Which Article of the UCMJ authorizes Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP)?

The article of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) that authorizes Non-Judicial Punishment (NJP) is Article 15. This article provides commanding officers the authority to impose disciplinary measures on military personnel without resorting to a court-martial. NJP is intended to handle minor offenses in a more efficient and less formal manner, allowing for swift corrective action. Article 15 outlines the procedures for NJP, including the rights of service members, the types of offenses that can be addressed, and the possible punishments that can be imposed, such as reduction in rank, extra duties, or restrictions.

Understanding Article 15 is crucial for the enforcement of military discipline, as it ensures that minor infractions can be dealt with promptly, maintaining order and discipline within the ranks without the need for more severe judicial processes. This promotes a fair and reasonable approach to handling offenses, while preserving the ability for military leaders to maintain good order and discipline.