United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) Overview

Introduction

This document serves as a comprehensive overview of United States Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), one of the Unified Combatant Commands of the United States. It includes essential information about the command’s mission, area of responsibility, strategic priorities, and key leadership. Additionally, it provides links to important documents, news articles, and other resources that paint a full picture of the command’s role in US and global defense efforts.

Mission Statement

“The mission of United States Northern Command is to defend our homeland - deters, detects, denies, and defeats threats to the United States, conducts security cooperation activities with allies and partners, and supports civil authorities.”

Area of Responsibility

• Geographic Scope: USNORTHCOM’s area of responsibility includes air, land, and sea approaches and encompasses the continental United States, Alaska, Canada, Mexico, and the surrounding water out to approximately 500 nautical miles. It also includes the Gulf of Mexico, the Straits of Florida, portions of the Caribbean region to include The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Countries/Regions Included: United States, Canada, Mexico, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands.

Strategic Importance

• USNORTHCOM plays a critical role in homeland defense and civil support missions, including disaster relief and counter-drug operations. It works closely with federal, state, and local authorities to respond to national emergencies and protect the public.
• The command’s strategic importance is underscored by its dual role with the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), focusing on aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for North America.

Command Structure

• Headquarters: Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado.
• Key Components: Includes NORAD, various Joint Task Forces for homeland defense and civil support, and the Alaskan NORAD Region.
• Leadership:
  • Commander: General Gregory M. Guillot, USAF. Previously served as the Commander of Ninth Air Force (Air Forces Central) and Deputy Commander, U.S. Central Command.
  • Deputy Commander: Lieutenant General A.C. Roper, USA. Former Deputy Commanding General, U.S. Army Reserve Command and Deputy Chief, Army Reserve.
  • Chief of Staff: Major General Allan “Al” Pepin, USA. Formerly commanded Joint Task Force-National Capital Region and U.S. Army Military District of Washington.
  • Senior Enlisted Leader: Sergeant Major James K. Porterfield, USMC. Prior experience includes roles as Sergeant Major for I Marine Expeditionary Force and 3d Marine Aircraft Wing.

Source Documents and Resources

• Posture Statements: 2023 Posture Statement
• Strategic Vision Documents: NORAD and USNORTHCOM Strategy
• Press Releases: Press Releases
• News Articles: News
• History Page: About USNORTHCOM
• Leadership Bios: Leadership

Key Facts and Figures

• USNORTHCOM was established in 2002 to enhance homeland defense and coordination among defense activities within the U.S. It also plays a significant role in disaster response and managing the consequences of terrorist events.
• The command has been pivotal in providing support during major disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Additional Resources

• Official Website: USNORTHCOM
• Social Media Links: Facebook, Twitter
• Contact Information: For further inquiries or engagement with the command.

Conclusion

United States Northern Command plays a crucial role in defending the homeland and supporting civil authorities during times of national emergency. Its dual hat with NORAD underscores its importance in aerospace and maritime defense, ensuring the safety and security of the United States and Canada. Through strong partnerships and a commitment to innovation and readiness, USNORTHCOM continues to uphold national and international security.

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Note: This document is intended to serve as an informative resource and may be updated periodically to reflect changes in USNORTHCOM’s strategic direction, leadership, or operational focus. Always refer to the official website or directly contact the command for the most current information.