Air Force Doctrine Publication 1-1, Mission Command
9
EXERCISE DISCIPLINED INITIATIVE
Disciplined initiative is the proactive application of inventiveness and creativity when
existing orders no longer fit the situation or when unforeseen threats or opportunities
arise. It must be informed by a shared understanding of mission objectives, desired
effects, overall commander’s intent, and the broader operational and strategic context.
Empowering subordinates to exercise disciplined initiative, informed by shared
understanding, allows Airmen to operate with greater freedom while still enabling
the high-level of coordination and synchronization required to employ airpower.
Exercising disciplined initiative requires competent, empowered Airmen who continually
seek a shared understanding of their environment and their place in the operational and
strategic context.
Exercising disciplined initiative provides rigidity within commander’s intent, yet retains
flexibility and responsiveness required to gain operational and tactical advantage in an
adverse environment. Commander’s intent outlines the parameters and boundaries under
which a subordinate may operate. Within those boundaries, the empowered subordinate
executes actions to achieve the goals of that mission. This freedom is not given lightly
and requires subordinates to be competent, capable, and possess a thorough
understanding of the operational environment.
BUILD TEAMS THROUGH MUTUAL TRUST
Mutual trust is shared confidence between commanders, subordinates, and partners that
demonstrates reliability and competence to carry out the mission. Importantly, trust can-
not be dictated; it must be earned and built over time through shared experiences.
Competence and integrity are the bedrock of trust. Shared experiences that showcase
these traits build confidence between commanders, subordinates, and partners. Failure
on its own cannot be the nemesis of trust. However, leaders should recognize that
incompetence, dishonesty, and pridefulness quickly erode trust.
Effective teams do not form spontaneously; they develop through deliberate effort.
Commanders and leaders should act proactively to create opportunities conducive to the
construction of team building and the establishment of trust between team members.
Trust requires leaders to place an emphasis on the team, on internal and external
collaboration, and on fostering an unwavering dedication to team values and principles.
ACCEPT PRUDENT RISK
All military operations contain uncertain, complex, ambiguous, and often volatile
elements. The complexity of the operational environment and the imperative to delegate
authority demands skillful risk assessment. Commanders must analyze risks in
collaboration with their subordinates to balance the tension between protecting the force
and accepting and managing the risks inherent in mission accomplishment.
Risk tolerance is a derivative of competence. The ability to assess and mitigate risk
increases through training, mentoring, education, and experience. It is imperative for
leaders to build and strengthen their own abilities and that of their subordinates charged
with executing the mission.