Which war fighting function encourages the greatest possible freedom of action from subordinates?

The correct answer is Mission Command because it emphasizes decentralized decision-making and empowers subordinates to exercise initiative within their assigned tasks. This war fighting function encourages leaders at all levels to understand their commander’s intent and to take appropriate actions to achieve that intent without needing to seek constant approval. By fostering a culture of trust and responsibility, Mission Command allows individuals to respond swiftly and adaptively to changing situations on the battlefield, which enhances overall operational effectiveness.

In contrast, Logistics, Intelligence, and Fire Support primarily focus on specific operational facets rather than the broader philosophy of authority and autonomy. Logistics manages the supply chain and support mechanisms, Intelligence deals with situational awareness and information gathering, and Fire Support coordinates the use of indirect fire to aid ground operations. While these functions are critical to mission success, they do not inherently promote the same level of freedom of action as Mission Command does.