Mission Command – the principle of empowering subordinates to make decisions – has been a military tradition for years. However, during a simulated war game, the absence of communication tools forced a British Army unit to rely solely on this principle. The unit, cut off from the higher chain of command, had to make critical decisions based on their understanding of the commander’s intent and the overall mission.
This unexpected situation highlighted the importance of trust in the chain of command. The unit’s leaders had to trust their subordinates’ judgement and decision-making capabilities. In return, the subordinates had to trust that their leaders had given them all the necessary information to make informed decisions.
The experience also underscored the need for clear, concise communication. Without the usual channels, every message had to be brief, yet comprehensive enough to convey the commander’s intent. This forced everyone to consider their words carefully, ensuring they conveyed the necessary information without any extra fluff.
Finally, the exercise demonstrated the value of adaptability. The unit had to adjust to the lack of communication tools, finding new ways to share information and coordinate their efforts. This adaptability proved crucial to their success, showing that even in the most challenging circumstances, a well-trained unit can still accomplish their mission.
Go to source article: https://wavellroom.com/2017/12/14/radio-silence-a-lesson-in-mission-command/