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

Chapter V
For further information on logistic support, refer to JP 4-0, Joint Logistics.
(3) A CCDR will exercise approval authority over Service logistic programs (base
adjustments, force basing, and other aspects, as appropriate) within the command’s AOR that
will have a significant impact on operational capability or sustainability.
3. Operational Control
OPCON is the command authority that may be exercised by commanders at any echelon
at or below the level of CCMD and may be delegated within the command.
a. Basic Authority. OPCON is able to be delegated from a lesser authority than
COCOM. It is the authority to perform those functions of command over subordinate forces
involving organizing and employing commands and forces, assigning tasks, designating
objectives, and giving authoritative direction over all aspects of military operations and joint
training necessary to accomplish the mission. It should be delegated to and exercised by the
commanders of subordinate organizations; normally, this authority is exercised through
subordinate JFCs, Service, and/or functional component commanders. OPCON provides
authority to organize and employ commands and forces as the commander considers
necessary to accomplish assigned missions. It does not include authoritative direction for
logistics or matters of administration, discipline, internal organization, or unit training.
These elements of COCOM must be specifically delegated by the CCDR. OPCON does
include the authority to delineate functional responsibilities and operational areas of
subordinate JFCs.
b. Commanders of subordinate commands, including JTFs, will be given OPCON of
assigned forces and OPCON or TACON of attached forces by the superior commander.
c. OPCON includes the authority for the following:
(1) Exercise or delegate OPCON and TACON or other specific elements of
authority and establish support relationships among subordinates, and designate coordinating
authorities.
(2) Give direction to subordinate commands and forces necessary to carry out
missions assigned to the command, including authoritative direction over all aspects of
military operations and joint training.
(3) Prescribe the chain of command to the commands and forces within the
command.
(4) With due consideration for unique Service organizational structures and their
specific support requirements, organize subordinate commands and forces within the
command as necessary to carry out missions assigned to the command.
(5) Employ forces within the command, as necessary, to carry out missions
assigned to the command.
V-6 JP 1