National Command Authority (NCA)

The National Command Authority (NCA) refers to the ultimate decision-making body in a country's military policy, specifically concerning nuclear weapons. In the United States, it consists of the President and the Secretary of Defense. The NCA has the authority to authorize the use of nuclear force and is responsible for ensuring national security. The structure is designed to ensure that such critical decisions are made at the highest levels of government, reflecting a balance between civilian control and military advice, thereby enhancing both accountability and effectiveness in matters of national defense.