Command and control

Lore & Background

Command and control has been defined in various ways by different military organizations. A 2015 definition by military scientists Marius Vassiliou, David S. Alberts, and Jonathan R. Agre describes it as a set of organizational and technical attributes and processes that employs human, physical, and information resources to solve problems and accomplish missions. Versions of the United States Army Field Manual 3-0 circulated circa 1999 define C2 as the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commanding officer over assigned and attached forces in the accomplishment of a mission. A 1988 NATO definition states that command and control is the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated individual over assigned resources in the accomplishment of a common goal. An Australian Defence Force definition, similar to NATO's, emphasizes that C2 is the system empowering designated personnel to exercise lawful authority and direction over assigned forces for the accomplishment of missions and tasks. The Australian doctrine notes that while there is some international agreement on terminology, not every potential ally uses the terms with exactly the same meaning.

Reader's Guide

Command and control is significant as a foundational concept in military doctrine and organizational management, providing a framework for authority, direction, and resource coordination. Its definitions vary across nations and eras, reflecting different organizational priorities and contexts. The term has also been adopted in the computer security industry to describe the infrastructure attackers use to control compromised systems, highlighting its broader relevance beyond traditional military applications. Derivative terms such as C4I, C4ISR, and C6ISR emphasize various aspects including computers, communications, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. Command and control centers serve as secure facilities for dispatch, surveillance, and coordination in government, military, and prison settings. Command and control warfare encompasses tactics like cyber operations, electronic warfare, military deception, operations security, and psychological operations, all aimed at disrupting enemy capabilities while protecting friendly ones. The ongoing evolution of C2 definitions and associated technologies underscores its enduring importance in both military and civilian domains.

Did You Know?

• The US Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms defines command and control as 'The exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated commander over assigned and attached forces in the
• A 1988 NATO definition states command and control is the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated individual over assigned resources in the accomplishment of a common goal.
• In the computer security industry, the term refers to the influence an attacker has over a compromised computer system they control.
• Derivative terms include C2I, C4, C4I, C4ISR, C4ISTAR, C4ISREW, C6ISR, and NC2.