What does the acronym COCOM stand for in the context of military command?

The acronym COCOM in a military context stands for Combatant Command authority. This term refers to the organizational structure that provides a unified command over multiple armed forces, typically across various geographic regions or mission areas. A Combatant Commander has the authority to direct forces in a given area of responsibility and is responsible for planning and executing operations to accomplish their assigned missions.

By designating authority within the military hierarchy, COCOM facilitates effective decision-making and coordination among various branches of the armed forces, ensuring that operations are well-organized and aligned with strategic objectives. This command structure is essential for maintaining operational readiness and efficacy during both peacetime and conflict situations.