The United States Military refers to the combined armed forces of the United States, responsible for defending the nation, deterring aggression, and conducting military operations in support of national security objectives. It is one of the world’s largest and most technologically advanced military organizations.
The United States Military operates under civilian control, with the President of the United States serving as commander-in-chief.
Overview
The United States Military consists of six uniformed service branches and operates globally through permanent bases, forward deployments, and expeditionary forces. Its primary missions include national defense, power projection, deterrence, humanitarian assistance, and support of international security efforts.
Civilian control and leadership
Civilian control of the military is a foundational principle of the United States government.
- The President serves as commander-in-chief.
- The Secretary of Defense oversees military policy and operations.
- The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff acts as the principal military advisor to the President and Secretary of Defense.
Military operations are authorized by civilian leadership, though Congress holds constitutional authority over declarations of war, funding, and oversight.
Branches of the armed forces
The United States Military is composed of the following branches:
- United States Army
- United States Navy
- United States Marine Corps
- United States Air Force
- United States Space Force
- United States Coast Guard (under the Department of Homeland Security in peacetime)
Each branch has distinct roles while operating jointly during major operations.
Global presence
The United States maintains a global military presence, with installations and deployments across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and the Indo-Pacific region. This presence supports alliances, deters adversaries, and enables rapid response to crises.
U.S. forces regularly participate in joint exercises and multinational operations with allied countries.
Military operations
The United States Military conducts a wide range of operations, including:
- Combat operations
- Counterterrorism missions
- Peacekeeping and stabilization efforts
- Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance
- Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
Operations are carried out independently or in coordination with allies and international organizations.
Role in national security
The U.S. military plays a central role in national security strategy, including deterrence of state adversaries, defense of allies, protection of global trade routes, and response to emerging threats such as cyber warfare and space-based challenges.
Military power is often combined with diplomatic and economic tools as part of broader foreign policy objectives.
Domestic support and law enforcement
While primarily focused on external threats, the United States Military may provide support to civil authorities during emergencies, such as natural disasters. Federal law generally restricts the use of active-duty forces in domestic law enforcement, except under specific legal authorities.
2026 operation involving Venezuela
In January 2026, the United States Military conducted an operation in Venezuela that resulted in the detention of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. U.S. officials stated that the operation was carried out in support of national security and law enforcement objectives.
The operation marked one of the most significant U.S. military actions involving a sitting foreign head of state and was followed by the transfer of custody to U.S. federal law enforcement agencies.
Oversight and accountability
The United States Military is subject to oversight by Congress, the judiciary, and the Department of Defense’s internal review mechanisms. Military conduct is governed by domestic law, international law, and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.
Public debate over military interventions and the scope of U.S. power has remained a recurring feature of American political life.