What is a function of US Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM)?

The function of US Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM) primarily revolves around contingency planning and security cooperation within its designated area of responsibility, which includes Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. This involves engaging with nations in the region to enhance their security capabilities and fostering cooperative relationships.

USSOUTHCOM focuses on addressing regional challenges such as drug trafficking, terrorism, and natural disasters through collaborative efforts with partner nations. This security cooperation is vital for building partnerships that promote stability and enhance collective defense in the region.

The other functions listed in the choices, while significant in their respective domains, do not align with the core mission of USSOUTHCOM. For example, global strike operations are typically associated with the US military's strategic command capabilities rather than regional commands. Air education and training is more relevant to the Air Education and Training Command, focusing on the training and education of airmen. Space operations fall under the purview of US Space Command, which is dedicated to space-related activities and security. Thus, the emphasis on contingency planning and security cooperation accurately reflects USSOUTHCOM's primary role in the region.