Which of the following is NOT a principle of mission command?

• A. Mission Command
• B. Combined Arms
• C. Unity of Command
• D. Develop the situation through action

Answer: (C)

Mission command hinges on empowering subordinates to act with initiative within a clear commander’s intent. The principles that support this approach include building cohesive teams through mutual trust, creating shared understanding, providing a clear intent, encouraging disciplined initiative, using mission orders, and accepting prudent risk.

Unity of Command is a traditional organizational principle that ensures every subordinate reports to a single commander. It’s not listed as a principle of mission command, so it doesn’t fit with the mission command framework as taught, making it the correct choice for “not a principle of mission command.”

The other options align with mission command: the concept of Mission Command itself, the idea of Combined Arms to create integrated effects, and developing the situation through action to shape events through initiative rather than waiting for detailed instructions.