Military operations other than war (US)

American military operations other than war (MOOTW) focus on deterring war, resolving conflict, promoting peace, and supporting civil authorities in response to domestic crises.

Because of political considerations, MOOTW operations normally have more restrictive rules of engagement (ROE) than in war.

MOOTW not involving the use or threat of force include humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, arms control and peacekeeping.

Several fundamental principles can be adduced from military operations other than war: objective, unity of effort, security, restraint, perseverance, and legitimacy.

The first three are derived from the principles of war, and the remaining three are MOOTW-specific.