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Command and Control

The exercise of authority and direction over forces, and the systems and processes that connect command decisions to coordinated action.
Defines command and control, C2

Command and control (C2) is the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and attached forces in the accomplishment of the mission [jointchiefs2016dictionary].

C2 is also a practical system: communications, reporting, staffs, plans, orders, battle rhythms, and decision cycles that connect decisions to coordinated action. In western militaries, much of C2 is doctrinal and administrative form: standardized artifacts (orders, graphics, synchronization matrices) that allow strangers to act together under time pressure.

References

[jointchiefs2016dictionary] Joint Chiefs of Staff. (2016). Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms. Joint Publication 1-02 (as amended through 15 Feb 2016).

Relations

Cites
  • Jointchiefs2016dictionary
Date created
Defines
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Cite

@misc{emsenn2026-command-and-control,
  author    = {emsenn},
  title     = {Command and Control},
  year      = {2026},
  note      = {The exercise of authority and direction over forces, and the systems and processes that connect command decisions to coordinated action.},
  url       = {https://emsenn.net/library/militarism/domains/military-command/terms/command-and-control/},
  publisher = {emsenn.net},
  license   = {CC BY-SA 4.0}
}