Class 8: Command and Control in military operations

Command and Control

The way military leaders give orders and coordinate their forces. It connects strategy (the big goals) with tactics (actions on the ground).

What does good command and control means?

• Units working together

• Responding to problems fast

• Staying focused on the mission

Command and Control

The way military leaders give orders and coordinate their forces. It connects strategy (the big goals) with tactics (actions on the ground).

What does good command and control means?

• Units working together

• Responding to problems fast

• Staying focused on the mission

C4ISR

• command

• control

• communications

• computers

• intelligence

• surveillance

• reconnaissance

Why is command and control important?

• Organisation

• Adaptation

• Balance between forces (land, air, sea, cyber…)

• Connection between military and political leadership

Mission command

Trusting subordinates works better than centralized control

What are the expectations of planned mission in command and control?

Not the perfect conditions during operations:

• Friction

• Chaos

• Chance

• Danger

What is the standing structure of NATO?

1. Strategic level

2. Operational level

3. Tactical level

What are lessons for modern military operations?

• Mission command is crucial

• Prioritize secure communications

• Fast and accurate intelligence

• coordinated joint operations between forces

• Protected and flexible logistics

• Morale and motivation are as important as weapons