text: Army Sustainment at Echelon
  Figure 2-4. Joint command relationships
  Table 2-1. Joint support categories
  Category Definition
  Support given to the supported force as a whole and not to any particular
  General support
  subdivision thereof (JP 3-09.3).
  That support which units render each other throughout joint operations, because of
  Mutual support their assigned tasks, their position relative to each other and to the enemy, or their
  inherent capabilities (JP 3-31).
  A mission requiring a force to support another specific force and authorizing it to
  Direct support
  answer directly to the supported force’s request for assistance (JP 3-09.3).
  The action of the supporting force against targets or objectives that are sufficiently
  near the support force as to require detailed integration or coordination of the
  Close support
  supporting action with fire, movement, or other actions of the supported force
  (JP 3-31).
  ARMY COMMAND AND SUPPORT RELATIONSHIPS
  2-117. Command and control of Army sustainment units can pose unique challenges for both sustainment
  leaders and those supported. It is important that leaders understand all aspects of command and support
  relationships and their effects on the ability to meet the operational requirements. For example, attaching
  sustainment units to their supported formations allows them to better anticipate and integrate with their
  supported command, but with an adverse effect on economy. This may result in idle assets that cannot be
  redirected easily to support elsewhere. Conversely, pooling resources at higher levels can allow planners to
  maximize the use of scarce assets such as fuel tankers and heavy equipment transporter systems, but
  responsiveness may suffer as a result.
  2-118. Sustainment leaders must strive to strike the right balance, considering the supported commander’s
  intent and the possible outcomes of combat operations. If a commander expects an attack to turn into a pursuit
  of enemy forces, it may be prudent to assign additional Class III and V assets to a unit in order to extend its
  operational reach and give the commander the freedom of action to maintain momentum. On the other hand,
  if resources are scarce, such a course of action may negatively impact the rest of the formation. The risks to