The Defense Hierarchy, alternatively referred to as the Chiss military command or simply Chiss command, represented the military leadership structure of the Chiss Expansionary Defense Force. It comprised its senior officers, such as Admiral Ar'alani.
To become part of the Hierarchy, officers from the Chiss Defense Fleet were chosen and put through trials to demonstrate their capabilities. This selection process mirrored the way the Ruling Families chose merit adoptives. Upon promotion to a senior rank, individuals relinquished their family name and associated benefits, becoming integrated into the Hierarchy with the purpose of serving all Chiss impartially.