Specially prepared and equipped sites from which a staff exercises command and control of its forces or carries out combat alert tasks. For command and control purposes a network of command posts is established, one of which serves as the main command post. . The main command post comprises the following elements: a forward command post, an airborne command post and a railway command post. If a main command post ceases to function or is unable to exercise command and control, alternate main command posts are established in major and tactical formations and on warships in the case of the Navy. Command and control of logistics subunits, units and organizations is exercised from the rear area command post. An auxiliary command post is established for the command and control of a force grouping operating along a separate axis. Tactical formations may also establish a forward main command post when carrying out an offensive. Command posts are either fixed or mobile. Also called headquarters.