Ministry of Defense (various countries)

The Ministry of Defense, present in many countries, is the government department responsible for national security and military affairs. It oversees the armed forces, develops defense policies, manages military budgets, and coordinates defense strategies. Its goal is to protect the country from external threats and ensure the readiness and effectiveness of the military. The structure and specific responsibilities can vary by country, but broadly, it serves as the central authority for defense-related matters, acting as a bridge between the government and the armed forces to maintain national security.