The DoD Non-Lethal Weapons Program develops and fields Intermediate Force Capabilities between presence and lethal effects in support of the Joint Force.

Transform the National Security Enterprise by mainstreaming the planning and employment of Intermediate Force Capabilities to arm the Joint Force with the fullest range of capabilities in support of National Security objectives.

According to DoD Directive 3000.03E, DoD Executive Agent for Non-Lethal Weapons (NLW), and NLW Policy, the Department of Defense defines non-lethal weapons as weapons, devices, and munitions that are explicitly designed and primarily employed to incapacitate targeted personnel or materiel immediately, while minimizing fatalities, permanent injury to personnel, and undesired damage to property in the target area or environment. Non-lethal weapons are intended to have reversible effects on personnel and materiel.

The Department of Defense Non-Lethal Weapons Program Executive Agent's Planning Guidance provides vision, guidance, goals and tasks commensurate with the program's contemporary relevance. Its contents are directive for the DOD Non-Lethal Weapons Program and information for Service-unique non-lethal weapons programs--all of which comprise the Department of Defense Non-Lethal Weapons Program.