What does Command and Control (C2) mean in LSCO?

In the context of Large-Scale Combat Operations (LSCO), Command and Control (C2) refers to exercising authority and direction over military forces. This concept is crucial as it encompasses the processes and systems used by military leaders to plan, execute, and assess operations effectively. C2 involves making decisions, coordinating actions among units, and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to achieve strategic objectives.

The essence of C2 in military operations lies in the ability to integrate various components of the armed forces, as well as to respond to the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of combat. Effective C2 enables commanders to maintain situational awareness, communicate orders, and monitor the execution of those orders in real time, which is vital in large-scale operations where numerous units may be engaged across extensive areas.

This definition underscores the importance of leadership and organizational structures within the military, emphasizing the need for clear lines of authority and effective communication among all ranks and units involved in an operation.