JP 1, Doctrine for the Armed Forces of the United States - Defense ...

Chapter V
d. Levels of Authority. The specific command relationship (COCOM, OPCON,
TACON, and support) will define the authority a commander has over assigned or attached
forces. An overview of command relationships is shown in Figure V-1.
2. Combatant Command (Command Authority)
COCOM is the command authority over assigned forces vested only in the commanders
of CCMDs by Title 10, USC, Section 164 (or as otherwise directed by the President or
SecDef) and cannot be delegated or transferred.
a. Basic Authority. COCOM provides full authority for a CCDR to perform those
functions of command over assigned forces involving organizing and employing commands
and forces, assigning tasks, designating objectives, and giving authoritative direction over all
aspects of military operations, joint training (or in the case of USSOCOM, training of
assigned forces), and logistics necessary to accomplish the missions assigned to the
command. COCOM should be exercised through the commanders of subordinate
organizations, normally JFCs, Service and/or functional component commanders.
Command Relationships Synopsis
Combatant Command (Command Authority)
(Unique to Combatant Commander)
Planning, programming, budgeting, and execution process input
Assignment of subordinate commanders
Relationships with Department of Defense agencies
Directive authority for logistics
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Operational control when delegated
Authoritative direction for all military operations and joint training
Organize and employ commands and forces
Assign command functions to subordinates
Establish plans and requirements for intelligence, surveillance, and
reconnaissance activities
Suspend subordinate commanders from duty
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Tactical control when delegated
Local direction and control of
movements or maneuvers to
accomplish mission
Support relationship when assigned
Aid, assist, protect, or sustain
another organization
Figure V-1. Command Relationships Synopsis
V-2 JP 1