United States Forces-Afghanistan

United States Forces-Afghanistan (USFOR-A) is the senior U.S. military headquarters in Afghanistan, with a complex structure and reporting chain. It is commanded by GEN Stanley McChrystal.

The main overt U.S. combat force in Afghanistan is Task Force 180, which is both a subcommand of the NATO International Security Assistance Force and United States Central Command. TF180 is oriented towards counterinsurgency, or "people-centric" operations providing security for the Afghan people.

There is also a substantial organization from United States Special Operations Command, especially the highly classsified Joint Special Operations Command, which is oriented toward counterterrorism rather than counterinsurgency. Their techniques include direct action (military) with raids and ambushes against terrorists, as well as special reconnaissance to guide aircraft, drone and missile strikes.