Bypass criteria are established by which level of command?

Bypass criteria are established primarily by higher echelon headquarters. These criteria are crucial in determining when a unit should avoid engagement with enemy forces and instead maneuver around them to achieve strategic objectives efficiently. Higher command levels possess a broader view of the battle space, allowing them to make informed decisions based on overall operational goals and the larger context of the mission. This ensures that bypassing potential threats aligns with the overall strategy and priorities of the entire operation, rather than being based solely on the tactical situation faced by individual units.

While unit commanders may have their own tactical considerations, they typically rely on the guidance and parameters set forth by higher headquarters to ensure cohesion and effectiveness in operations across the entire force. Consequently, the authority and rationale behind bypass criteria fundamentally stem from the strategic oversight of higher echelon headquarters.