Understanding the Phenomenon of Fratricide (abstract)

Soldiers killed by friendly fire are an unacceptable yet very real pathology in the armed forces. Cooperation in multinational military coalitions creates the potential for exacerbation of the problem. Each case of fratricide is a mistake, most often resulting from misidentification, miscommunication, or other factors, which have contributed to a shooter’s confusion. Current C3I systems employ Situational Awareness as their primary means of reducing uncertainty yet statistical studies indicate that only a minimal reduction in the frequency of fratricide has resulted from the introduction of these systems. Since fratricide is a product of the uncertainty and confusion experienced by our soldiers in the field, this lack of significant reduction implies that current SA-focused C3I implementations do not actually serve to effectively reduce uncertainty. This paper presents an analysis of fratricidal data concluding with a cogent argument for the importance of Intention Awareness in understanding fratricide, an important concept currently not employed in analysis. In support of the main points of argument this paper provides a critique of fratricidal data compiled during exercises as the Combat Maneuver Training Center (CMTC) using intent-oriented and qualitative methodology.

To be published