U.S. Army

The United States Army is the primary land-based branch of the U.S. Department of Defense, dedicated to preserving peace, security, and providing defense for the nation. Its mission includes supporting national policies, implementing national objectives, and overcoming nations responsible for aggressive acts that threaten U.S. security.

As the largest military branch, the Army comprises the Regular Army, Army National Guard, and U.S. Army Reserve, collectively known as the Total Army. In fiscal year 2022, the projected end strength was 480,893 soldiers for the Regular Army, with the Army National Guard and Reserve contributing 336,129 and 188,703 soldiers, respectively.

This brings the combined strength to 1,005,725 soldiers, making it a formidable force.

Core Competencies

The Army’s core competencies include prompt and sustained land combat, combined arms operations, special operations forces, and integration of national, multinational, and joint power on land. These allow the Army to conduct a wide range of missions from large-scale combat to peacekeeping.

Restructuring and Modernization

Recently, the Army has undergone significant restructuring to meet future warfare demands. Approximately 24,000 positions, nearly 5% of its current force, were cut, mainly targeting counterinsurgency roles.

This reduction was balanced by adding around 7,500 troops focused on air defense, counter-drone operations, and enhanced cyber, intelligence, and long-range strike capabilities. The shift in focus moves from counterterrorism to readiness for large-scale combat against rivals like China and Russia.

Special Operations

The Army’s Special Operations Command manages elite units such as the 1st Special Forces Command (Airborne) and the 75th Ranger Regiment, trained for complex, high-risk missions. Additionally, a new counter-drone task force is being formed to enhance coordination across military branches in response to growing drone threats.

Locations in the United States

The Army operates numerous installations nationwide. Key locations include:

• Fort Bragg, North Carolina – headquarters for the XVIII Airborne Corps and U.S. Army Special Operations Command.
• Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington – hosts multiple Army facilities.
• Manchester, NH, USA
• Providence, RI, USA
• Boston, MA, USA
• Lowell, MA, USA
• Allentown, PA, US
• Portland, ME, USA
• Philadelphia, PA, USA

These locations reflect the Army’s extensive presence and strategic distribution across the country.

In summary, the United States Army is pivotal in safeguarding the nation’s interests through its evolving capabilities. It maintains readiness to address diverse security challenges worldwide.