This core principle of Mission Command is a clear and concise expression of the purpose of an operation, the desired outcome, and acceptable risks.

• A. Provide clear commander's intent
• B. Mission-type orders (MTOs) when appropriate
• C. Build mutual trust
• D. Decentralized execution

Answer: (A)

Commander's intent is the clear and concise expression of why the operation is undertaken, what success looks like, and what risks are acceptable. This statement guides everyone on the team by defining the purpose and the end state, so subordinates can act with initiative and adapt to changing circumstances while staying aligned with the overall objective. When people understand the intent, decisions at lower levels flow from that shared purpose, enabling decentralized execution and faster responses. While mission-type orders, mutual trust, and decentralized execution are important parts of Mission Command, the description in the prompt specifically points to the commander’s intent as the defining concept.