Which of the following is a principle of Mission Command?

• A. Build cohesive teams through mutual trust
• B. Create detailed procedures for every action
• C. Use rigid, centralized control
• D. Exercise disciplined initiative

Answer: (D)

Discipline initiative is the key idea here. In Mission Command, leaders at all levels are empowered to act on opportunities and adapt to changing conditions without waiting for explicit orders, as long as their actions align with the commander's intent and the overall mission. This gives the force speed and flexibility in uncertain environments, where waiting for instructions can mean missing the moment or the chance to exploit a weakness.

Detailed procedures for every action and rigid centralized control run directly against this approach, because they slow decision-making and stifle initiative. While mutual trust and shared understanding are important foundations of Mission Command, the specific principle highlighted by exercising disciplined initiative focuses on proactive, within-intent action to keep operations moving effectively.