Who typically conducts strategic war planning in the United States?

The Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) play a crucial role in the strategic war planning process in the United States. They are responsible for providing strategic direction and military guidance to the President and the Secretary of Defense. This group consists of the highest-ranking military officers from the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Marines, as well as the Chief of the National Guard Bureau.

One of their primary functions is to formulate national military strategy, assess military requirements and capabilities, and offer recommendations on defense policy. The JCS also coordinate with various military branches and agencies to ensure a unified approach to military operations, which is essential in both wartime and peacetime. By integrating the perspectives and expertise of different service branches, the Joint Chiefs ensure that the U.S. military's strategic planning is comprehensive and aligned with national security objectives.

While combatant commanders oversee specific geographic or functional theaters and operational planners focus on executing specific plans, it is the Joint Chiefs of Staff who are tasked with the overarching strategy and critical decision-making required for effective military operations at the national level.