What does the acronym COCOM stand for?

The acronym COCOM stands for Combatant Command. In a military context, a Combatant Command is a unified or specified command that is established by the President or the Secretary of Defense. It is responsible for planning and executing operations and missions across specific geographical areas or functional responsibilities. COCOMs play a critical role in unifying the efforts of various service branches, coordinating joint operations, and ensuring effective management of military resources.

This term is particularly significant in joint operations, as it reflects the structure used to organize and command forces from different services working together. Each Combatant Command has authority and control over its area of responsibility, allowing for coordinated strategies that leverage the strengths of each military branch.