The geographic areas of responsibility for geographic Combatant Commanders are established at which level(s)?

The geographic areas of responsibility for geographic Combatant Commanders are established at the strategic level. This is because strategic planning encompasses the overarching goals and policies that guide military operations across various theaters of conflict and regions. The definition of a Combatant Commander's area of responsibility (AOR) is a strategic decision that considers national security interests, geopolitical factors, and the need for effective military engagement within specific regions.

In contrast, tactical and operational levels primarily focus on the execution and organization of military actions within those established strategic guidelines. Tactical decisions involve the direct engagement of forces on the battlefield, while operational levels deal with the planning and coordination of military operations to achieve strategic objectives. Thus, defining areas of responsibility is fundamentally a strategic function, aimed at aligning military capabilities with national defense priorities.