VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

MTP 1(D), Vol. I
1203 DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY
The action by which a commander assigns a part of his authority commensurate with the assigned
task to a subordinate commander. While ultimate responsibility cannot be relinquished, delegation of
authority carries with it the imposition of a measure of responsibility. The extent of the authority delegated
must be clearly stated.
Delegation to a subordinate commander creates a new responsibility for a specific task.
Subordinates should be kept aware of the policies and intentions of their superiors, so that they can act
accordingly when faced with unexpected circumstances. A subordinate should never await instructions
beyond the time for action.
1204 CHAIN OF COMMAND
The succession of commanding officers from a superior to a subordinate through which command is
exercised.
A chain of command establishes the interdependencies which exist at various levels between the
superior and his subordinates. Command functions may be exercised at any one of these levels. The
organization (task, type, or warfare) adopted for the forces employed automatically defines the chains of
command.
1205 COMMAND SYSTEM
A command system is formed by a chain of command and includes the means necessary to distribute
orders and collect, evaluate, and disseminate information.
1206 EXERCISING COMMAND
a. General. Successful accomplishment of any mission entails seven phases:
(1) Appreciation of the situation.
(2) Selection of the aim.
(3) Decision on course of action.
(4) Development of a plan.
(5) The operation order.
(6) Execution.
(7) Evaluation.
b. Appreciation of the Situation and Decision. A mission should have only one aim from
which the commander can derive his tasks and purpose. It is essential that all units participating in the
mission understand the aim, so that they may act in accordance with the commander’s intentions, even
when the tactical situation has changed and it is no longer possible to follow the original operation order.
c. Execution and Evaluation. Command and control of different operations vary widely and
depend on mission, composition, and disposition of the force. Documentation for the evaluation of these
operations may be drawn from many sources, most significant of which is probably the war diary. The
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