Military command

Military command is the principle of the exercise of authority in a military, naval or air force context. The exercise of command is normally articulated in the legal framework which embodies the force concerned.

Command is normally exercised at all rank levels in the hierarchy where authority to exercise command is vested in the rank held by the individual.

The term command can also refer to the instruction or order promulgated through the command chain; Directed letter, general order, Operational Order (OpOrder) or the spoken instruction given by a superior to a subordinate.

A command is the name given to the extent of authority by a given senior military officer such as a Squadron, Regiment or ship or higher formation such as Land Command or Navy Command.

See also

• Command (military formation)

References