Editing United States Armed Forces (section)

==Service branches==
The United States Armed Forces is composed of six coequal military service branches. Five of the branches, the [[United States Army]], [[United States Marine Corps]], [[United States Navy]], [[United States Air Force]], and [[United States Space Force]], are part of the Department of Defense.

The [[United States Coast Guard]] is normally under the [[Department of Homeland Security]], but may be transferred to the Department of Defense's Department of the Navy (which is the civilian entity that oversees the coequal U.S. Marine Corps and U.S. Navy) at the direction of the President or Congress.

With the exception of the Coast Guard, the military services only organize, train, and equip forces. The unified combatant commands are responsible for operational control of non-service retained forces.

Each of the different military services is assigned a role and domain. The U.S. Army conducts land operations, while the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps conduct maritime operations, with the Marine Corps specializing in amphibious and maritime littoral operations in support of the Navy. The U.S. Air Force conducts air operations, while the U.S. Space Force conducts space operations.

The U.S. Coast Guard is unique in that it is a military branch specializing in maritime operations and also a law enforcement agency.<ref name="auto1"/><ref name="auto5"/>

===U.S. Army===
{{main|United States Army}}
[[File:M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles in Northeast Syria 2020.jpg|thumb|[[1st Armored Division (United States)|1st Armored Division]] infantry, an [[M2 Bradley]] armored vehicle, and [[AH-64 Apache]] attack helicopters as part of [[Combined Joint Task Force – Operation Inherent Resolve]] in Syria]]

The [[United States Army]] (USA) is the United States Armed Forces' land force and is the largest and oldest service. Originally established in 1775 as the [[Continental Army]], it consists of one million soldiers across the Regular Army, [[United States Army Reserve|Army Reserve]], and [[Army National Guard]].<ref name="auto1"/> The Army serves as the Armed Forces principal land service, responsible for conducting [[land warfare]] operations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.army.mil/about/|title=The Army's Vision and Strategy|website=The Army's Vision and Strategy &#124; The United States Army}}</ref>

The U.S. Army is organized under the [[United States Department of the Army|Department of the Army]], which is a military department under the leadership of the [[United States Secretary of the Army|secretary of the Army]] and [[United States Under Secretary of the Army|under secretary of the Army]]. The U.S. Army itself is led by the [[chief of staff of the United States Army|chief of staff of the Army]] and [[vice chief of staff of the United States Army|vice chief of staff of the Army]], both [[general (United States)|general]]s who are advised by the [[sergeant major of the Army]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.army.mil/|title=The Official Home Page of the United States Army|website=www.army.mil}}</ref>

The Army's primary responsibility is to conduct prompt and sustained land combat as part of the joint force. Army landpower focuses on destroying an enemy's armed forces, occupying its territory, and breaking the will of an adversary.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=https://armypubs.army.mil/epubs/DR_pubs/DR_a/pdf/web/ARN18008_ADP-1%20FINAL%20WEB.pdf|title=ADP1: The Army|publisher=US Army}}{{PD-notice}}</ref>

The five core competencies of the Army are:
* Prompt and sustained land combat
* Combined arms operations:
** Combined arms maneuver and wide area security
** Armored and mechanized operations
** Airborne and air assault operations
* Special operations
* Set and sustain the theater for the joint force
* Integrate national, multinational, and joint power on land<ref name="auto"/>

[[File:Defense.gov News Photo 110910-GO452-406 - U.S. Army paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division descend to the ground after jumping out of a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft over drop zone.jpg|thumb|[[82nd Airborne Division]] paratroopers parachuting from a [[U.S. Air Force]] [[C-17 Globemaster III]] transport plane]]

The thirteen specified functions of the Army are:
#Conduct prompt and sustained [[combined arms]] combat operations on land in all environments and types of terrain, to include complex urban environments, in order to defeat enemy ground forces, and seize, occupy, and defend land areas.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01">{{cite web|url=https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/issuances/dodd/510001p.pdf|title=DoDI 5100.01|publisher=US Department of Defense}}{{PD-notice}}</ref>
#Conduct [[air defense|air]] and [[missile defense]] to support joint campaigns and assist in achieving [[air superiority]]. This is conducted by the Army's [[Air Defense Artillery Branch]], specifically by the [[10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command]], [[32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command]], [[94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command]], [[263rd Army Air and Missile Defense Command]], and [[United States Army Space and Missile Defense Command|Army Space and Missile Defense Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[airborne forces|airborne]] and [[air assault]], and [[Amphibious warfare|amphibious]] operations. The Army has primary responsibility for the development of airborne doctrine, tactics, techniques, and procedures. Army airborne and air assault operations are conducted by the [[XVIII Airborne Corps]], [[11th Airborne Division]], [[82nd Airborne Division]], [[101st Airborne Division]], and the [[173rd Airborne Brigade]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[civil affairs]] operations. Civil affairs operations are conducted by the [[United States Army Special Operations Command]], predominantly under [[United States Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command]] and the [[95th Civil Affairs Brigade]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[Riverine warfare|riverine operations]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#[[military occupation|Occupy]] territories abroad and provide for the initial establishment of a [[military government]] pending transfer of this responsibility to other authorities.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#[[Interdiction|Interdict]] enemy [[sea power]], [[space warfare|space power]], [[airpower|air power]], and [[electronic warfare|communications]] through operations on and from the land.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Provide logistics to joint operations and campaigns, including joint over-the-shore and intra-theater transport of time-sensitive, mission-critical personnel and materiel. This is primarily conducted through the [[United States Army Logistics Branch|Army Logistics Branch]], including the [[United States Army Quartermaster Corps|Quartermaster Corps]], [[United States Army Ordnance Corps|Ordnance Corps]], [[Transportation Corps]], and through [[United States Army Materiel Command|Army Materiel Command]]'s [[Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Provide support to [[space warfare|space operations]] to enhance joint campaigns, in coordination with the other military services (primarily the [[United States Space Force]]), combatant commands (primarily [[United States Space Command]]), and other U.S. government departments and agencies. Army space operations are conducted by [[United States Army Space and Missile Defense Command|Army Space and Missile Defense Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct authorized [[civil works]] programs, to include projects for the improvement of [[navigation]], [[flood control]], [[Coastal erosion|beach erosion control]], and other water resource developments in the United States, its territories, and its possessions, and conduct other civil activities prescribed by law. These are conducted by the [[United States Army Corps of Engineers|Army Corps of Engineers]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Provide intra-theater [[aeromedical evacuation]]. These missions are flown by the [[Army Medical Department (United States)|Army Medical Service Corps]] and [[United States Army Aviation Branch|Army Aviation Branch]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[reconnaissance]], [[surveillance]], and [[target acquisition]].
#Operate [[Line of communication|land lines of communication]]. This is primarily conducted through the [[Transportation Corps]] and [[Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>

====Infantry====
{{main|Infantry Branch (United States)}}
[[File:U.S. Army Rangers, assigned to 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, prepare for extraction on Fort Hunter Liggett, California, Jan. 30, 2014.jpg|thumb|U.S. Army [[United States Army Rangers|Rangers]] with the [[75th Ranger Regiment]] prepare for extraction on a [[MH-47 Chinook]]]]

The Infantry Branch forms the core of the service's land combat power. U.S. Army infantry are generally equipped with the [[M4 carbine]] and [[M249 light machine gun]], which will be replaced by the [[XM7 rifle]] and [[XM250]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.military.com/daily-news/2022/04/20/it-will-be-long-time-soldiers-get-m4-and-saw-replacements.html | title=It Will be a Long Time Before Soldiers Get the M4 and SAW Replacements | date=20 April 2022 }}</ref>

Infantry is a core part of the Army's [[Brigade Combat Team]]s. The most numerous variant, the Infantry Brigade Combat Team, comprises [[light infantry]] battalions who fight on foot. Infantry Brigade Combat Teams of the [[82nd Airborne Division]] are [[air assault]] capable, with infantry soldiers being transported by U.S. Army Aviation [[UH-60 Black Hawk]] and [[CH-47 Chinook]] helicopters.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://home.army.mil/campbell/index.php/101st | title=101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) :: FORT CAMPBELL }}</ref> Infantry Brigade Combat Teams of the [[11th Airborne Division]], [[82nd Airborne Division]], and [[173rd Airborne Brigade]] are capable of [[airborne forces|airborne]] operations, in cooperation with the U.S. Air Force's transport aircraft.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://home.army.mil/bragg/index.php/units-tenants/xviii-airborne-co | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200530151530/https://home.army.mil/bragg/index.php/units-tenants/xviii-airborne-co | url-status=dead | archive-date=30 May 2020 | title=XVIII Airborne Corps :: Fort Bragg }}</ref> Finally, Infantry Brigade Combat Teams assigned to the [[10th Mountain Division]] specialize in [[mountain warfare]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.army.mil/article/243626/mountain_warfare_training_rated_a_solid_mount_ten | title=Mountain warfare training rated a solid Mount-ten! | date=23 February 2021 }}</ref> Standard Infantry Brigade Combat Teams are assigned to the [[25th Infantry Division (United States)|25th Infantry Division]], which offers additional training in [[jungle warfare]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.army.mil/article/190264/jungle_operations_training_course_challenges_mental_physical_readiness | title=Jungle Operations Training Course challenges mental, physical readiness | date=3 July 2017 }}</ref>

Armored Brigade Combat Teams comprise [[mechanized infantry]] battalions mounted in the [[M2 Bradley]] [[infantry fighting vehicle]]. Divisions with Armored Brigade Combat Teams include the [[1st Infantry Division (United States)|1st Infantry Division]], [[3rd Infantry Division (United States)|3rd Infantry Division]], [[4th Infantry Division (United States)|4th Infantry Division]], [[1st Infantry Division (United States)|1st Armored Division]], and [[1st Cavalry Division (United States)|1st Cavalry Division]].<ref name="auto14">{{Cite web|url=https://www.benning.army.mil/Infantry/cadet-branching/Content/PDF/Force%20Structure.pdf?24JUN2020|title=Force Structure|website=benning.army.mil|access-date=27 February 2023|archive-date=27 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227022037/https://www.benning.army.mil/Infantry/cadet-branching/Content/PDF/Force%20Structure.pdf?24JUN2020|url-status=dead}}</ref> Stryker Brigade Combat Teams are centered around Stryker infantry battalions operating out of the [[Stryker]]. Divisions with Stryker Brigade Combat Teams include the [[2nd Infantry Division (United States)|2nd Infantry Division]], [[4th Infantry Division (United States)|4th Infantry Division]], [[11th Airborne Division]], [[2nd Cavalry Regiment (United States)|2nd Cavalry Regiment]], and [[3rd Cavalry Regiment (United States)|3rd Cavalry Regiment]].<ref name="auto14"/>

[[United States Army Rangers]] with the [[75th Ranger Regiment]] are an elite [[special operations]] infantry force in the [[United States Army Special Operations Command]], specializing in air assault and airborne infiltration methods. The three primary missions of the 75th Ranger Regiment are [[Direct action (military)|special operations raids]], forcible entry operations, such as an airfield seizure to enable the Air Force to bring in more forces, and [[special reconnaissance]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/specialty-careers/special-ops/army-rangers.html |title=Army Rangers }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.soc.mil/rangers/75thrr.html|title=75th Ranger Regiment Home Page|website=www.soc.mil}}</ref> As a special operations force, Army Rangers are generally better equipped than standard infantry, utilizing the [[FN SCAR]] rifle.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://sofrep.com/gear/the-fn-scar/|title=The FN SCAR!|website=SOFREP|access-date=27 February 2023|archive-date=27 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227022037/https://sofrep.com/gear/the-fn-scar/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

====Army Special Forces====
{{main|United States Army Special Forces}}
[[File:56th CRD Dugway VALEX Image 3 of 9 6802121 210809-A-LS380-003.jpg|thumb|upright|Soldiers from the [[5th Special Forces Group]] conduct sensitive site exploitation training]]

[[United States Army Special Forces|Army Special Forces]], commonly known as Green Berets after their iconic headgear, are among the most elite soldiers in the Army. Special Forces conduct:<ref name="Special Forces">{{cite web | url=https://www.goarmysof.army.mil/SF/ | title=Special Forces }}</ref>

*[[counterinsurgency]] distinguishing between civilians and enemy combatants while assisting with the stabilization, defense, and training of developing countries facing insurgent threats.
*[[direct action (military)|direct action]] seizing, capturing, recovering, or destroying enemy material; or utilizing quick strikes to recover personnel.
*[[foreign internal defense]] training and equipping foreign allied military forces to defend against insurgency, subversion, terrorism, and other security threats.
*[[special reconnaissance]] executing surveillance in hostile, denied, or diplomatically- or politically-sensitive environments to collect or verify information of strategic significance.
*[[Unconventional warfare (United States)|unconventional warfare]] enabling a resistance movement or insurgency to coerce, disrupt, or overthrow a government or occupying power by operating through or with an underground force in a denied area.
 
Army Special Forces are trained in [[High-altitude military parachuting|military free-fall parachuting]] and [[combat diver]] skillsets.<ref name="Special Forces"/> They are considered the most versatile special operations force in the entire world, operating as a multi-purpose force since 1952.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.military.com/military-fitness/army-special-operations/army-special-forces-overview | title=What It Means to be Part of the Army Special Forces | date=8 February 2022 }}</ref>

====Armor and Cavalry====
{{main|Armor Branch}}
[[File:1-1 CD conducting defensive operations during Combined Resolve II (14094962478).jpg|thumb|[[1st Cavalry Division (United States)|1st Cavalry Division]] [[M1 Abrams]] tanks during a training exercise in Germany]]

The Armor Branch traces its history back to the [[United States Cavalry]] and are responsible for tank and cavalry reconnaissance operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.goarmy.com/careers-and-jobs/career-match/ground-forces/tanks-machinery/19a-armor-officer.html | title=Armor Officer }}</ref>

The U.S. Army fields the [[M1 Abrams]] [[main battle tank]] in Armored Battalions as part of Armored Brigade Combat Teams across the [[1st Infantry Division (United States)|1st Armored Division]], [[1st Cavalry Division (United States)|1st Cavalry Division]], [[1st Infantry Division (United States)|1st Infantry Division]], [[3rd Infantry Division (United States)|3rd Infantry Division]], and the [[4th Infantry Division (United States)|4th Infantry Division]]. Each Armored Brigade Combat Team also possesses a cavalry squadron equipped with [[M2 Bradley]]s for scouting and security. Stryker Brigade Combat Teams from the [[2nd Infantry Division (United States)|2nd Infantry Division]], [[4th Infantry Division (United States)|4th Infantry Division]], [[11th Airborne Division]], [[2nd Cavalry Regiment (United States)|2nd Cavalry Regiment]], and [[3rd Cavalry Regiment (United States)|3rd Cavalry Regiment]] have a cavalry squadron equipped with [[Stryker]]s. Infantry Brigade Combat Teams from the [[10th Mountain Division]], [[11th Airborne Division]], [[25th Infantry Division (United States)|25th Infantry Division]], [[82nd Airborne Division]], [[101st Airborne Division]], and [[173rd Airborne Brigade]] have a cavalry squadron equipped with the [[Joint Light Tactical Vehicle]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.benning.army.mil/armor/Cadet-Branching/content/PDF/Armor%20Branch%20Trifold.pdf?13JUN2022|title=Armor Branch Trifold|website=benning.army.mil|access-date=27 February 2023|archive-date=27 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227022031/https://www.benning.army.mil/armor/Cadet-Branching/content/PDF/Armor%20Branch%20Trifold.pdf?13JUN2022|url-status=dead}}</ref>

====Field Artillery====
{{main|Field Artillery Branch (United States)}}
[[File:Firing High Mobility Artillery Rocket systems.jpg|thumb|[[M142 HIMARS]] from the [[3rd Field Artillery Regiment (United States)|5th Battalion, 3rd Field Artillery Regiment]]]]

The Field Artillery's mission is to destroy, suppress or neutralize the enemy by cannon, rocket or missile fire.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://sill-www.army.mil/fapo/cadets/ | title=Cadets &#124; Field Artillery Proponent Office (FAPO) &#124; Fort Sill }}</ref> Rocket systems include the [[M142 HIMARS]] and [[M270 multiple launch rocket system]], which are corps-level assets found in field artillery brigades. Towed artillery includes the [[M119 howitzer]] in infantry brigade combat teams and the [[M777 howitzer]] found in both infantry and Stryker brigade combat teams. The [[M109 howitzer|M109 self-propelled howitzer]] is utilized in armored brigade combat teams.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://tradocfcoeccafcoepfwprod.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net/fapo/cadets/doc/fa-handbook.pdf|title=Field Artillery King of Battle|website=tradocfcoeccafcoepfwprod.blob.core.usgovcloudapi.net}}</ref>

During the Cold War, Army field artillery was responsible for the service's ballistic missile programs, including the [[PGM-11 Redstone]], which was the first large ballistic missile in the U.S. arsenal, the [[MGM-31 Pershing]], and the [[Pershing II]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://history.redstone.army.mil/miss.html | title=The United States Army }}</ref> In 2023, the Army is intending to field the [[Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon]] and has reestablished larger artillery formations like the [[56th Artillery Command]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://breakingdefense.com/2021/08/confident-of-2023-fielding-goal-army-dubs-hypersonic-weapon-dark-eagle/ | title='Confident' of 2023 Fielding Goal, Army Dubs Hypersonic Weapon 'Dark Eagle' | date=11 August 2021 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.armytimes.com/news/your-army/2023/01/01/first-unit-fielding-army-hypersonic-missile-in-2023/ | title=First unit fielding Army hypersonic missile in 2023 | date=January 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.defensenews.com/news/your-army/2021/11/03/army-resurrects-artillery-command-in-europe/ | title=Army resurrects artillery command in Europe | date=3 November 2021 }}</ref>

====Air Defense Artillery====
{{main|Air Defense Artillery Branch}}
[[File:220305-F-EI268-1044 - Arctic sky illuminates Patriot (Image 2 of 2).jpg|thumb|An [[MIM-104 Patriot]] missile battery in [[Alaska]] operated by the [[11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade (United States)|11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade]]]]

The Air Defense Artillery is responsible for defending geopolitical assets and providing maneuver forces with the freedom to move on the battlefield by deterring the enemy and destroying aerial threats, missile attacks, and surveillance platforms.<ref name="auto9">{{cite web | url=https://sill-www.army.mil/ocada/ada.html | title=OCADA &#124; Fort Sill }}</ref> Weapons employed by Air Defense Artillery include the [[FIM-92 Stinger]] [[man-portable air-defense system]], [[AN/TWQ-1 Avenger]] for [[short range air defense]], and the [[counter rocket, artillery, and mortar]] 20mm gun system. The [[Iron Dome]] provides air defense against rockets, artillery, mortars, missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles. The [[MIM-104 Patriot]] is capable of defeating a wide range of threats including aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, ballistic and cruise missiles, and Weapons of Mass Destruction.<ref name="auto9"/>

The [[Terminal High Altitude Area Defense]] protects strategic critical assets by conducting long-range endo-and-exo-atmospheric engagements of ballistic missiles using the world's largest air-transportable X-band radar. The [[Ground-Based Midcourse Defense]] is an [[anti-ballistic missile]] system operated by [[Army Space and Missile Defense Command]] to defend the United States homeland against an intercontinental ballistic missile attack.<ref name="auto9"/> Major Air Defense Artillery units include the [[32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command]] and Army Space and Missile Defense Command's [[100th Missile Defense Brigade]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.army.mil/32ndAAMDC | title=32nd Army Air and Missile Defense Command }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.smdc.army.mil/ORGANIZATION/100thMDB/ | title=100th Missile Defense Brigade }}</ref>

Air Defense Artillery has an extremely close relationship with the Air Force through its Air and Missile Defense Commands and the Space Force through Army Space and Missile Defense Command, given their shared missile defense and space roles. In 1962, Air Defense Artillery achieved the first intercept of a ballistic missile with a nuclear-tipped [[Nike Zeus]] and operated the Nike Zeus as an [[anti-satellite weapon]] after completing a successful intercept in 1963.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.smdc.army.mil/Portals/38/Documents/Publications/History/SMDC%20History%20Booklet_508_Final.pdf|title=A Chronological Review of 60 Years|website=smdc.army.mil}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.ausa.org/articles/realign-air-defense-structure|title=Realign Air Defense Structure|date=23 June 2021|website=AUSA}}</ref>

====Army Aviation====
{{main|United States Army Aviation Branch}}
[[File:Cav troopers conduct maneuver operations 140713-A-HD608-014.jpg|thumb|Formation of [[UH-60 Blackhawk]]s with the [[1st Cavalry Division (United States)|1st Cavalry Division]]]]

Army Aviation, distinct from the U.S. Air Force and its predecessors, began as part of the field artillery in 1942. Small spotter planes were used to spot for artillery and naval bombardment, as well as to perform observation. These few aircraft formed the core of Army Aviation once the U.S. Air Force gained independence. In 1983, the Army created the Aviation Branch, for the first time since the Air Force's independence consolidating aviation under a single organization.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.armyaviationmuseum.org/discover/ | title=Discover | date=27 October 2016 }}</ref>

The mission of Army Aviation is to find, fix and destroy any enemy through fire and maneuver and to provide combat support and combat service support in coordinated operations as an integral member of the combined arms team.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.army.mil/aviation/modern/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150512000801/http://www.army.mil/aviation/modern/ | url-status=dead | archive-date=12 May 2015 | title=Modern Aviation – United States Army Aviation }}</ref> Major aircraft include the [[AH-64 Apache]], which serves as the Army's attack helicopter, the [[UH-60 Black Hawk]], and the [[CH-47 Chinook]] for troop and cargo transport. Army Aviation also flies the [[MQ-1C Gray Eagle]] drone.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://asc.army.mil/web/weapons-systems-portfolio-has-moved/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240202174526/https://asc.army.mil/web/weapons-systems-portfolio-has-moved/ | url-status=dead | archive-date=2 February 2024 | title=MQ-1C Gray Eagle Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) – USAASC }}</ref>

A specialized unit within Army Aviation, the [[160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne)]] serves as a special operations unit and operates modified variants of the MH-60 Black Hawk, MH-47 Chinook, and the [[MH-6 Little Bird]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.soc.mil/USASOAC/160th.html | title=160th SOAR (A) Page }}</ref>

====Army commands====
The U.S. Army is organized into four major Army Commands, nine [[Army Service Component Command]]s which serve as the Army component and [[Joint Force Land Component Commander|joint force land component commander]]s for the [[unified combatant command]]s, and thirteen direct reporting units.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.army.mil/organization/|title=Organization|website=Organization &#124; The United States Army}}</ref>

{|class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=2|Name
!Mission
!Headquarters
|-
|[[File:US Army Star Logo SSI.png|75px]]
|[[United States Department of the Army|Headquarters Department of the Army]] (HQDA) 
| Army service headquarters led by the [[chief of staff of the United States Army|chief of staff of the Army]]. 
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia
|-
!colspan=5| Army Commands and reserve components
|-
|[[File:United States Army Forces Command SSI.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Army Forces Command|U.S. Army Forces Command]] (FORSCOM)
|Provides Army land forces to [[unified combatant command]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.army.mil/FORSCOM|title=U.S. Army Forces Command|website=www.army.mil}}</ref>
|[[Fort Bragg]], North Carolina
|-
|[[File:AMC shoulder insignia.svg|75px]] 
|[[United States Army Materiel Command|U.S. Army Materiel Command]] (AMC)
| Provides technology, acquisition support, and logistics for Army land forces.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.army.mil/amc|archive-url=https://archive.today/20121212211211/http://www.army.mil/amc|url-status=dead|archive-date=12 December 2012|title=U.S. Army Materiel Command|website=www.army.mil}}</ref>
|[[Redstone Arsenal]], Alabama
|-
|[[File:TRADOC patch.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Army Training and Doctrine Command|U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command]] (TRADOC)
|Recruits, trains, and educates Army soldiers and develops Army doctrine.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tradoc.army.mil/about/|title=About – U.S. Army Training Doctrine and Command|website=www.tradoc.army.mil}}</ref>
|[[Fort Eustis]], Virginia
|-
|[[File:Army Futures Command SSI.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Army Futures Command|U.S. Army Futures Command]] (AFC)
|Leads Army modernization efforts, including developing future force requirements, designing future force organizations, and delivering materiel capabilities.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.army.mil/futures|title=Futures|website=www.army.mil}}</ref>
|Austin, Texas
|-
|[[File:Seal of the United States Army Reserve.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Army Reserve|U.S. Army Reserve]] (USAR)
|Oversees and maintains Army reserve forces
|[[Fort Bragg]], North Carolina
|-
|[[File:Seal of the Army National Guard.png|75px]]
|[[Army National Guard]] (ARNG)
|Army component of the [[National Guard (United States)|National Guard]].
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia
|-
|}

===U.S. Marine Corps===
{{main|United States Marine Corps}}
[[File:US Marines, Gulf, international partners simulate amphib landing during Eagle Resolve 150324-M-AR522-437.jpg|thumb|[[24th Marine Expeditionary Unit]] Marines during a simulated amphibious assault operation]]

The [[United States Marine Corps]] (USMC) serves as the U.S. Armed Forces' naval land force, responsible for executing [[amphibious warfare]] and operating in the maritime littorals in support of the U.S. Navy. Originally established in 1775 as the [[Continental Marines]], the Marine Corps consists of the Regular Marine Corps and the [[United States Marine Corps Reserve|Marine Corps Reserve]].<ref name="auto3">{{Cite web|url=https://www.marines.mil/The-Corps/|title=The Corps|website=www.marines.mil}}</ref> The Marine Corps maintains a very close relationship with the U.S. Navy, its sister service in the Department of the Navy. Although the Marine Corps has previously operated as an independent land force alongside the Army, its primary purpose is to serve as part of a unified naval service alongside the Navy in the maritime domain.<ref name="auto4">{{Cite web|url=https://www.military.com/daily-news/2020/01/08/fleet-marine-force-back-commandant-pushes-return-naval-roots.html|title='Fleet Marine Force' Is Back as Commandant Pushes Return to Naval Roots|first=Gina|last=Harkins|date=9 January 2020|website=Military.com}}</ref>

The U.S. Marine Corps is organized under the [[United States Department of the Navy|Department of the Navy]], which is a military department under the leadership of the [[United States Secretary of the Navy|secretary of the Navy]] and the [[United States Under Secretary of the Navy|under secretary of the Navy]]. The U.S. Marine Corps itself is led by the [[Commandant of the United States Marine Corps|commandant of the Marine Corps]] and the [[Assistant Commandant of the Marine Corps|assistant commandant of the Marine Corps]], both [[general (United States)|generals]] who are advised by the [[Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps|sergeant major of the Marine Corps]].<ref name="auto3"/>

The Marine Corps statutory mission is outlined in {{USC|10|5063}} and as originally introduced under the [[National Security Act of 1947]], with its three primary areas of responsibility including:
* Seizure or defense of advanced naval bases and other land operations to support [[naval warfare|naval campaigns]];
* Development of tactics, technique, and equipment used by amphibious landing forces in coordination with the [[United States Army|Army]] and [[United States Air Force|Air Force]]; and
* Such other duties as the [[President of the United States|president]] or [[United States Department of Defense|Department of Defense]] may direct.

[[File:15th MEU takes to the skies 151130-M-GC438-274.jpg|thumb|A [[15th Marine Expeditionary Unit]] [[AH-1Z Viper]] flying over the {{USS|Anchorage|LPD-23}}]]

The seven specified functions of the Marine Corps are:
#Seize and defend advanced [[naval base]]s or lodgments to facilitate subsequent joint operations.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Provide [[close air support]] for ground forces.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[land warfare|land]] and [[aerial warfare|air operations]] essential to the prosecution of a [[naval warfare|naval campaign]] or as directed.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct complex [[Expeditionary warfare|expeditionary operations]] in the urban littorals and other challenging environments.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[amphibious warfare|amphibious operations]], including engagement, [[crisis response]], and [[power projection]] operations to assure access. The Marine Corps has primary responsibility for the development of amphibious doctrine, tactics, techniques, and equipment.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Conduct [[Stability and support operations|security and stability operation]]s and assist with the initial establishment of a [[military government]] pending transfer of responsibility to other authorities.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>
#Provide security detachments and units for service on armed vessels of the Navy, provide protection of naval property at naval stations and bases, provide security at designated U.S. [[embassy|embassies and consulates]], and perform other such duties as the president or secretary of defense may direct. These additional duties may not detract from or interfere with the operations for which the Marine Corps is primarily organized.

[[Marine Corps Security Force Regiment]] is responsible for supporting the Navy with Marine security operations, while the [[Marine Security Guard]] protects embassies and consulates of the [[United States Department of State]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01"/>

====Fleet Marine Force====
{{main|Fleet Marine Force}}
[[File:Four F-35B Lightning II aircraft perform a flyover above the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA 6) during the Lightning Carrier Proof of Concept Demonstration (30357956614).jpg|thumb|Four Marine Corps [[F-35B Lightning II]] stealth fighters flying over the {{USS|America|LHA-6}}]]

The combat power of the Marine Corps is centralized in the [[Fleet Marine Force]] (FMF), which itself is organized into [[Fleet Marine Force Atlantic]], to support the U.S. Navy's [[United States Fleet Forces Command|Fleet Forces Command]], and [[Fleet Marine Force Pacific]], which supports the [[U.S. Navy]]'s [[United States Pacific Fleet|U.S. Pacific Fleet]].<ref name="auto4"/>

The basic Marine Corps unit for conducting operations is the [[Marine Air-Ground Task Force]] (MAGTF), which combines Marine Corps and Navy land, air, sea, and cyberspace capabilities into a single command. There are three size variants of a Marine Air-Ground Task Force, but each consists of a [[command element (United States Marine Corps)|command element]], [[ground combat element]], [[aviation combat element]], and [[logistics combat element]].<ref name="auto7">{{Cite web|url=https://www.marines.com/about-the-marine-corps/marine-corps-structure/air-ground-task-force.html|title=Marine Air-Ground Task Force &#124; MAGTF &#124; Marines}}</ref>

A Marine [[ground combat element]] (GCE) is centered around Marine infantry, typically armed with a [[M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2019/04/19/all-of-the-marine-m27-rifles-are-in-if-youre-not-a-grunt-or-working-with-them-youre-not-getting-one/ | title=All of the Marine M27 rifles are in ― if you're not a grunt or working with them, you're not getting one | date=21 April 2019 }}</ref> Unlike the Army, the Marine Corps does not train its own [[combat medic]]s, relying on the Navy to provide [[hospital corpsman|hospital corpsmen]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/3107280/marines-navy-corpsmen-train-in-casualty-care-field-exercise-at-fort-mccoy/ | title=Marines, Navy Corpsmen train in casualty care field exercise at Fort McCoy }}</ref> These infantry units are supported by Marine Corps [[combat engineer]]s, who conduct engineer reconnaissance, obstacle system emplacement, and breaching operations; and [[United States Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance|Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance]] teams. While the Marine Corps no longer operates its own tanks, opting to request support from the Army if needed, it maintains Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalions which operate the [[LAV-25]] amphibious armored reconnaissance vehicle. Assault Amphibian Battalions operate the [[Assault Amphibious Vehicle]] and [[Amphibious Combat Vehicle]], which enable the ground combat element to conduct amphibious landing operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2019/01/07/the-aging-marine-lav-is-still-active-across-the-corps-and-now-is-also-a-museum-piece/ | title=The aging Marine LAV is still active across the Corps ... And, now, also is a museum piece | date=7 January 2019 }}</ref> Marine Corps artillery operates the [[M777 howitzer]] and the [[M142 HIMARS]], both supporting the ground combat element and the Navy at sea by striking enemy ships.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.usna.edu/MarineCorps/roles/index.php | title=Ground Combat Roles }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2021/04/09/how-a-marine-corps-shift-to-long-ranges-may-change-its-strong-cannoneer-tradition/ | title=How a Marine Corps shift to long ranges may change its strong cannoneer tradition | date=9 April 2021 }}</ref>

[[File:Defense.gov News Photo 051115-N-3527B-068.jpg|thumb|[[MV-22 Osprey]] tiltrotor aircraft from [[VMX-22]] taking off from the {{USS|Wasp|LHD-1}}]]

The Marine [[aviation combat element]] (ACE) is the operational arm of [[United States Marine Corps Aviation|Marine Corps Aviation]], working to support the ground combat element. The [[F-35B Lightning II]] and [[AV-8B Harrier II]] are flown off Navy amphibious assault ships, while the [[F-35C Lightning II]] and [[F/A-18 Hornet]] are flown off Navy carriers by Marine Corps pilots. The Marine Corps also operates the [[KC-130J]] to serve as a tanker and tactical airlift platform. The [[UH-1Y Venom]] helicopter provides the Marine Corps with light transport and attack, while the [[AH-1Z Viper]] is a dedicated attack helicopter. Medium-lift squadrons fly the [[MV-22 Osprey]], while heavy-lift squadrons use the [[CH-53K King Stallion]]. The Marine Corps has also begun flying unmanned aerial vehicles, such as the [[MQ-9 Reaper]] and [[MQ-8 Fire Scout]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.marinecorpstimes.com/news/your-marine-corps/2022/05/10/heres-how-marine-air-power-will-shift-with-the-corps-2022-aviation-plan/ | title=Here's how Marine air power will shift with the Corps' 2022 aviation plan | date=11 May 2022 }}</ref> Notably, the aviation combat element also includes Low-Altitude Air Defense Battalions, which employ the [[FIM-92 Stinger]] surface-to-air missile.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://coffeeordie.com/marine-corps-low-altitude-air-defense | title=Marine Corps Ready to Bring the Sting to Enemy Aircraft, Drones | date=3 February 1984 }}</ref>

The smallest MAGTF is the [[Marine Expeditionary Unit]] (MEU), which is typically forward deployed on a Navy ship. Commanded by a [[colonel (United States)|colonel]], a Marine Expeditionary Unit consist of 2,200 marines split across a battalion landing team (ground combat element), a composite helicopter squadron (aviation combat element), and a combat logistics element (logistics element). Marine Expeditionary Units are supplied for 15 days.<ref name="auto7"/> Forward deployed Marine Expeditionary Units are often embarked on Navy amphibious assault ships as part of an [[amphibious ready group]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.26thmeu.marines.mil/About/Who-We-Are/#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20MAGTF%3F,the%20range%20of%20military%20operations | title=Who We Are | access-date=26 February 2023 | archive-date=26 February 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226184737/https://www.26thmeu.marines.mil/About/Who-We-Are/#:~:text=What%20is%20a%20MAGTF%3F,the%20range%20of%20military%20operations | url-status=dead }}</ref>

The mid-sized MAGTF is the [[Marine Expeditionary Brigade]] (MEB), which is organized for specific missions. Commanded by a [[brigadier general (United States)|brigadier general]], Marine Expeditionary Brigades consist of 4,000 to 16,000 marines across a Regimental-sized ground combat element, a Marine Aircraft Group, and a Combat Logistics Regiment. Marine Expeditionary Brigades are supplied for 30 days and offer increased firepower and airpower over the Marine Expeditionary Unit.<ref name="auto7"/>

The largest MAGTF is the [[Marine Expeditionary Force]] (MEF), which is the primary warfighting force for larger operations. A Marine Expeditionary Force is commanded by a [[lieutenant general (United States)|lieutenant general]] and consists of 46,000 to 90,000 marines. Currently there are only three Marine Expeditionary Forces, each with its own Marine Division, Marine Aircraft Wing, Marine Logistics Group, and Marine Expeditionary Force Information Group. Marine Expeditionary Forces are supplied for 60 days.<ref name="auto7"/> Certain elements are held at the Marine Expeditionary Force level, such as [[United States Marine Corps Force Reconnaissance|Force Reconnaissance]]. The MEF Information Group (MIG) also provides a number of functions such as the intelligence battalion; [[Radio Battalion|radio battalion]] which conducts signals intelligence, electronic warfare, and cyberspace operations; communications battalion; the MEF support battalion; and the [[Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.imef.marines.mil/Units/I-MIG/ | title=I MEF Information Group }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.imef.marines.mil/Units/I-MIG/1ST-RADIO-BN/ | title=I Marine Expeditionary Force > Units > I MIG > 1ST RADIO BN }}</ref>

[[File:Marsoc vbss.jpg|thumb|[[Marine Raiders|Marine raiders]] with the [[1st Marine Raider Battalion (MARSOC)|1st Marine Raider Battalion]] conducting a [[visit, board, search, and seizure]] operation]]

While not a MAGTF, the Marine Corps has begun to reorganize some of its regiments into Marine Littoral Regiments (MRL), which are similar in size to a Marine Expeditionary Unit. A Marine Littoral Regiment is a self-deployable force, designed to be naval in nature and operate in the littoral region. A Marine Littoral Regiment consists of a littoral combat team, a littoral anti-air battalion, and a combat logistics battalion. Notably, the Marine Littoral Regiment has no aviation combat element, unlike a Marine Expeditionary Unit.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/2708146/marine-littoral-regiment-mlr/https://www.marines.mil/News/News-Display/Article/2708146/marine-littoral-regiment-mlr/|title=Marine Littoral Regiment (MLR)|website=United States Marine Corps Flagship}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

Another Marine Corps element that does not function as part of the MAGTF is the [[Marine Raider Regiment]], functioning under [[United States Marine Forces Special Operations Command]]. [[Marine Raiders]] specialize in direct action, unconventional warfare, maritime interdiction, special reconnaissance, foreign internal defense, counterterrorism, and counterinsurgency missions.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://coffeeordie.com/marine-raiders/ | title=Marine Raiders: The Corps' Only Special Operations Unit | date=30 November 2022 }}</ref>

====Marine Corps commands====
Under Headquarters Marine Corps, the Marine Corps is organized into the [[Fleet Marine Force]], multiple commands, and Marine Corps service components to the [[unified combatant commands]].

{|class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=2|Name
!Mission
!Headquarters
|-
|[[File:Seal of the United States Marine Corps.svg|75px]]
|[[Headquarters Marine Corps]] (HQMC) 
| Marine Corps service headquarters led by the [[Commandant of the United States Marine Corps|commandant of the Marine Corps]]. 
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia
|-
!colspan=5| Fleet Marine Force
|-
|[[File:FMFLANT (official).jpg|75px]]
|[[Fleet Marine Force, Atlantic]] (FMFLANT) / [[United States Marine Corps Forces Command|U.S. Marine Corps Forces Command]] (MARFORCOM)
|Provides Marine Corps forces in support of the U.S. Navy's [[United States Fleet Forces Command]]. Also serves as [[United States Marine Corps Forces Command]], commanding Marine Corps retained service forces and providing forces for joint, naval, and service requirements.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marforcom.marines.mil/About/|title=About|website=www.marforcom.marines.mil}}</ref>
|[[Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads]], Virginia
|-
|[[File:Seal of U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific.png|75px]]
|[[Fleet Marine Force, Pacific]] (FMFPAC)
|Provides Marine Corps forces in support of the U.S. Navy's [[United States Pacific Fleet]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marforpac.marines.mil/|title=U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Pacific – Ensuring a Free and Open Indo-Pacific|website=www.marforpac.marines.mil}}</ref>
|[[Camp H. M. Smith]], Hawaii
|-
|[[File:MCSCLOGO VECTOR.png|75px]]
|[[Marine Corps Systems Command]] (MARCORSYSCOM)
|Acquisition command for all Marine Corps ground and information technology programs.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marcorsyscom.marines.mil/About-Us/OverviewandHistory/|title=Marine Corps Systems Command: Equipping Our Marines|website=www.marcorsyscom.marines.mil}}</ref>
|[[Marine Corps Base Quantico]], Virginia 
|-
|[[File:Marine Forces Reserve insignia (transparent background).png|75px]]
|[[United States Marine Corps Reserve|U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve]] (MARFORRES)
|Oversees and maintains the U.S. Marine Corps reserve forces.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.marforres.marines.mil/About/Mission-Statement/|title=Mission|website=www.marforres.marines.mil}}</ref>
|[[Marine Corps Support Facility New Orleans]], Louisiana
|-
|}

===U.S. Navy===
{{main|United States Navy}}
[[File:The Nimitz-class aircraft carriers USS John C. Stennis (CVN 74), left, and USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) conduct dual aircraft carrier strike group operations (27142323334).jpg|thumb|{{USS|John C. Stennis|CVN-74}} and {{USS|Ronald Reagan|CVN-76}} conducting dual carrier strike group operations as part of the [[United States Seventh Fleet]]]]

The United States Navy (USN) is the United States Armed Forces' maritime force. Originally established in 1775 as the [[Continental Navy]], the U.S. Navy consists of the Regular Navy and the [[United States Navy Reserve|Navy Reserve]]. The Navy is the United States' principal maritime service, responsible for [[naval warfare|maritime warfare]] operations.<ref name="auto6">{{Cite web|url=https://www.navy.mil/About/|title=About|website=www.navy.mil}}</ref>

The U.S. Navy is organized under the [[United States Department of the Navy|Department of the Navy]], which is a military department under the leadership of the [[United States Secretary of the Navy|secretary of the Navy]] and the [[United States Under Secretary of the Navy|under secretary of the Navy]]. The U.S. Navy itself is led by the [[chief of naval operations]] and the [[vice chief of naval operations]], both [[admiral (United States)|admirals]] who are advised by the [[master chief petty officer of the Navy]].<ref name="auto6"/>

The five enduring functions of the Navy are:<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cimsec.org/naval-warfare-2010-2020-a-comparative-analysis/45129|title = Naval Warfare 2010–2020: A Comparative Analysis|date = 6 August 2020}}</ref>
*[[Sea control]]
*[[Power projection]]
*[[Deterrence theory|Deterrence]]
*[[Maritime security]]
*[[Sealift]]

[[File:US Navy 031200-N-0000X-001 The guided missile cruiser USS Vicksburg (CG 69), and the guided missile destroyers USS Roosevelt (DDG 80), USS Carney (DDG 64) and USS The Sullivans (DDG 68) launch a coordinated volley of missiles d.jpg|thumb|The {{USS|Vicksburg|CG-69}}, {{USS|Roosevelt|DDG-80}}, {{USS|Carney|DDG-64}}, and {{USS|The Sullivans|DDG-68}} launching a coordinated missile volley]]
The nine specified tasks of the Navy are:
#Conduct offensive and defensive operations associated with the maritime domain including achieving and maintaining [[sea control]], to include [[Underwater warfare|subsurface]], [[surface warfare|surface]], [[land warfare|land]], [[aerial warfare|air]], [[space warfare|space]], and [[cyberwarfare|cyberspace]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Provide [[power projection]] through sea-based global strike, to include [[nuclear warfare|nuclear]] and [[conventional warfare|conventional]] capabilities; [[interdiction]] and interception capabilities; maritime and littoral fires, to include [[Naval gunfire support|naval surface fires]]; and [[close air support]] for ground forces.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Conduct [[missile defense|ballistic missile defense]]. This is executed through the Navy's [[Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Conduct ocean, hydro, and river survey and reconstruction.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Conduct [[riverine warfare|riverine operations]]. This is conducted by the [[Maritime Expeditionary Security Force]] and [[Naval Special Warfare Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Establish, maintain, and defend sea bases in support of naval, amphibious, land, air, or other joint operations as directed.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Provide [[military logistics|naval expeditionary logistics]] to enhance the deployment, sustainment, and redeployment of naval forces and other forces operating within the maritime domain, to include joint sea bases, and provide [[maritime transport|sea transport]] for the Armed Forces other than which is organic to the individual military services, [[United States Special Operations Command]], and [[United States Cyber Command]]. This is conducted by the [[Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group (United States)|Navy Expeditionary Logistics Support Group]] and [[Military Sealift Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Provide support for joint [[space warfare|space operations]] to enhance naval operations, in coordination with the other military services (primarily the [[United States Space Force]]), combatant commands (primarily [[United States Space Command]]), and other U.S. government departments and agencies. U.S. Navy space operations are conducted by [[Navy Space Command]].<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Conduct [[nuclear warfare|nuclear operations]] in support of strategic deterrence, to include providing and maintaining nuclear surety and capabilities.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />

====Naval Surface Forces====
{{main|Naval Surface Forces}}
[[File:USS Zumwalt is on the final leg of its three-month journey to its new homeport in San Diego. (31620613005).jpg|thumb|The stealth destroyer {{USS|Zumwalt|DDG-1000}} alongside the {{USS|Independence|LCS-2}}]]

The Naval Surface Forces (NAVSURFOR) is the backbone of the U.S. Navy's combat power, conducting [[surface warfare]] operations and operating its fleet of combat surface ships.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usna.edu/SurfaceWarfare/index.php|title=Surface Warfare|website=www.usna.edu}}</ref>

The Naval Surface Forces operates eleven nuclear-powered [[aircraft carriers]] (CVN), split between the [[Nimitz-class aircraft carrier|''Nimitz''-class]] and the newer [[Gerald R. Ford-class aircraft carrier|''Gerald R. Ford''-class]]. Aircraft carriers are the centerpiece of the U.S. Navy's combat power, forming the nucleus of its eleven [[carrier strike group]]s (CSG). Each aircraft carrier has an embarked [[carrier air wing]] from the Naval Air Forces.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/article/2169795/aircraft-carriers-cvn/https://www.navy.mil/Resources/Fact-Files/Display-FactFiles/Article/2169795/aircraft-carriers-cvn/|title=Aircraft Carriers – CVN|website=www.navy.mil}}{{dead link|date=April 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref>

The Naval Surface Forces also operate 116 [[surface combatant]]s. These include the [[Ticonderoga-class cruiser|''Ticonderoga''-class]] [[guided-missile cruiser]]s, [[Arleigh Burke-class destroyer|''Arleigh Burke-class'']] [[guided-missile destroyer]]s (DDG) and [[Zumwalt-class destroyer|''Zumwalt-class'']] [[stealth ship|stealth]] [[guided-missile destroyer]]s. Cruisers and destroyers often operate as part of larger formations, where they serve as escorts for [[Anti-aircraft warfare|anti-aircraft]] and [[Anti-submarine warfare|anti-submarine]] operations. However, they also are able to conduct [[sea control]] and striker operations ashore with their [[Tomahawk (missile family)|tomahawk]] cruise missiles. The Navy also operates a complement of smaller [[Freedom-class littoral combat ship|''Freedom''-class]] and [[Independence-class littoral combat ship|''Independence''-class]] [[littoral combat ship]]s (LCS) that can be modularly reconfigured for specific mission sets.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nvr.navy.mil/NVRSHIPS/SHIPBATTLEFORCE.HTML|title=Ship Battle Forces|website=nvr.navy.mil}}{{dead link|date=April 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.navy.com/life-in-the-navy/vessels|title=Submarines, Carriers, Cruisers & Other Vessels &#124; Navy.com|website=www.navy.com}}</ref> Having lacked a [[frigate]] since the [[Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate|''Oliver Hazard Perry''-class]] was decommissioned, the Navy is in the process of acquiring the new [[Constellation-class frigate|''Constellation''-class]] [[guided-missile frigate]]s (FFG).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://news.usni.org/2022/12/27/report-to-congress-on-constellation-class-frigate-program-ffg-62-12|title=Report to Congress on Constellation-class Frigate Program (FFG-62)|date=27 December 2022}}</ref>

Finally, the Naval Surface Forces operate 31 [[amphibious warfare ship]]s to support the [[Fleet Marine Force]] and its embarked [[Marine Air-Ground Task Force]]s as part of an [[amphibious ready group]] or [[expeditionary strike group]]. This includes the [[America-class amphibious assault ship|''America-class'']] [[landing helicopter assault]] (LHA) ships which can carry U.S. Marine Corps [[F-35B Lightning II]] fighters and helicopters; and [[Wasp-class amphibious assault ship|''Wasp-class'']] [[landing helicopter dock]] (LHD) ships, which can carry both F-35B fighters, helicopters, and landing craft. These are in addition to the [[San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock|San Antonio-class]] [[amphibious transport dock]]s (LPD), and the [[Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship|Whidbey Island-class]] and [[Harpers Ferry-class dock landing ship|''Harpers Ferry''-class]] [[dock landing ship]]s.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nvr.navy.mil/NVRSHIPS/FLEETSIZE.HTML|archive-url=https://archive.today/20161211091216/http://www.nvr.navy.mil/NVRSHIPS/FLEETSIZE.HTML|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 December 2016|title=Fleet Size|website=nvr.navy.mil}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.defense.gov/Multimedia/Experience/Military-Units/Navy/|title=Military Units: Navy|website=U.S. Department of Defense}}</ref>

====Naval Submarine Forces====
{{main|Naval Submarine Forces}}
[[File:A port bow view of the US Navy (USN) LOS ANGELES CLASS- Attack Submarine USS ALBUQUERQUE (SSN 706), underway in the Atlantic Ocean, while participating in Exercise MAJESTIC EAGLE 20 - DPLA - cd72cc6879754214027b11472a72fa7d.jpeg|thumb|The {{USS|Albuquerque|SSN-706}} attack submarine underway in the Atlantic Ocean]]

The Naval Submarine Forces (NAVSUBFOR) is often referred to as the "silent service", consisting of 68 commissioned submarines.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.wearethemighty.com/intel/video-shows-us-navy-worlds-best-submarine-force/|title=This video shows the awesomeness of the US Navy's submarine force|date=31 March 2018}}</ref>

[[Los Angeles-class submarine|''Los Angeles''-class]], [[Seawolf-class submarine|''Seawolf''-class]], and [[Virginia-class submarine|''Virginia''-class]] nuclear-powered [[attack submarine]]s are capable of performing [[sea control]] missions by destroying enemy submarines and surface ships, conducting surveillance and reconnaissance, performing irregular warfare, covert troop insertion, mine and anti-mine operations, and land attack missions with [[Tomahawk (missile family)|tomahawk]] cruise missiles.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usna.edu/SubmarineForce/subs.php|title=Submarines|website=www.usna.edu}}</ref>

[[Ohio-class submarine|''Ohio''-class]] nuclear-powered [[ballistic missile submarine]]s (SSBN) have the sole mission of being launch platforms for the nuclear [[submarine-launched ballistic missile]] (SLBM). Each carries 20 [[UGM-133 Trident II]] SLBMs. The Navy is currently in the process of procuring the [[Columbia-class submarine|''Columbia''-class]] SSBNs to replace the ''Ohio''-class.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.csp.navy.mil/SUBPAC-Commands/Submarines/Ballistic-Missile-Submarines/|title=Ballistic Missile Submarines|website=www.csp.navy.mil}}</ref> Some ''Ohio''-class submarines have been converted to [[cruise-missile submarine]]s (SSGN), capable of carrying 154 [[Tomahawk (missile family)|tomahawk]] cruise missiles and deploying 66 special operations forces personnel, such as [[Navy SEALs]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.csp.navy.mil/SUBPAC-Commands/Submarines/Guided-Missile-Submarines/|title=Guided Missile Submarines|website=www.csp.navy.mil}}</ref>

====Naval Air Forces====
{{main|Naval Air Forces}}
[[File:F-A-18F Super Hornet flies over the USS Gerald R. Ford.jpg|thumb|An [[F/A-18F Super Hornet]] from [[VX-23]] flies over the {{USS|Gerald R. Ford|CVN-78}}, the world's largest aircraft carrier, and the largest warship ever constructed]]

The Naval Air Forces (NAVAIRFOR) is the Navy's [[naval aviation]] arm, centered around the [[carrier air wing]]. The core of the carrier air wing are the Naval Air Forces strike fighter squadrons (VFA), which fly the [[F-35C Lightning II]] stealth fighter and the [[F/A-18E/F Super Hornet]]. A variant of the F/A-18, the [[EA-18G Growler]] is an [[electronic-warfare aircraft]] flown by electronic attack squadrons (VAQ) off of carriers or land bases. The [[E-2 Hawkeye]] provides carriers with airborne early warning and command-and-control, while the [[C-2A Greyhound]] keeps carriers supplied. The [[CMV-22B Osprey]] is currently in the process of replacing the C-2 Greyhound for carrier resupply.<ref name="auto8">{{Cite web|url=https://www.usna.edu/NavalAviation/index.php|title=Aviation Warfare|website=www.usna.edu}}</ref>

The Naval Air Forces also operate the [[MH-60 Seahawk]] for [[anti-submarine warfare]], [[anti-ship warfare]], and search and rescue operations. The [[MH-53E]] is primarily used for anti-mine warfare but can also be used for assault support.<ref name="auto8"/>

Although primarily centered on carriers, the Naval Air Forces do operate a small number of land-based aircraft. These include the [[P-3C Orion]] and [[P-8A Poseidon]], which conduct [[anti-submarine warfare]] operations and serve as maritime patrol aircraft, alongside the unmanned [[MQ-4C Triton]]. The [[E-6 Mercury]] is also flown by the Navy to communicate instructions to U.S. strategic forces.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.airpac.navy.mil/Organization/Strategic-Communications-Wing-1/|title=Strategic Communications Wing 1|website=www.airpac.navy.mil}}</ref><ref name="auto8"/>

====Navy commands====
The U.S. Navy is organized into eight navy component commands, which command operational forces and serve as joint force maritime component commands; fifteen shore commands, which support the fleets' operating forces; five systems commands, which oversee the technical requirements of the Navy; and nine type commands, which administratively manage units of a certain type.

{|class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=2|Name
!Mission
!Headquarters
|-
|[[File:Seal of the Chief of Naval Operations.svg|75px]]
|[[Office of the Chief of Naval Operations]] (OPNAV) 
| Navy service headquarters led by the [[chief of naval operations]]. 
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia
|-
!colspan=5| Navy operating forces
|-
|[[File:Seal of the Commander of the United States Fleet Forces Command.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Fleet Forces Command|U.S. Fleet Forces Command]] (USFF) / U.S. Naval Forces Northern Command (NAVFORNORTH)
|Trains, certifies, and provides Navy forces for naval, joint, and combined operations. Navy service component and joint force maritime component command to [[United States Northern Command]] and [[United States Strategic Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.usff.navy.mil/About-Us/Mission/|title=Mission|website=www.usff.navy.mil|access-date=26 February 2023|archive-date=26 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226000259/https://www.usff.navy.mil/About-Us/Mission/|url-status=dead}}</ref>
|[[Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads]], Virginia
|-
|[[File:Seal of the Commander of the United States Pacific Fleet.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Pacific Fleet|U.S. Pacific Fleet]] (PACFLT)
|Navy service component and joint force maritime component command to [[United States Indo-Pacific Command]].
|[[Naval Station Pearl Harbor]], Hawaii
|-
|[[File:United States Naval Forces Central Command patch 2014.png|75px]]
|[[United States Naval Forces Central Command|U.S. Naval Forces Central Command]] (NAVCENT)
|Navy service component and joint force maritime component command to [[United States Central Command]].
|[[Naval Support Activity Bahrain]]
|-
|[[File:Seal of the United States Fleet Cyber Command.png|75px]] [[File:Emblem of the U.S. Navy Space Command.png|75px]]
|[[U.S. Fleet Cyber Command]] (FCC) / [[Navy Space Command|U.S. Navy Space Command]] (NAVSPACE)
|Navy service component to [[United States Cyber Command]] and [[United States Space Command]]
|[[Fort Meade]], Maryland
|-
|[[File:US Naval Forces Europe-Africa.png|75px]]
|[[United States Naval Forces Europe-Africa|U.S. Naval Forces Europe and Africa]] (NAVEUR-NAVAF)
|Navy service component and joint force maritime component command to [[United States European Command]] and [[United States Africa Command]].
|[[Naval Support Activity Naples]], Italy
|-
|[[File:Navso crest2 Ver 2.gif|75px]]
|[[United States Naval Forces Southern Command|U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command]] (NAVSO)
|Navy service component and joint force maritime component command to [[United States Southern Command]].
|[[Naval Station Mayport]], Florida
|-
|[[File:US NSWC insignia.jpg|75px]]
|[[United States Naval Special Warfare Command|U.S. Naval Special Warfare Command]] (USNSWC)
|Navy service component to [[United States Special Operations Command]].
|[[Naval Amphibious Base Coronado]], California
|-
|[[File:MSC Seal.png|75px]]
|[[Military Sealift Command]] (MSC)
|Navy service component and joint force maritime component command to [[United States Transportation Command]].
|[[Naval Station Norfolk]], Virginia
|-
|[[File:Seal of the United States Navy Reserve.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Navy Reserve|U.S. Navy Reserve]] (USNR)
|Oversees and maintains Navy reserve forces
|[[Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads]], Virginia 
|}

===U.S. Air Force===
{{main|United States Air Force}}
[[File:Stealth-y patrol - 090421-F-0000B-301.jpg|thumb|A [[B-2A Spirit]] stealth bomber from the [[509th Bomb Wing]] escorted by two [[F-22A Raptor]] stealth fighters from the [[3rd Wing]]]]
The [[United States Air Force]] (USAF) is the United States Armed Forces' air force. Originally established in 1947 when it gained independence from the U.S. Army, it traces its history back through the [[United States Army Air Forces]], [[United States Army Air Corps]], [[United States Army Air Service]], the [[Division of Military Aeronautics]], [[Aviation Section, U.S. Signal Corps]], to the birth of [[Aeronautical Division, U.S. Signal Corps]] on 1 August 1907. The U.S. Air Force serves as the principal air service, responsible for [[aerial warfare]] operations. The U.S. Air Force is composed of the Regular Air Force, [[United States Air Force Reserve|Air Force Reserve]], and [[Air National Guard]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/|title=About Us|website=www.af.mil}}</ref>

The U.S. Air Force is organized under the [[United States Department of the Air Force|Department of the Air Force]], which is a military department under the leadership of the [[United States Secretary of the Air Force|secretary of the Air Force]] and [[United States Under Secretary of the Air Force|under secretary of the Air Force]]. The U.S. Air Force itself is led by the [[Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force|chief of staff of the Air Force]] and [[Vice Chief of Staff of the United States Air Force|vice chief of staff of the Air Force]], both [[general (United States)|general]]s who are advised by the [[chief master sergeant of the Air Force]].

The five core missions of the Air Force are:<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.airforcemag.com/DocumentFile/Documents/2015/Future_Operating_Concept.pdf |title=Air Force Future Operating Concept: A View of the Air Force in 2035 |date=September 2015 |website=airforcemag.com |access-date=28 September 2021 }}</ref>
*[[Aerial warfare|Air superiority]]
*[[intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance|Global integrated intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance]]
*[[airlift|Rapid global mobility]]
*[[Strategic bombing|Global strike]]
*[[Command and control]]

[[File:C17 DF-SD-06-03299.jpg|thumb|Air Mobility Command [[C-17 Globemaster]]s performing low-level flight training]]
The eight specified functions of the Air Force are:<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.doctrine.af.mil/Portals/61/documents/Airman_Development/PurpleBook.pdf|title=The Joint Team|website=doctrine.af.mil}}{{Dead link|date=May 2025 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
# Conduct [[nuclear warfare|nuclear operations]] in support of strategic deterrence, to include providing and maintaining nuclear surety and capabilities.
# Conduct offensive and defensive operations, to include appropriate [[air defense|air]] and [[missile defense]], to gain and maintain [[air superiority]] and [[air supremacy]] as required, to enable the conduct of operations by U.S. and allied land, sea, air, space, and special operations forces.
#Conduct global precision attack, to include [[strategic bombing|strategic attack]], [[air interdiction|interdiction]], [[close air support]], and prompt global strike.
# Provide timely, globally integrated [[intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance]] capability and capacity from forward deployed locations and globally distributed centers to support world-wide operations.
# Provide rapid global mobility to employ and sustain organic air and space forces and other military service and U. S. Special Operations Command forces, as directed, to include [[military transport aircraft|airlift forces]] for [[airborne forces|airborne operations]], air logistical support, [[Aerial refueling|tanker forces]] for in-flight refueling, and assets for [[aeromedical evacuation]].  
#  Provide agile combat support to enhance the air and space campaign and the deployment, employment, sustainment, and redeployment of air and space forces and other forces operating within the air and space domains, to include joint air and space bases, and for the Armed Forces other than which is organic to the individual military services and U.S. Special Operations Command in coordination with the other military services, combatant commands, and U.S. Government departments and agencies.
#  Conduct global personnel recovery operations including theater-wide combat and civil search and rescue in coordination with the other military services, combatant commands, and DoD components.
#  Conduct globally integrated command and control for air and space operations.

====Combat Air Force====
{{main|Air Combat Command|Air Force Global Strike Command|Air Force Special Operations Command}}
[[File:90th Fighter Squadron - F-22s.jpg|thumb|Two [[F-22A Raptor]]s from the [[90th Fighter Squadron]]]]
The Combat Air Force (CAF) comprises the majority of the Air Force's combat power, consisting of its [[Fighter aircraft|fighter]], [[bomber]], [[intercontinental ballistic missile]], and [[special operations]] forces.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/PDF/DocumentFile/Documents/2010/CAF_StratPlan2010_091610.pdf|title=Securing the High Ground|website=airandspaceforces.com}}</ref>

The Air Force's fighter forces are led by [[Air Combat Command]]'s [[Fifteenth Air Force]], with other fighter units under [[Pacific Air Forces]] and [[United States Air Forces in Europe]]. Air Force fighters are predominantly used to achieve air superiority and strike enemy ground and naval forces. The Air Force operates an expanding force of [[fifth-generation fighters]]. The [[F-22A Raptor]] stealth fighter is designed to replace the F-15C in [[air superiority]] operations carrying two [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]] and six [[AIM-120 AMRAAM]] missiles. It also has a significant air-to-ground mission, carrying two [[Joint Direct Attack Munition|GBU-32 Joint Direct Attack Munition]] bombs, in addition to two AIM-9 and two AIM-120 missiles.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104506/f-22-raptor/ | title=F-22 Raptor | work=Air Force }}</ref> Ultimately, the F-22 is intended to be replaced by the [[sixth-generation fighter]], [[Next Generation Air Dominance]] program.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://breakingdefense.com/2022/08/if-congress-blocks-f-22-retirements-expect-impact-to-air-force-drone-programs-hunter/#:~:text=The%20Air%20Force%20plans%20to,replace%20the%20F%2D22%20Raptor | title=If Congress blocks F-22 retirements, expect impact to Air Force drone programs: Hunter | date=16 August 2022 }}</ref> The F-22 is complemented by the more numerous [[F-35A Lightning II]] multi-role stealth fighters, which are in the process of replacing the F-16C fighters and A-10 attack aircraft in air superiority and ground attack roles, to include the [[nuclear warfare|nuclear strike mission]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/478441/f-35a-lightning-ii/ | title=F-35A Lightning II | work=Air Force }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/f-35-completes-final-test-for-nuclear-capable-b61-series-weapons/ | title=F-35 Completes Final Test for Nuclear-Capable B61 Series Weapons | date=5 October 2021 }}</ref>

The Air Force still operates an extremely sizable force of [[fourth-generation fighter]]s. The [[F-15C Eagle]] is a dedicated air superiority fighter, while the [[F-15E Strike Eagle]] has been modified to be a dual-role [[strike fighter]], carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104501/f-15-eagle/ | title=F-15 Eagle | work=Air Force }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104499/f-15e-strike-eagle/ | title=F-15E Strike Eagle | work=Air Force }}</ref> The F-15C Eagle and F-15E Strike Eagle are both being replaced by the [[F-15EX Eagle II]], which is significantly more advanced.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/f-15ex-could-replace-strike-eagle-fleet-in-addition-to-older-c-d-models-usaf-says/ | title=F-15EX Could Replace Strike Eagle Fleet, in Addition to Older C/D Models, USAF Says | date=30 July 2020 }}</ref> The [[F-16C Fighting Falcon]] is a multirole fighter that has served as the primary Air Force fighter for decades, including as a dual-capable tactical nuclear strike fighter.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104505/f-16-fighting-falcon/ | title=F-16 Fighting Falcon | work=Air Force }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/article/the-one-way-nuclear-mission/ | title=The One-Way Nuclear Mission }}</ref> The [[A-10C Thunderbolt II]] [[attack aircraft]] has been the first Air Force fighter specifically designed for [[close air support]] missions, operating against enemy ground forces and light naval ships with its [[GAU-8 Avenger]] gatling cannon and array of air-to-ground munitions.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104490/a-10c-thunderbolt-ii/ | title=A-10C Thunderbolt II | work=Air Force }}</ref>

[[File:B-52 and B-2.jpg|thumb|A [[B-52 Stratofortress]] of the [[2nd Bomb Wing]] and a [[B-2A Spirit]] of the [[509th Bomb Wing]] flying in formation]]
The Air Force's bomber forces are organized under [[Air Force Global Strike Command]]'s [[Eighth Air Force]], executing long-range strike operations. The [[B-2A Spirit]] stealth bomber is capable of conducting both conventional and nuclear strike operations flying through air defenses.<ref name="auto12">{{cite web | url=https://www.afgsc.af.mil/About/Fact-Sheets/Article/630717/b-2-spirit/ | title=B-2 Spirit | work=Air Force Global Strike Command AFSTRAT-AIR }}</ref> The [[B-1B Lancer]], in contrast, is a supersonic bomber that carries only conventional munitions and serves as the backbone of the bomber force.<ref name="auto12"/> Both the B-2A Spirit and the B-1B Lancer are being replaced by the [[B-21 Raider]] stealth bomber, which can be equipped with both conventional and nuclear munitions.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2682973/b-21-raider/ | title=B-21 Raider | work=Air Force }}</ref> The [[B-52H Stratofortress]] is a long-range, [[heavy bomber]] that the Air Force has flown since the 1950s and operates a variety of conventional and nuclear munitions, including the [[AGM-86 ALCM|AGM-86 air-launched cruise missile]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104465/b-52h-stratofortress/ | title=B-52H Stratofortress | work=Air Force }}</ref>

The Air Force's intercontinental ballistic missile forces are organized under Air Force Global Strike Command's [[Twentieth Air Force]], serving as the land component of the [[nuclear triad]]. The [[LGM-30G Minuteman III]] serves as the only ballistic missile operated by the Air Force, with 400 stationed in hardened silos.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104466/lgm-30g-minuteman-iii/ | title=LGM-30G Minuteman III | work=Air Force }}</ref> The LGM-30G will be replaced by the [[LGM-35A Sentinel]] intercontinental ballistic missile.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://breakingdefense.com/2023/02/sentinel-icbm-on-track-for-flight-test-this-year-senior-usaf-official/ | title=Sentinel ICBM 'on track' for flight test this year: Senior USAF official | date=16 February 2023 }}</ref>

[[File:CV-22 Ospreys over Tokyo.jpg|thumb|A formation of [[CV-22 Osprey]]s from the [[353rd Special Operations Group]]]]

The Air Force's special operations forces are organized under [[Air Force Special Operations Command]], consisting of both special operations aviation and Air Force special tactics airmen on the ground. The [[AC-130J Ghostrider]] [[gunship]]s have the primary mission of [[close air support]] and [[air interdiction]], using cannons and precision guided munitions.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/467756/ac-130j-ghostrider/ | title=AC-130J Ghostrider | work=Air Force }}</ref> The [[MC-130J Commando II]], also a variant of the C-130 Hercules, fly exfiltration and resupply operations for special operations forces, along with conducting air-to-air refueling for helicopters.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104510/mc-130j-commando-ii/ | title=MC-130J Commando II | work=Air Force }}</ref> The [[CV-22 Osprey]] is a tiltrotor aircraft used for the infiltration and exfiltration of special operations forces.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104531/cv-22-osprey/ | title=CV-22 Osprey | work=Air Force }}</ref> While not under Air Force Special Operations Command, rescue operations are supported by the [[HC-130J Combat King II]] and [[HH-60W Jolly Green II]] combat rescue aircraft.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.defensenews.com/air/2022/08/12/combat-rescue-helicopter-cuts-trigger-cost-overrun-air-force-says/ | title=Combat rescue helicopter cuts trigger cost overrun, Air Force says | date=12 August 2022 }}</ref> The [[MQ-9 Reaper]] also serves as a remotely piloted intelligence and strike aircraft, serving under Air Force Special Operations Command and Air Combat Command.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104470/mq-9-reaper/ | title=MQ-9 Reaper | work=Air Force }}</ref>[[File:USAF HH-60 evac scenario.jpg|thumb|Air Force [[Pararescue]] with a [[HH-60]] helicopter in the background]]

Air Force Special Tactics are the ground special warfare force of the U.S. Air Force, integrating air-ground operations. Special Tactics conduct four core missions. Global access teams assess and open airfields, ranging from international airports to dirt strips, in permissive or hostile locations to facilitate the landing and operation of air forces. Precision strike teams are trained to direct aircraft and other forces to conduct kinetic and non-kinetic strikes, as well as humanitarian aid drops. Special Tactics teams also conduct personnel recovery missions, possessing significant medical and rescue experience. Finally, Special Operations Surgical Teams conduct surgery and medical operations in battlefield operations in support of special operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.airforcespecialtactics.af.mil/About/Mission/ | title=Mission }}</ref>

The Air Force also operates a wide array of [[reconnaissance aircraft]] under Air Combat Command's [[Sixteenth Air Force]], including the [[RQ-4 Global Hawk]] drone, [[U-2 Dragon Lady]], and [[RC-135 Rivet Joint]]. Air Force operations are typically supported by command and control aircraft, such as the [[E-3 Sentry]] [[airborne warning and control system]]. The E-3 Sentry is in the process of being replaced by the [[E-7A Wedgetail]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104504/e-3-sentry-awacs/ | title=E-3 Sentry (AWACS) | work=Air Force }}</ref>

====Mobility Air Force====
{{main|Air Mobility Command}}

[[File:Boeing Flight Test & Evaluation (28081863073).jpg|thumb|A [[KC-46A Pegasus]] refueling a [[C-17A Globemaster III]]]]

The Mobility Air Force (MAF) is organized under Air Mobility Command and comprises the Air Force's [[Military transport aircraft|airlift]], [[Aerial refueling|air refueling]], and [[aeromedical evacuation]] forces.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.amc.af.mil/About-Us/ | title=Gen. Minihan Keynote Intro for A/TA 2021 }}</ref>

The airlift forces operate three different major aircraft. The [[C-5M Super Galaxy]] is the largest aircraft in the Air Force, serving as a strategic transport aircraft.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104492/c-5m-super-galaxy/ | title=C-5M Super Galaxy | work=Air Force }}</ref> The [[C-17A Globemaster III]] is the airlift force's most flexible aircraft, conducting both strategic and tactical airlift operations. It is also capable of conducting airborne operations for the Army and aerial resupply through airdropping cargo.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1529726/c-17-globemaster-iii/ | title=C-17 Globemaster III | work=Air Force }}</ref> Finally, the [[C-130J Super Hercules]] is a tactical airlifter, conducting both cargo airlift and supporting Army airborne operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1555054/c-130-hercules/ | title=C-130 Hercules | work=Air Force }}</ref> Other major airlift platforms include the [[VC-25]], which serves as the personal plane of the [[president of the United States]], better known as [[Air Force One]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104588/vc-25-air-force-one/ | title=VC-25 – Air Force One | work=Air Force }}</ref>

The Air Force also operates three major aerial refueling tankers. The [[KC-46A Pegasus]] is its most modern tanker, replacing the aging [[KC-10A Extender]]s.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/104537/kc-46a-pegasus/ | title=KC-46A Pegasus | work=Air Force }}</ref> The remaining tanker is the [[KC-135 Stratotanker]], which has flown since the 1950s.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1529736/kc-135-stratotanker/ | title=KC-135 Stratotanker }}</ref> Tankers are also capable of conducting limited airlift operations.

====Air Force commands====
The U.S. Air Force is organized into nine major commands, which conduct the majority of the service's organize, train, and equip functions. It commands forces attached to the combatant commands as joint force air component commands.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.airforcemag.com/PDF/MagazineArchive/Magazine%20Documents%2F2013%2FMay%202013%2F0513MC_RC.pdf |title=Major Commands and Reserve Components |website=airforcemag.com |date=30 September 2012 |access-date=28 September 2021 }}</ref>
{|class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=2|Name
!Mission
!Headquarters
|-
|[[File:Headquarters US Air Force Badge.png|75px]]
|[[Headquarters Air Force]] (HAF) 
| Air Force service headquarters led by the [[chief of staff of the United States Air Force|chief of staff of the Air Force]]. 
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia
|-
!colspan=4| Major Commands and Air National Guard
|-
|[[File:ACC Shield.svg|75px]]
|[[Air Combat Command]] (ACC)
| Primary provider of combat air forces to the unified combatant commands. Air Combat Command operates fighter, reconnaissance, battle-management, and electronic-combat aircraft.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.acc.af.mil/About-Us/|title=About Us|website=www.acc.af.mil}}</ref>
|[[Joint Base Langley-Eustis]], Virginia
|-
|[[File:Air Education and Training Command.svg|75px]]
|[[Air Education and Training Command]] (AETC)
|Recruits, trains, and educates airmen and develops Air Force doctrine.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.aetc.af.mil/About-Us/|title=Air Education and Training Command > About Us|website=www.aetc.af.mil}}</ref>
|[[Joint Base San Antonio]], Texas
|-
|[[File:Air Force Global Strike Command.svg|75px]] 
|[[Air Force Global Strike Command]] (AFGSC)
| Operates the Air Force strategic bomber and intercontinental ballistic missile forces. Air Force component and joint force air component command for [[United States Strategic Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.afgsc.af.mil/About/|title=About|website=www.afgsc.af.mil}}</ref>
|[[Barksdale Air Force Base]], Louisiana 
|-
|[[File:Air Force Materiel Command shield.svg|75px]]
|[[Air Force Materiel Command]] (AFMC)
|Manages installation and mission support, discovery and development, test and evaluation, and life cycle management services and sustainment for every major Air Force weapon system.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.afmc.af.mil/About-Us/|title=About Us|website=www.afmc.af.mil}}</ref>
|[[Wright-Patterson Air Force Base]], Ohio
|-
|[[File:Air Force Reserve Command.svg|75px]]
|[[Air Force Reserve Command]] (AFRC)
|Manages Air Force reserve forces.
|[[Robins Air Force Base]], Georgia
|-
|[[File:Shield of the United States Air Force Special Operations Command.svg|75px]]
|[[Air Force Special Operations Command]] (AFSOC)
| Organizes, trains, and equips air commandos. Air Force component and joint force air component command for [[United States Special Operations Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.afsoc.af.mil/About-Us/|title=About Us|website=www.afsoc.af.mil}}</ref>
| [[Hurlburt Field]], Florida
|-
|[[File:Air Mobility Command.svg|75px]]
|[[Air Mobility Command]] (AMC)
| Primary provider of air mobility forces to the unified combatant commands. Air Force component and joint force air component command for [[United States Transportation Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.amc.af.mil/About-Us/|title=Gen. Minihan Keynote Intro for A/TA 2021|website=www.amc.af.mil}}</ref>
| [[Scott Air Force Base]], Illinois
|-
|[[File:Pacific Air Forces.svg|75px]]
|[[Pacific Air Forces]] (PACAF)
|Air Force component and joint force air component command for [[United States Indo-Pacific Command]].
|[[Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam]], Hawaii
|-
|[[File:United States Air Forces in Europe.svg|75px]] [[File:United States Air Forces in Africa.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Air Forces in Europe - Air Forces Africa]] (USAFE-AFAFRICA)
|Air Force component and joint force air component command for [[United States European Command]] and [[United States Africa Command]].
|[[Ramstein Air Base]], Germany
|-
|[[file:US-AirNationalGuard-2007Emblem.svg|75px]]
|[[Air National Guard]] (ANG)
|Air Force component of the [[National Guard (United States)|National Guard]].
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia 
|-
|}

===U.S. Space Force===
{{main|United States Space Force}}
[[File:X-37B concludes sixth mission (221111-F-XX000-0002).jpg|thumb|[[Boeing X-37|Boeing X-37B]] spaceplane after deorbiting and landing]]

The [[United States Space Force]] (USSF) is the United States Armed Forces' space force and is the newest military branch. Originally established in 2019, it traces its history through Air Force Space Command and the Western Development Division to 1954. The United States Space Force is the principal space service, responsible for [[space warfare]] operations.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spaceforce.com/history|title=Our History – U.S. Space Force|website=www.spaceforce.com}}</ref> The U.S. Space Force is composed of the Regular Space Force, not yet having organized a reserve component outside of the Air Force.

The U.S. Space Force is organized under the [[United States Department of the Air Force|Department of the Air Force]], which is a military department under the leadership of the [[United States Secretary of the Air Force|secretary of the Air Force]] and [[United States Under Secretary of the Air Force|under secretary of the Air Force]]. The U.S. Space Force itself is led by the [[chief of space operations]] and [[vice chief of space operations]], both [[general (United States)|general]]s who are advised by the [[chief master sergeant of the Space Force]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Leadership/|title=Leadership|website=www.spaceforce.mil}}</ref>

[[File:45th Space Wing Supports Successful Delta IV Heavy NROL-44 Launch (6453152).jpeg|thumb|[[Delta IV Heavy]] launch for the [[NROL-44]] mission]]
The five core competencies of the Space Force are:<ref name="Spacepower">{{cite web|url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2306828/space-force-releases-1st-doctrine-defines-spacepower-as-distinct-form-of-milita|title=Space Force releases 1st doctrine, defines "spacepower" as distinct form of military power|website=United States Space Force|date=10 August 2020 }}</ref>
*[[International security|Space security]]
*[[Space warfare|Combat]] [[power projection]]
*[[Military logistics|Space mobility and logistics]]
*[[Information warfare|Information mobility]]
*[[Space domain awareness]]
The five specified functions of the Space Force are:
#Provide freedom of operation for the United States in, from, and to space.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Provide prompt and sustained space operations.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Protect the interests of the United States in space.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Deter aggression in, from, and to space.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />
#Conduct space operations.<ref name="DoDI 5100.01" />

====Orbital warfare and space electromagnetic warfare====
{{main|Space Delta 3|Space Delta 9}}
The Space Force's combat power is centered around Space Delta 3, which conducts [[electronic warfare|space electromagnetic warfare]] and Space Delta 9, which conducts [[space warfare|orbital warfare]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.ssc.spaceforce.mil/Program-Executive-Offices/Space-Domain-Awareness-Combat-Power | title=Space Domain Awareness & Combat Power }}</ref>

Combat power projection operations ensure freedom of action in space for the U.S. and its allies and denies an adversary freedom of action in space. These are divided into offensive and defensive space operations. Defensive operations preserve and protect U.S. and allied space capabilities, which are further sub-divided into active and passive actions. Offensive operations target a U.S. adversary's space and counterspace capabilities, achieving space superiority.<ref name="Spacepower"/>

Orbital warfare forces conduct protect-and-defend operations and provide U.S. national decision authorities with response options to deter and, when necessary, defeat orbital threats. The space electromagnetic warfare forces conduct offensive and defensive space control operations. Space Force cyber forces conduct defensive cyber operations to protect space assets.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.schriever.spaceforce.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2510837/space-delta-9-builds-orbital-warfare-tradecraft-from-the-ground-up/https://www.schriever.spaceforce.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2510837/space-delta-9-builds-orbital-warfare-tradecraft-from-the-ground-up/|title=Space Delta 9 builds orbital warfare tradecraft from the ground up|website=Schriever Space Force Base (Archived)}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spacecom.mil/Newsroom/News/Article-Display/Article/2506638/space-delta-3-focuses-on-electromagnetic-spectrum/http://www.spacecom.mil/Newsroom/News/Article-Display/Article/2506638/space-delta-3-focuses-on-electromagnetic-spectrum/|title=Space Delta 3 focuses on electromagnetic spectrum|website=United States Space Command}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>

====Cyber operations and Satellite Control Network====
{{main|Space Delta 6}}
[[File:The Watchers on Oahu (7526583).jpeg|thumb|[[Satellite Control Network]] antenna at [[Kaena Point Space Force Station]]]]
Although the U.S. Space Force is not a [[cyber force]], it does conduct extensive [[cyberwarfare|cyber operations]] under Space Delta 6. The primary focus of Space Force cyber operations is defending U.S. Space Force networks and ensuring the operations of its spacecraft, which are controlled remotely from ground stations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/articles/2022/11/10/entering-year-four-space-force-focusing-on-cyber-capabilities | title=Entering Year Four, Space Force Focusing on Cyber Capabilities }}</ref> All space operations units have cyber squadrons assigned to defend them and incorporate offensive cyber operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://spacenews.com/space-force-coming-to-grips-with-cybersecurity-threats/ | title=Space Force coming to grips with cybersecurity threats | date=7 July 2022 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/3190976/ | title=Space Force embeds Cyber Squadrons into delta missions | date=11 October 2022 }}</ref><ref name="auto17">{{cite web | url=https://www.airandspaceforces.com/space-forces-plan-for-cyber-focused-airmen/ | title=Space Force's Plan for Cyber Warriors | date=29 May 2020 }}</ref>

Additionally, Space Delta 6 is responsible for managing the [[Satellite Control Network]], a global network of antennas used to communicate with the service's spacecraft. The [[22nd Space Operations Squadron]] is responsible for overall operations, with the [[21st Space Operations Squadron]] and [[23rd Space Operations Squadron]] managing the ground station sites at [[Vandenberg Space Force Base]], [[New Boston Space Force Station]], [[Kaena Point Space Force Station]], Diego Garcia, Guam, Greenland, and the United Kingdom.<ref name="auto17"/>

====Space domain awareness====
{{main|Space Delta 2}}
[[File:15th SPSS- The neighborhood watch of space (7542481).jpeg|thumb|[[15th Space Surveillance Squadron]] [[Ground-based Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance|GEODSS]] telescope at [[White Sands Missile Range]]]]
The Space Force's Space Delta 2 operates the [[United States Space Surveillance Network]], tracking 47,000 objects in space as of 2022.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.defense.gov/News/News-Stories/Article/Article/3196701/us-space-command-to-transfer-space-object-tracking-to-department-of-commerce/#:~:text=Right%20now%2C%20U.S.%20Space%20Command,there%2C%20the%20Spacecom%20commander%20said | title=U.S. Space Command to Transfer Space Object Tracking to Department of Commerce }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Space Delta 2 monitors deep space |url=https://www.nellis.af.mil/News/Article/2564700/space-delta-2-monitors-deep-space/ |website=Nellis Air Force Base|date=7 April 2021 }}</ref> Space domain awareness encompasses the identification, characterization, and understanding of any factor associated with the space domain that could affect space operations.<ref name="Spacepower"/>

Space Delta 2 sensors include the [[AN/FPS-85]] phased array radar at [[Eglin Air Force Base]] and the [[Space Fence]] radar at Kwajalein Atoll operated by the [[20th Space Surveillance Squadron]]; and a global network of three [[Ground-based Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance]] telescopes operated by the [[15th Space Surveillance Squadron]].<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.eglin.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/391473/premier-space-surveillance-squadron-located-at-eglin/ | title=Premier space surveillance squadron located at Eglin | date=12 December 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/space-fence.html | title=Space Fence | date=7 March 2023 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.afspc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/249016/ground-based-electro-optical-deep-space-surveillance/ | title=Ground-Based Electro-Optical Deep Space Surveillance | access-date=4 March 2023 | archive-date=4 March 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230304180422/https://www.afspc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/249016/ground-based-electro-optical-deep-space-surveillance/ | url-status=dead }}</ref>

The [[18th Space Defense Squadron]], collocated with the [[Combined Space Operations Center]], executes command and control of the Space Surveillance Network and manages the [[Satellite Catalog Number|Space Catalog]] of all objects in Earth orbit. The [[19th Space Defense Squadron]] focuses on objects further in [[cislunar space]], beyond [[geosynchronous orbit]], with a specific focus on supporting [[NASA]]'s [[Artemis program]] and other human spaceflight operations.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.afcea.org/signal-media/space-force-rounds-out-delta-2s-structure | title=Space Force Rounds Out Delta 2's Structure | date=4 May 2022 }}</ref>

====Missile warning====
{{main|Space Delta 4}}
[[File:STS-44 DSP deployment.jpg|thumb|Deployment of a [[Defense Support Program]] missile warning spacecraft from the [[Space Shuttle Atlantis|Space Shuttle ''Atlantis'']] on the [[STS-44]] mission]]

The Space Force's Space Delta 4 uses orbital spacecraft and ground-based radars to conduct theater and strategic missile warnings for the United States and its international partners.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spoc.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2334034/space-delta-4#:~:text=Space%20Delta%204%20(DEL%204,strategic%20and%20theater%20missile%20warning | title=Space Delta 4 | access-date=26 February 2023 | archive-date=21 March 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321034107/http://www.spoc.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2334034/space-delta-4#:~:text=Space%20Delta%204%20(DEL%204,strategic%20and%20theater%20missile%20warning | url-status=dead }}</ref> This includes the network of [[Upgraded Early Warning Radar]]s at [[Beale Air Force Base]], [[Clear Space Force Station]], [[Cape Cod Space Force Station]], [[Pituffik Space Base]], and [[RAF Fylingdales]], along with the [[AN/FPQ-16 PARCS]] radar at [[Cavalier Space Force Station]].<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.raytheonmissilesanddefense.com/news/2022/09/16/all-five-uewrs-complete-second-generation-hardware-software-upgrades|title=All five Upgraded Early Warning Radars complete second generation hardware, software upgrades|date=19 September 2022|website=raytheonmisslesanddefense.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221002201919/https://www.raytheonmissilesanddefense.com/news/2022/09/16/all-five-uewrs-complete-second-generation-hardware-software-upgrades|archive-date=2 October 2022}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.afspc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1126406/perimeter-acquisition-radar-attack-characterization-system/https://www.afspc.af.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/1126406/perimeter-acquisition-radar-attack-characterization-system/|title=Perimeter Acquisition Radar Attack Characterization System|website=Air Force Space Command (Archived)}}{{dead link|date=March 2025|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> Currently, the Space Force is working with the [[Missile Defense Agency]] to acquire the [[Long Range Discrimination Radar]] at Clear Space Force Station in Alaska. These ground-based radars also contribute to the Space Surveillance Network.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mda.mil/global/documents/pdf/lrdr.pdf|title=Long Range Discrimination Radar (LRDR), Clear Space Force Station (CSFS), Alaska|website=mda.mil}}</ref>

Space-based missile warning systems include the [[Defense Support Program]] and [[Space-Based Infrared System]] (SIBRS) spacecraft, which use infrared sensors to conduct missile defense and missile warning. SIBRS also has a battlespace awareness and technical intelligence mission.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/products/sbirs.html | title=SBIRS | date=9 August 2022 }}</ref> The Defense Support Program spacecraft are also capable of detecting nuclear detonations, in addition to space and missile launches.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/2197774/defense-support-program-satellites/ | title=Defense Support Program Satellites }}</ref>

====Global Positioning System and military satellite communications====
{{main|Space Delta 8}}
[[File:4th Space Operations Squadron (7141773).jpeg|thumb|Members of the [[4th Space Operations Squadron]] Mobile Operations Flight conducting armed convoy operations]]
The Space Force's Space Delta 8 is the operator of the [[Global Positioning System]] and the military's array of communications spacecraft.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.schriever.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Units/Space-Delta-8/|title=Space Delta 8|website=www.schriever.spaceforce.mil|access-date=26 February 2023|archive-date=26 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230226020120/https://www.schriever.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Units/Space-Delta-8/|url-status=dead}}</ref>

The Global Positioning System is operated by the [[2nd Space Operations Squadron]], providing [[positioning, navigation, and timing]] information for civilian and military users across the entire world.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Article/2197765/global-positioning-system/ | title=Global Positioning System }}</ref> The Space Force's GPS system has become an integral element of the global information infrastructure, being used in virtually all sectors of the economy, including agriculture, aviation, marine transportation, surveying and mapping, and transit navigation. Its timing signal is used to synchronize global communication systems, electrical power grids, and financial networks.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.gps.gov/applications/timing/|title=GPS.gov: Timing Applications|website=www.gps.gov}}</ref> The Global Positioning System also has a secondary mission of carrying [[Nuclear detonation detection system|nuclear detonation detection sensor]]s.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.energy.gov/nnsa/articles/nnsa-delivers-enduring-space-based-nuclear-detonation-detection-capability | title=NNSA delivers enduring space-based nuclear detonation detection capability }}</ref>

Military satellite communication systems include the [[Fleet Satellite Communications System]], [[UHF Follow-On satellite]], and [[Mobile User Objective System]], operated by the [[10th Space Operations Squadron]] and inherited from the U.S. Navy.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spacebasedelta1.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/3146952/10th-space-operations-squadron/ | title=10th Space Operations Squadron }}</ref> The payloads on the [[Wideband Global SATCOM]] and [[Defense Satellite Communications System]] are operated by the [[53rd Space Operations Squadron]], a role inherited from the U.S. Army.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spacebasedelta1.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/3146992/53rd-space-operations-squadron/ | title=53rd Space Operations Squadron }}</ref> Finally, spacecraft operations for the Wideband Global SATCOM and Defense Satellite Communications System are conducted by the [[4th Space Operations Squadron]], in addition to the [[Milstar]] and [[Advanced Extremely High Frequency]] satellites, which both additionally support command and control of strategic nuclear forces.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spacebasedelta1.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2815644/4th-space-operations-squadron/ | title=4th Space Operations Squadron }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.spoc.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2381348/advanced-extremely-high-frequency-system-aehf | title=Advanced Extremely High Frequency System (AEHF) | access-date=4 March 2023 | archive-date=4 March 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230304180427/https://www.spoc.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/2381348/advanced-extremely-high-frequency-system-aehf | url-status=dead }}</ref>

====Space launch====
{{main|Space Launch Delta 30|Space Launch Delta 45}}
[[File:SpaceX Falcon Heavy DoD STP-2 Launch (NHQ201906250100).jpg|thumb|Launch of the [[Falcon Heavy]] on the [[Space Test Program|STP-2]] mission]]
The Space Force's [[space launch]] enterprise is organized under [[Space Systems Command]], with [[Space Launch Delta 30]] managing the [[Western Range (USSF)|Western Range]] from [[Vandenberg Space Force Base]] and [[Space Launch Delta 45]] managing the [[Eastern Range]] from [[Cape Canaveral Space Force Station]].<ref name="auto16">{{cite web | url=https://www.ssc.spaceforce.mil/Program-Executive-Offices/Assured-Access-To-Space | title=Assured Access to Space }}</ref>

The Space Force does not just manage military space launches, but also supports [[NASA]] and commercial space launches.<ref name="auto16"/> Major space launch vehicles flown or scheduled to fly off of Space Force launch ranges include [[NASA]]'s [[Space Launch System]], [[SpaceX]]'s [[SpaceX Starship|Starship]], [[Falcon Heavy]], and [[Falcon 9]], and [[United Launch Alliance]]'s [[Vulcan Centaur|Vulcan]], which will replace the [[Atlas V]] and [[Delta IV Heavy]]. Currently, vehicles for the [[National Security Space Launch]] program include the Vulcan, Atlas V, Falcon Heavy, and Falcon 9 rockets.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://spacenews.com/national-security-launch-in-transition-as-space-force-waits-for-vulcan/ | title=National security launch in transition as Space Force waits for Vulcan | date=19 August 2021 }}</ref>

An experimental [[Air Force Research Laboratory]] vanguard program that the Space Force leads, [[Rocket Cargo]], is exploring using rockets to supplement naval and air transport to rapidly deliver supplies to forces across the Earth.<ref name="auto11">{{cite web | url=https://afresearchlab.com/technology/successstories/rocket-cargo-for-agile-global-logistics/ | title=ROCKET CARGO FOR AGILE GLOBAL LOGISTICS – Air Force Research Laboratory }}</ref> The [[SpaceX Starship]] rocket is one such system currently being explored.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.cnet.com/tech/tech-industry/spacex-signs-a-deal-to-rocket-military-cargo-around-the-world/ | title=SpaceX signs a deal to rocket military cargo around the world }}</ref>

====Space Force commands====
The Space Force is organized into three field commands and multiple component field commands, which serve as joint force space component commands for the unified combatant commands.<ref name="spaceforce.mil">{{cite web|url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2287005/space-force-begins-transition-into-field-organizational-structure|title=Space Force begins transition into field organizational structure|website=United States Space Force|date=24 July 2020 }}</ref>

{|class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=2|Name
!Mission
!Headquarters
|-
|[[File:Space Staff Identification Badge.png|75px]]
|[[Headquarters Space Force]] (HSF) 
| Space Force service headquarters led by the [[chief of space operations]]. 
|[[The Pentagon]], Virginia
|-
!colspan=4| Field commands
|-
|[[File:Space Operations Command emblem.png|75px]]
|[[Space Operations Command]] (SpOC)
|The Space Force's operations field command, conducting space operations, cyberspace operations, and intelligence operations. Space Force component to [[United States Space Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spoc.spaceforce.mil/About-Us/About-Space-Operations-Command|title=About Space Operations Command|website=www.spoc.spaceforce.mil}}</ref>
|[[Peterson Space Force Base]], Colorado
|-
|[[File:Space Systems Command emblem.svg|75px]]
|[[Space Systems Command]] (SSC)
|Conducts research, development, acquisitions, and sustainment of Space Force systems and conducts space launch operations.
|[[Los Angeles Air Force Base]], California
|-
|[[File:Space Training and Readiness Command emblem.png|75px]]
|[[Space Training and Readiness Command]] (STARCOM)
|Conducts Space Force training, education, doctrine development, and testing.
|[[Peterson Space Force Base]], Colorado
|-
|[[File:Space Force Element to the National Reconnaissance Office emblem.png|75px]]
|[[National Reconnaissance Office|Space Force Element, National Reconnaissance Office]] (SFELM NRO)
|Space Force component for the [[National Reconnaissance Office]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.nro.gov/Portals/65/documents/about/leadership/bios/Major_General_Christopher_S_Povak_bio.pdf?ver=Xl0BhACsBe5LE21mmLpDLA%3d%3d|title=Major General Christopher S. Povak|website=nro.gov}}</ref>
|Chantilly, Virginia
|-
|[[File:U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific emblem.png|75px]]
|[[United States Space Forces Indo-Pacific|U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific]] (USSPACEFOR-INDOPAC)
|Space Force component and joint force space component command for [[United States Indo-Pacific Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/3227481/space-force-presents-forces-to-us-indo-pacific-command/https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/3227481/space-force-presents-forces-to-us-indo-pacific-command/|title=Space Force Presents Forces to U.S. Indo-Pacific Command|website=United States Space Force}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
|[[Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam]], Hawaii
|-
|[[File:United States Space Forces Central emblem.png|75px]]
|[[United States Space Forces Central|U.S. Space Forces Central]] (USSPACEFOR-CENT)
|Space Force component and joint force space component command for [[United States Central Command]].
|[[MacDill Air Force Base]], Florida
|-
|[[File:United States Space Forces Korea emblem.png|75px]]
|[[United States Space Forces Korea|U.S. Space Forces Korea]] (USSPACEFOR-KOR)
|Space Force component and joint force space component command for [[United States Forces Korea]].
|[[Osan Air Base]], South Korea
|}

===U.S. Coast Guard===
{{main|United States Coast Guard}}
[[File:USCG cutters Hamilton and Flores -c.jpg|right|thumb| {{USCGC|Hamilton|WMSL-753}} sailing alongside the {{USCGC|William Flores|WPC-1103}}]]

The [[United States Coast Guard]] (USCG) is the United States Armed Forces' [[maritime security]], maritime [[search and rescue]], and [[maritime law enforcement]] force. It was first established in 1790 as the [[United States Revenue Cutter Service|United States Revenue-Marine]] and consists of the Regular Coast Guard and the [[United States Coast Guard Reserve|Coast Guard Reserve]].

Although it has always been one of the six military branches, the Coast Guard is organized under the [[United States Department of Homeland Security|Department of Homeland Security]] under the leadership of the [[United States Secretary of Homeland Security|secretary of Homeland Security]] and the [[United States Deputy Secretary of Homeland Security|deputy secretary of Homeland Security]]. During times of war, the U.S. Coast Guard can be transferred to the [[United States Department of the Navy|Department of the Navy]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/14/103|title=14 U.S. Code § 103 – Department in which the Coast Guard operates|website=LII / Legal Information Institute}}</ref> The Coast Guard itself is led by the [[commandant of the Coast Guard]] and [[Vice Commandant of the United States Coast Guard|vice commandant of the Coast Guard]], both [[admiral (United States)|admiral]]s advised by the [[master chief petty officer of the Coast Guard]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.uscg.mil/alwaysready/|title=United States Coast Guard – Always Ready|website=www.uscg.mil}}</ref>

[[File:U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Security Response Team USNS Sisler 2006.jpg|thumb|A Coast Guard [[Maritime Safety and Security Team|Maritime Security Response team]] executing a boarding action from an [[MH-60 Jayhawk]] helicopter]]

The Coast Guard has six major operational mission programs, through which it executes its 11 statutory missions:<ref name="auto2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.uscg.mil/About/Missions/|title=About U.S. Coast Guard Missions|website=Uscg.mil}} {{PD-notice}}</ref>
* Maritime law enforcement
* Maritime response
* Maritime prevention
* Maritime transport system management
* Maritime security operations
* Defense operations

[[Maritime law enforcement]] operations focus on protecting the United States maritime borders and assuring its maritime sovereignty. The Coast Guard conducts operations to suppress violations of U.S. law at sea, including counter-illegal migration and transnational organized crime operations. Codified missions executed under the maritime law enforcement program include drug interdiction, migrant interdiction, living marine resources, and other law enforcement.<ref name="auto2"/>

Maritime response operations see the Coast Guard conducting search-and-rescue operations and rescuing mariners responding to maritime disasters. Codified missions include search and rescue and marine environmental protection (response activities).<ref name="auto2"/>

[[File:221697.jpg|thumb|upright|Coast Guard aviation [[MH-60 Jayhawk]] helicopter with a rescue swimmer]]

Maritime prevention operations prevent marine casualties and property losses, minimize security risks, and protect the marine environment. The Coast Guard does so by developing and enforcing federal regulations, conducting safety and security inspections, and analyzing port security risk assessments. Codified missions include ports, waterways, and coastal security, marine safety, and marine environmental protection (protection activities).<ref name="auto2"/>

Maritime transport system management ensures a safe, secure, and environmentally sound waterways system. Codified missions include maintaining aids to navigation and ice operations.<ref name="auto2" />

Maritime security operations include activities to detect, deter, prevent, and disrupt terrorist attacks, and other criminal acts in the U.S. maritime domain. This includes the execution of anti-terrorism, response, and select recovery operations. This mission performs the operational element of the Coast Guard's Ports, Waterways, and Coastal Security mission and complements its Maritime Response and Prevention efforts. Codified missions include ports, waterways, and coastal security (response activities).<ref name="auto2"/>

Coast Guard Defense Operations deploy the Coast Guard globally under the Department of Defense's unified combatant commands, where it operates under the joint force maritime component commands. Codified missions include defense readiness.<ref name="auto2"/>

====Coast Guard commands====
The U.S. Coast Guard is organized into two area commands that cover the entire globe.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.uscg.mil/Units/Organization/#cyber|title=United States Coast Guard > Units > Organization|website=www.uscg.mil}}</ref>

{|class="wikitable"
|-
!colspan=2|Name
!Mission
!Headquarters
|-
|[[File:USCG - Commandant's Staff Badge.png|75px]]
|[[Commandant of the Coast Guard|Coast Guard Headquarters]] (USCG HQ) 
| Coast Guard service headquarters led by the [[commandant of the Coast Guard]]. 
|[[Douglas A. Munro Coast Guard Headquarters Building]], Washington D.C.
|-
!colspan=4| Operating forces
|-
|[[File:Commander Atlantic Area Crest.png|75px]]
|[[Coast Guard Atlantic Area]] (LANTAREA)
|Conducts Coast Guard operations east of the Rocky Mountains, to include the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean, Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
|Coast Guard Station Portsmouth, Virginia
|-
|[[File:USCG Pacarea.png|75px]]
|[[Coast Guard Pacific Area]] (PACAREA)
|Conducts Coast Guard operations west of the Rocky Mountains, to include the Indo-Pacific region.
|[[Coast Guard Island|Coast Guard Base Alameda]], California
|-
|[[File:Coast Guard Cyber Command.png|75px]]
|[[Coast Guard Cyber Command]] (CGCYBER)
|Conducts Coast Guard cyber operations and collaborates with [[United States Cyber Command]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cybercom.mil/Media/News/Article/3247521/cyber-101-us-coast-guard-cyber-command-cgcyber/https://www.cybercom.mil/Media/News/Article/3247521/cyber-101-us-coast-guard-cyber-command-cgcyber/|title=CYBER 101: US Coast Guard Cyber Command (CGCYBER)|website=U.S. Cyber Command}}{{Dead link|date=May 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>
|Washington D.C.
|-
|[[File:Seal of the United States Coast Guard Reserve.svg|75px]]
|[[United States Coast Guard Reserve|U.S. Coast Guard Reserve]] (USCGR)
|Oversees and maintains Coast Guard reserve forces
|[[Douglas A. Munro Coast Guard Headquarters Building]], Washington D.C.
|}