Acommand inmilitary terminology is an organisational unit for which amilitary commander is responsible. Commands, sometimes calledunits orformations, form the building blocks of a military. A commander is normally specifically appointed to the role in order to provide alegal framework for the authority bestowed.Naval andmilitary officers have legal authority by virtue of theirofficer's commission, but the specific responsibilities and privileges of command are derived from the publication of appointment.
The relevant definition of 'command' according to theUnited States Department of Defense (US DOD) is as follows:[1]
(DOD) 3. A unit or units, an organization, or an area under the command of one individual. Also called CMD. See also area command;combatant command; combatant command (command authority).
Major Command or Major Commands are largeformations used by theUnited States Department of Defense. Historically, a Major Command is the highest level of command. Within theUnited States Army, the acronym MACOM is used for Major Command.[2] Within theUnited States Air Force (USAF), the acronym MAJCOM is used.[3][4]
There are several types of DOD major commands: