Which command is responsible for securing and providing combat-ready forces under the President's direction?

The correct answer is Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC). This command is specifically tasked with securing and providing combat-ready forces, particularly in the context of nuclear deterrence and global strike capabilities. AFGSC oversees the nation’s nuclear arsenal and develops strategies to ensure that these forces are ready to respond to national defense needs under the direction of the President.

AFGSC plays a critical role in maintaining the U.S. strategic posture and ensuring that the United States can project power and command from air, which aligns with the responsibility of being ready for deployment in times of conflict. By focusing on both deterrence and effective strike, it directly supports the overarching goal of defending national interests.

In contrast, the other commands provide important capabilities, but they do not focus specifically on the nuclear response and global strike mission as their primary objective. For example, US Southern Command deals with operations in South America, USTRANSCOM is focused on strategic transportation logistics to enhance military operations, and Air Combat Command oversees a broad array of air warfare capabilities but does not specifically focus on nuclear deterrence.