Which statement about combatant commands is true?

• A. They operate independently of civilian oversight.
• B. They report to the United Nations for missions.
• C. They are primarily involved in training only.
• D. They report to the President and the Secretary of Defense for military operations.

Answer: (D)

Combatant commands are unified commands that operate under civilian control and are responsible for directing military operations under the authority of the President and the Secretary of Defense. The President, as Commander in Chief, signs off on campaigns and missions, and the Secretary of Defense assigns forces and approves operational plans. Combatant Commanders have the authority to direct the forces within their area of responsibility in the conduct of operations, training, and planning as part of overall national security objectives, but always within civilian oversight. They do not report to the United Nations, which has no operational command over U.S. forces, and their role extends beyond training to planning and executing military operations. This structure is what makes the statement about reporting for military operations to the President and the Secretary of Defense the true one.