The American military, officially known as the United States Armed Forces, is composed of five branches: the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Its primary mission is to protect the United States and its interests, both domestically and internationally. The military is responsible for national defense, responding to emergencies, and supporting international peacekeeping efforts. The American military is one of the largest and most advanced in the world, with a diverse range of capabilities, including ground forces, naval fleets, and aerial units. It operates under the authority of the Department of Defense and is led by the President of the United States as the Commander-in-Chief.