Which command relationship involves the authority to organize and employ subordinate forces?

Operational control is the command relationship that grants the authority to organize and employ subordinate forces effectively. This relationship allows the commander to direct and coordinate a variety of resources and units in a manner that aligns with the mission objectives. It encompasses the ability to deploy these forces and assign specific tasks, making it crucial for mission success.

Operational control is typically less comprehensive than full command but enables the commander to ensure that subordinates are utilized effectively within the defined operational framework. This control is essential in joint and combined operations, where coordination between various forces is required to achieve strategic goals.

The other relationships, while important, do not encompass the same breadth of authority. Tactical control, for instance, is focused more on the immediate direction of forces in the field, whereas organizational control pertains to the structure of units rather than their deployment. Positive control generally refers to the detailed oversight of operations rather than the broader command structure necessary for organizing subordinate forces.