What does "Mission Command" emphasize?

Mission Command emphasizes the exercise of authority through mission orders, which empower leaders at various levels to make decisions. This approach is centered on trust and decentralized execution, allowing subordinate leaders the freedom to adapt to changing circumstances on the battlefield. By providing clear intent and objectives while leaving the specifics of execution to the discretion of the subordinates, Mission Command fosters initiative, encourages critical thinking, and promotes swift responses to dynamic situations.

The effectiveness of Mission Command lies in the balance between providing guidance and allowing autonomy. Leaders are expected to align actions with the commander's vision while maintaining flexibility in their execution, embodying the principle that trained and capable leaders should be trusted to make decisions in line with the overall mission.

In contrast, the other options don't align with the principles of Mission Command. Direct control of all military operations could lead to bottlenecked decision-making and reduced responsiveness. The importance of following orders without question contradicts the initiative and adaptability that Mission Command seeks to cultivate. Lastly, delegating responsibilities without oversight could undermine accountability and coherence in command, diverging from the structured yet flexible approach that Mission Command advocates.