of a very extensive coordination process throughout the Department of Defense involving our most senior leaders and combatant commanders."

The new manual clarifies military intelligence and military police roles and responsibilities; specifies requirements for non-DoD access to detainees under DoD control; specifies that commanders are responsible and accountable for compliance with provisions of FM 2-22.3 and for ensuring humane detainee treatment; and notes that all military personnel are responsible and accountable for immediately reporting suspected detainee abuse.

The new manual, in accordance with Geneva Conventions, explicitly prohibits torture and cruel, inhuman and degrading treatment, and is in complete compliance with the Detainee Treatment Act of 2005.

"The new FM builds upon previous doctrine, incorporates lessons learned, and provides clear and specific guidance to commanders and Soldiers in the field on the conduct of HUMINT operations," said Thomas Gandy, director of Counterintelligence, Human Intelligence, Foreign Disclosure and Security.

Effective human intelligence and interrogation operations are more important than ever to meet the intelligence requirements of our forces operating for extended periods in complex, irregular warfare environments, he added.

The U.S. Army has published this Field Manual in the interest of full transparency. The "FOUO" markings are no longer operative.