Who exercises COCOM over their assigned forces?

Combatant Commanders exercise Combatant Command (COCOM) over their assigned forces. This authority is part of the unified command structure of the U.S. military, where Combatant Commanders have the responsibility for specific operational missions. They direct and oversee military operations, ensuring that their forces are effectively utilized according to national defense strategies and objectives.

The COCOM authority allows these commanders to organize, train, and employ their assigned forces, giving them the flexibility and responsibility to manage operations within their area of responsibility (AOR). This includes making tactical decisions and coordinating with other branches of the military and allied forces to successfully execute their missions.

While the President, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and directors of organizations like the Defense Intelligence Agency play significant roles in national defense and military strategy, they do not exercise COCOM over forces. Their roles typically involve strategic oversight, policy formulation, and intelligence development rather than direct command of operational forces.