JP 1, Doctrine for the Armed Forces of the United States - Defense ...

Chapter V
e. CCDRs may inspect assigned RC forces in accordance with DODD 5106.04,
Combatant Command Inspectors General, when such forces are mobilized or ordered to
active duty (other than for training).
f. CDRUSSOCOM will exercise additional authority for certain functions for assigned
RC forces and for all SOF assigned to other CCMDs in accordance with the current MOAs
between CDRUSSOCOM and the Secretaries of the Military Departments. See DODI
1215.06, Uniform Reserve, Training, and Retirement Categories.
11. Background
SECTION B. COMMAND AND CONTROL OF JOINT FORCES
Command is the most important role undertaken by a JFC. It is the exercise of authority
and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and attached forces. C2 is
the means by which a JFC synchronizes and/or integrates joint force activities. C2 ties
together all the operational functions and tasks and applies to all levels of war and echelons
of command. C2 functions are performed through an arrangement of personnel, equipment,
communications, facilities, and procedures employed by a commander in planning, directing,
coordinating, and controlling forces and operations in the accomplishment of the mission.
12. Command and Control Fundamentals
C2 enhances the commander’s ability to make sound and timely decisions and
successfully execute them. Unity of effort over complex operations is made possible through
decentralized execution of centralized, overarching plans or via mission command.
Advances in information systems and communications may enhance the situational
awareness (SA) and understanding of tactical commanders, subordinate JFCs, CCDRs, and
even the national leadership. The level of control used will depend on the nature of the
operation or task, the risk or priority of its success, and the associated comfort level of the
commander.
a. Tenets. Unity of command is strengthened through adherence to the following C2
tenets:
(1) Clearly Defined Authorities, Roles, and Relationships. Effective C2 of joint
operations begins by establishing unity of command through the designation of a JFC with
the requisite authority to accomplish assigned tasks using an uncomplicated chain of
command. It is essential for the JFC to ensure that subordinate commanders, staff principals,
and leaders of C2 nodes (e.g., IO cell, joint movement center) understand their authorities,
role in decision making and controlling, and relationships with others. The assignment of
responsibilities and the delegation of authorities foster initiative and speed the C2 process.
Joint force staff principals must understand that their primary role is to provide sufficient,
relevant information to enhance SA and understanding for the JFC and for subordinate
commanders. Once a decision is made, commanders depend on their staffs to communicate
the decision to subordinates in a manner that quickly focuses the necessary capabilities
within the command to achieve the commander’s intent. The commander should give the
staff the authority to make routine decisions within the constraints of the commander’s intent
V-14 JP 1