Which order normally specifies the authority that the gaining combatant commander will exercise over the transferred forces?

• A. Operating Order
• B. Executive Order
• C. Deployment Order
• D. Authorization Order

Answer: (C)

Understanding who commands units after a transfer is defined by the deployment order. This document formalizes the move of forces from one command to another and grants the gaining commander the authority to direct those units for the specified mission, duration, and scope. It sets the command relationships and assigns responsibilities so unity of effort is maintained across the forces. An operating order is about how to execute a mission within established command lines, but it doesn’t establish who has authority over the transferred forces. An executive order is a civilian directive and not used to transfer military command between combatant commands. An authorization order isn’t the standard term or mechanism for transferring authority in this context.