text: FM 2-22.3 _________________________________________________________________________________
  • SMEs: There will be occasions when the HUMINT collector will talk to
  sources about subjects of which the HUMINT collector has no
  knowledge. In that case, the HUMINT collector will want to talk to
  personnel who are SMEs. Depending on the depth of knowledge that
  the source is expected to have and the time available to prepare, the
  HUMINT collector may arrange for a technical expert to support the
  questioning (see Chapter 9).
  • Technical Manuals: There are various weapon and equipment
  identification guides available in hardcopy, softcopy, and off the
  Internet that can assist the HUMINT collector in identifying any
  equipment mentioned by the source.
  • Source Physical and Mental Condition: HUMINT collectors should
  observe the source prior to questioning if possible and also talk to
  anyone available who has relevant information concerning the source.
  MP guards can be an especially valuable source of information based
  on source observation and should be debriefed periodically. This can
  prevent surprises at the onset of the questioning session and can help
  the HUMINT collector assess the source’s physical and mental
  condition as well as provide insights to possible approaches.
  • Databases: Collectors should review source information and reports
  contained in the various databases available to them. The CHATS
  system, BAT database, and other databases can provide collectors with
  source information and previous reporting.
  HUMINT COLLECTION PLAN
  7-9. After conducting appropriate research, the HUMINT collector working
  with an analyst, if available, develops a source-based collection plan. This is
  geared to the specific source that is going to be questioned. The amount of
  time spent in preparing this plan depends on the operational circumstances.
  This may range from a quick mental review by an experienced HUMINT
  collector in a tactical environment to a formal written plan submitted by a
  subordinate to a team leader. The source collection plan will vary from source
  to source. It will also vary with the conditions under which the source is
  questioned. It serves as a checklist to ensure that all steps necessary to
  prepare for questioning are conducted. Whether written or oral, the
  HUMINT collection plan should contain at least the following items:
  • HUMINT collection requirements.
  • Serial number of EPW/detainee to be questioned.
  • Location and time for the questioning.
  • Primary and alternate approaches.
  • Questioning plan including topics to be covered and the planned
  sequence of these topics.
  • Prepared questions for unfamiliar or highly technical topics.
  • Method of recording and reporting information obtained.