What is a primary role of the military in upholding martial law?

The primary role of the military in upholding martial law is to replace civil authority. When martial law is declared, it typically occurs in situations where the government is unable to maintain order due to emergencies such as natural disasters, civil unrest, or in times of war. Under these circumstances, the military assumes control to restore stability and ensure the security of the state.

This shift often involves the military taking over law enforcement functions, which can include maintaining public order, overseeing the enforcement of curfews, and ensuring the safety of civilians. By doing so, the military operates under the authority granted by the government, aiming to provide a structured response to the crisis at hand, where civil authority may be ineffective or compromised.