United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) Overview

Introduction

This document serves as a comprehensive overview of the United States Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), 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 Southern Command is to conduct military operations and promote security cooperation to achieve U.S. strategic objectives.”

Area of Responsibility

• Geographic Scope: SOUTHCOM is responsible for providing contingency planning, operations, and security cooperation for Central and South America, the Caribbean (except U.S. commonwealths, territories, and possessions), and their territorial waters. It also encompasses the portion of the Atlantic Ocean east of the Panama Canal.
• Countries/Regions Included: The area of responsibility includes 31 countries and 16 dependencies and areas of special sovereignty. The total area is nearly 15.6 million square miles.

Strategic Importance

• SOUTHCOM’s area of operation encompasses a diverse region critical to U.S. national security interests, particularly in terms of controlling the approaches to the Panama Canal and countering transnational organized crime.
• Key focus areas include fostering security cooperation with regional partners, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, countering drug trafficking, and counterterrorism.

Command Structure

• Headquarters: Miami, Florida.
• Key Components: Includes component commands from the Army (U.S. Army South), Navy (U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command), Air Force (Twelfth Air Force), Marine Corps (Marine Forces South), and Special Operations (Special Operations Command South).
• Leadership:
  • Commander: Gen. Laura J. Richardson. Background includes previous leadership roles as Commander of U.S. Army North.
  • Deputy Commander: Vice Adm. Alvin Holsey. Background in various naval commands and most recently served as director of Task Force One Navy.
  • Chief of Staff: Maj. Gen. Scott A. Jackson. Background in various Army leadership positions and deployment experiences.
  • Senior Enlisted Leader: Sgt. Maj. Rafael Rodriguez. Extensive background in Marine Corps leadership and operations.

Source Documents and Resources

• Posture Statements: 2024 SOUTHCOM Posture Statement
• Strategic Vision Documents: -
• Press Releases: Link to Press Releases
• News Articles: Recent News
• History Page: SOUTHCOM History
• Leadership Bios: SOUTHCOM Leadership

Key Facts and Figures

• SOUTHCOM’s area includes one-sixth of the landmass occupied by Latin America and the Caribbean, emphasizing its strategic importance.
• Engagements include multinational exercises, security cooperation activities, and humanitarian assistance programs.

Additional Resources

• Official Website: https://www.southcom.mil/
• Social Media Links:
  • Facebook: USSOUTHCOM
  • Twitter: @Southcom
• Contact Information: For further inquiries or engagement with the command.

Conclusion

United States Southern Command plays a crucial role in promoting security, prosperity, and democratic values in the Western Hemisphere. With a focus on partnership, readiness, and innovation, SOUTHCOM ensures the defense of the U.S. homeland and advances U.S. strategic interests in the region. Explore the resources provided for a more comprehensive understanding of its mission and activities.

---

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