What is command and control?

• A. The means by which a commander recognizes what needs to be done and sees to it that appropriate actions are taken.
• B. The process of issuing orders without feedback.
• C. The physical apparatus used to coordinate units.
• D. The strategic planning cycle only.

Answer: (A)

Command and control is the process by which a commander uses information and authority to determine what must be done and to ensure the right actions are carried out in a coordinated way. It brings together observing, deciding, directing, and monitoring so awareness becomes synchronized execution across units. This captures both recognizing the task at hand and making sure appropriate actions follow. It isn’t just issuing orders without feedback, which misses the essential loop of observing results and adjusting; it isn’t merely the hardware or tools used to coordinate units; and it isn’t limited to the strategic planning cycle.