Which scenario best illustrates 'discipline in initiative' under Mission Command?

• A. Subordinates implement explicit orders before acting.
• B. Subordinates wait for higher approval.
• C. Subordinates exploit opportunities within commander's intent.
• D. Subordinates escalate to higher command.

Answer: (C)

Disciplined initiative in Mission Command means acting on opportunities that help accomplish the mission while staying within the commander's intent and the defined boundaries. The scenario where subordinates identify an opportunity and exploit it, aligned with the commander's intent, demonstrates this—they use good judgment, move quickly, and adapt to changing conditions without waiting for explicit direction. This shows initiative exercised within the given framework, which is exactly what Mission Command intends. By contrast, waiting for detailed orders, seeking higher approval for every action, or escalating when not necessary delays action and does not showcase disciplined initiative.