text: FM 2-22.3
  Chapter 11
  HUMINT Collection With An Interpreter
  11-1. The use of interpreters is an integral part of the HUMINT collection
  effort. It is vital that the HUMINT collection skills be paired up with a
  qualified interpreter. Use of an interpreter is time consuming and potentially
  confusing. Proper use and control of an interpreter is a skill that must be
  learned and practiced to maximize the potential of HUMINT collection. It is
  also vital for the HUMINT collector to confirm that the interpreter he
  intends to use holds the required clearance for the level of information that
  will be discussed or potentially collected, and is authorized access to the
  detainee. This chapter deals strictly with the use of interpreters to support
  HUMINT collection; it is not intended to be applied to more routine uses of
  interpreters in support of administrative, logistical, or other operational
  requirements.
  ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF INTERPRETER USE
  ADVANTAGES
  11-2. Interpreters are frequently a necessary aid to HUMINT collection.
  There are certain advantages to using an interpreter. The most obvious is
  that without an interpreter, a HUMINT collector without the proper
  language or necessary proficiency in that language is severely limited.
  Furthermore, if properly trained, briefed, and assessed, the interpreter can
  be a valuable assistant to the HUMINT collector. The interpreter––
  • Probably has a greater knowledge of the local culture and language
  usage than could be developed by the HUMINT collector.
  • Can identify language and culturally based clues that can help the
  HUMINT collector confirm or refute the veracity of the source’s
  statements.
  • Can interpret not only the literal meaning of a statement but also the
  intent and emotion of a sentence.
  DISADVANTAGES
  11-3. There are, however, several significant disadvantages to using
  interpreters. Disadvantages may include—
  • A significant increase in time to conduct the collection. Since the
  interpreter must repeat each phrase, the time for a given questioning
  session or meeting is normally at least doubled.
  • Since there is now a third person in the communications loop, the
  potential for confusion or misunderstanding increases significantly.
  This is especially true when the interpreter is deficient in his command
  of either language.