[1] The order is awarded in five degrees for distinguished wartime conduct of units of the armed forces or individual personnel that has "proven expertise, a sense of responsibility and valour."

The order was continued on the unification of Italy in 1861 and was revived, under its new name, following the foundation of the Republic in 1946.

[2] It is bestowed by decree of the President of the Italian Republic, head of the order, on the recommendation of the Minister of Defence.

Recipients of the Ordine militare di Savoia were transferred retaining their existing accoutrements and seniority.

The various degrees of the order, which may be conferred posthumously, are as follows: The lowest of these may also be awarded for peacetime actions.