Consolidate NORTHCOM and SOUTHCOM
The arbitrary division of the Western Hemisphere creates an exploitable seam we can no longer afford.
Jason Smith | August 5, 2025
There is renewed debate over reducing the number of combatant commands, with advocates citing cost savings and improved unity of effort. Secretary Hegseth argues that streamlining command structures—particularly by cutting general and flag officer billets—would increase readiness. While views vary, one region stands out as strategically essential and well-suited for consolidation: the Western Hemisphere.
The current division between U.S. Southern Command and U.S. Northern Command creates a seam that adversaries exploit. A single, threat-based command—call it USAMERICOM—would replace fixed geographic boundaries with operational alignment against transnational threats: criminal networks, state-sponsored influence, cyber activity, and mass migration. These threats span regions and exploit existing command divides. Consolidation would improve strategic clarity, streamline authorities, and enhance unity of effort across North, Central, and South America—delivering greater impact at lower cost.
Threats at the seams
A military axiom holds that the enemy attacks at the seams: the gaps where units or command structures converge. These areas demand constant coordination and are inherently vulnerable. This applies not just tactically, as seen in Ukraine, but at the operational level where combatant commands intersect.
https://www.defenseone.com/ideas/2025/08/consolidate-northcom-and-southcom/407221/?oref=d1-skybox-hp
