What three components comprise the art of command?

The art of command in a military context is fundamentally about effective leadership and the ability to make informed decisions. One of the core components, authority, establishes the legitimate power necessary for a leader to direct operations and influence the actions of their team. This gives leaders the framework to assert direction and build confidence among their subordinates.

Decision-making as a crucial element reflects the necessity for leaders to analyze situations, weigh options, and choose appropriate courses of action. This skill is essential for navigating complex scenarios where rapid judgments can significantly affect outcomes, thereby underscoring the leader's ability to react to dynamic and often unpredictable environments.

The inclusion of the science of control as part of this triad emphasizes the systematic and analytical approaches that leaders must employ to manage resources, personnel, and strategies effectively. It recognizes that command is not just an art but also relies on methods for monitoring progress and maintaining operational effectiveness.

These three components collectively highlight the multifaceted nature of command, blending the intuitive aspects of leadership with structured methodologies that ensure efficacy in achieving mission objectives.