The principal regulatory document within the Department of the Navy is ______________.

The principal regulatory document within the Department of the Navy is the United States Navy Regulations. This document serves as the comprehensive framework that governs the behavior, duties, and administrative procedures of Navy personnel. It is the authoritative source for enforcing the standards of conduct, and it outlines the policies and responsibilities that sailors and officers must adhere to in their service.

The Navy Regulations encompass a wide array of topics, including command authority, discipline, and the operational requirements of the Navy, ensuring all personnel understand the expectations of their roles. It is essential for maintaining order and executing the mission of the Navy effectively.

In contrast, the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) addresses the legal framework for military justice but is not specifically a regulatory document of the Navy. The Operational Manual generally contains guidelines for specific operations and missions rather than overarching regulations. The Military Code of Conduct focuses on the behavior of service members in the context of warfare and captivity but does not serve as the central regulatory document for all aspects of Navy regulations.