Legal Definitions - military objective

A military objective is an object that, by its inherent characteristics, its geographical placement, or the way it is being used, offers a definite military advantage or effectively contributes to military operations. Under international humanitarian law, such as the Geneva Conventions, only military objectives may be lawfully targeted during armed conflict, distinguishing them from civilian objects which are protected from attack.

• Example 1: A large industrial complex that has been converted from producing consumer goods to manufacturing fighter jet components and military drones for a nation's armed forces.

  Explanation: This factory, by its *use* in producing essential military equipment, directly contributes to military action. Therefore, it qualifies as a military objective because it provides a clear military advantage to the forces using its output.

• Example 2: A critical railway junction and associated marshalling yards located at a strategic crossroads, which an army is actively using to transport troops, heavy artillery, and logistical supplies to the front lines.

  Explanation: The railway junction, due to its *location* as a vital transport hub and its *use* for military logistics, directly supports military operations. This makes it a military objective because its function provides a significant military advantage.

• Example 3: A fortified communications tower and adjacent satellite dishes that are exclusively used by a military force to relay encrypted messages, coordinate troop movements, and gather intelligence.

  Explanation: This communications infrastructure, by its *nature* as a dedicated military facility and its *use* for command, control, and intelligence gathering, directly contributes to military action. Consequently, it is considered a military objective.