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

Chapter IV
SECTION B. COMMANDER, STAFF, AND COMPONENTS OF A
JOINT FORCE
6. Commander Responsibilities
a. Responsibilities of a JFC. Although specific responsibilities will vary, a JFC
possesses the following general responsibilities:
(1) Provide a clear commander’s intent and timely communication of specified
tasks, together with any required coordinating and reporting requirements. Tasks should be
realistic yet leave subordinate commanders flexibility in their CONOPS and the ability to
take the initiative as opportunities arise.
(2) Transfer forces and other capabilities to designated subordinate commanders for
accomplishing assigned tasks.
(3) Provide all available information to subordinate JFCs and component
commanders that affect their assigned missions and objectives.
(4) Delegate authority to subordinate JFCs and component commanders
commensurate with their responsibilities.
b. Responsibilities of a Subordinate Commander. In addition to other
responsibilities that change according to circumstances, all subordinate commanders possess
the general responsibilities to provide for the following:
(1) The accomplishment of missions or tasks assigned by the plans and orders of
the superior. Authority normally is given to the subordinate commander to select the
methodology for accomplishing the mission; however, this may be limited by establishing
directives issued by the superior JFC to ensure effective joint operations. Any departure
from the plan by a subordinate commander should, if possible, be coordinated with other
commanders prior to departure from the plan. In addition, the departure must be
communicated as soon as practicable to the superior.
(2) Advice to the superior JFC regarding employment possibilities of and
consequences to achieving the subordinate commander mission objectives, cooperation with
appropriate government and nongovernmental agencies, and other matters of common
concern.
(3) Timely information to the superior JFC relating to the subordinate
commander’s situation and progress.
c. Responsibilities of Other Commanders. Commanders who share a common higher
commander or a common boundary are responsible for the following:
(1) Consider the impact of one’s own actions or inactions on other friendly forces.
IV-12 JP 1