The command and control facilities of any organization are one of the primary targets of enemy forces.
In threat doctrine, destruction of command and control facilities is one of the highest priorities. Almost
any means can be expected to be employed. In operations other than war warfare, a primary target will
also be the command and control facilities. The MP area security mission helps protect rear area units
and facilities against spies, saboteurs, and enemy forces. MP detect enemy activities early and secure
selected units and facilities. They fight enemy forces and limit disruptions of rear operations. Military
police, with their mobility, communications, and firepower, are especially well-suited to this mission.
DIVISION COMMAND POST
To direct the battle, the division commander must move where he can best control the operation. In an
attack, this is most often near the leading brigade. In defense, the division commander operates with
the forces defending against the enemy's main effort. The division commander usually establishes a
tactical command post (CP) and a main command post. Combat service support operations are
controlled in the division material management center.
Tactical Command Post
The division commander most often directs the battle from a small mobile tactical command post. It is
located forward in the battle area and is staffed by selected assistants. The division commander
organizes the tactical command post in the manner that works best for him. Its size and electronic
signature should be no larger than that of a brigade command post. Normally, there will only be four or
five armored command control vehicles. Ideally, it would look more like a battalion task force CP.
It is normal to find the G3, U.S. Air Force (USAF) liaison officer, and the division artillery commander or
his assistant fire support coordinator operating from the tactical command post. Other officers or their
assistants may also operate from the tactical command post from time to time.
Division Main Command Post
The division main command post is located in the division rear area. It is normally beyond the range of
enemy field artillery. The main command post (CP) is organized as the commander directs. It normally
includes elements of the G1, G3, and G4. Also located there are the G2, combat electronic warfare
and intelligence battalion elements. The main CP would usually have elements from air defense
artillery, aviation, fire support, and nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) staff elements. An element
of the tactical air control party may also be located there. It is normally under the supervision of the
chief of staff.
The main command post performs such duties as the division commander requires. It is primarily a
communication and information center. The main CP usually has a tactical operations center (TOC).
Future operations are normally
MP1031
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