In the U.S. Navy, a commodore is ranked directly above a captain. This designation has historically been used, particularly during wartime, to denote an officer in charge of a squadron or task force who holds the permanent rank of captain but is temporarily exercising command equivalent to a flag officer.
Understanding the Rank of Captain
The rank of "captain" is significant across various military and maritime services worldwide, denoting a position of considerable responsibility. However, its standing within the hierarchy can vary greatly between branches. In the U.S. military, for example, a captain in the Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps is a company-grade officer, while a captain in the Navy is a senior officer.
Who Outranks a Captain in the U.S. Navy?
Within the U.S. Navy's rank structure, the officers who outrank a captain include:
- Commodore: This is a unique designation, rather than a permanent rank in the modern U.S. Navy's regular structure. When used, typically during wartime, a commodore is an officer (usually a captain) placed in command of a squadron or group of ships, and who, by virtue of that command, is temporarily elevated in precedence above other captains but below a rear admiral. This position signifies an officer who has the authority and responsibility akin to a flag officer without necessarily holding the flag rank permanently.
- Rear Admiral (Lower Half): Also known as Rear Admiral (One Star), this is the first permanent flag officer rank above captain.
- Rear Admiral (Upper Half): Also known as Rear Admiral (Two Star).
- Vice Admiral: (Three Star)
- Admiral: (Four Star)
- Fleet Admiral: (Five Star, used only in wartime, historically).
U.S. Navy Officer Rank Hierarchy Above Captain
To illustrate the command structure more clearly, here is a simplified hierarchy of senior officers in the U.S. Navy, starting from the rank of captain:
| Rank Category | U.S. Navy Rank | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Senior Officers | Captain | Commands major naval vessels or shore installations; equivalent to a Colonel in other services. |
| Flag Officers | Commodore | A designation above captain, historically and typically used in wartime, for an officer commanding a squadron or task force, ranking below a rear admiral. |
| Rear Admiral (Lower Half) | First flag officer rank; commands smaller fleets or divisions. | |
| Rear Admiral (Upper Half) | Commands larger fleets or groups. | |
| Vice Admiral | Commands major naval forces or components. | |
| Admiral | Commands entire fleets or major commands. | |
| Fleet Admiral (Historical/Wartime) | Highest possible rank, awarded in exceptional circumstances, usually during major wars. |
For more detailed information on military and maritime service ranks, you can refer to resources such as Britannica's article on Captain (military and maritime service rank).
