Article 311 — Demoralization of the Defence Forces.

(1) Any member or military commander of the Defence Forces who, during a time other than those specified under sub-article (2) of this Article, demoralizes the troops by his behaviour, in particular by giving ground (running away) contrary to orders, by throwing away arms, equipment or munitions, by spreading fear or causing disorder or confusion, or by failing to take the steps required of him to prevent or remedy such developments, is punishable with rigorous imprisonment not exceeding twenty- five years. (2) Where the crime is committed in time of battle or immediately before or after battle, the punishment shall be rigorous imprisonment for not less than five years. (3) Where the crime and its consequences are of particular gravity, the punishment shall be rigorous imprisonment for life or death, according to the circumstances of the case.