8. The Operational Chain of Command:

The Operational chain of command reflects the flow of authority for the operational direction of forces from the top of the chain down. There are four types of operational command relationships:

·       Combatant Command (COCOM)

·       Operational Control (OPCON)

·       Tactical Control (TACON)

·       Support

a. Combatant Command (COCOM)

COCOM is the command authority over assigned forces vested only in the commanders of combatant commands by title 10. US Code, section 164. or as directed by the President in the Unified Command Plan (UCP). It cannot be delegated or transferred by the commander. COCOM is the authority of a combatant commander 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.

b. Operational Control (OPCON)

OPCON is inherent in COCOM and 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 necessary to accomplish the mission. OPCON includes authoritative direction over all aspects of military operations and joint training necessary to accomplish missions assigned to the command.

c. Tactical Control (TACON)

TACON is the command authority over assigned or attached forces or commands or military capability made available for tasking that is limited to the detailed and usually local direction and control of movements or maneuvers necessary to accomplish assigned missions or tasks. TACON may be delegated to and exercised by commanders at any echelon at or below the level of combatant command. TACON is inherent in OPCON.

d. Support

Support is a command authority. A support relationship is established by a superior commander between subordinate commanders when one organization should aid, protect, complement, or sustain another force. Support may be exercised by commanders at any echelon at or below the level of combatant command. Several categories of support have been defined for use within a combatant command as appropriate to better characterize the support that should be given. The four categories of support are: General, Mutual, Direct and Close.