Naval Doctrine Publication 6. Naval Command and Control.
Abstract
Command and control is an essential element of the art and science of naval warfare. Command is the authoritative act of making decisions and ordering action; control is the act of monitoring and influencing this action. These acts-supported by a system of people, information, and technology-enable the naval commander to cope with the uncertainty of combat and to employ military force more efficiently. Modern technology has broadened the scope and increased the complexity of command and control, but its foundations remain constant: professional leadership, competence born of a high level of training, flexibility in organization and equipment, and cohesive doctrine. These elements establish a framework for effective command and control that must be mastered by all who exercise command in the naval Services. Command and control governs all areas of naval warfare. To be effective, it requires the commander to have a thorough understanding of the nature and conduct of war, naval leadership, the command and control process, and the supporting information systems. It requires an appreciation of the vulnerabilities and weaknesses in our own command and control process and systems-as well as insight into the nature of adversary command and control. The requirement to exercise effective command and control in today's environment extends to all levels of warfare, across the full range of military operations. This publication discusses the philosophical foundation of command and control, how commanders monitor and influence operations, the command and control process, the systems through which command and control is executed, and the various ways that commanders establish effective command and control.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1995
- Accession Number
- ADA304321
Entities
Organizations
- Chief of Naval Operations