US drops 'Indo' from Indo-Pacific Command
What's the story
The United States Department of War has officially reverted the name of the US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) back to its original title, the United States Pacific Command (USPACOM). The change was announced on Tuesday and is aimed at honoring the command's "deep historical roots." The command was first established as USPACOM on January 1, 1947, by former President Harry S Truman.
Legacy and responsibility
USPacificom oldest and largest of America's unified combatant commands
USPACOM has served under its original name for over seven decades, making it the oldest and largest of America's unified combatant commands. The Department of War said "restoring the legacy USPACOM designation honors the command's deep historical roots, fostering a sense of pride and collective spirit among all who serve in the Pacific." However, despite the name change, the command's operational responsibilities remain unchanged. Its area of responsibility continues from the waters off America's West Coast to India's western border.
Unchanged mission
Core mission and commitment unchanged
The command's core mission and commitment to a free and open theater with regional allies are unchanged, according to the Department of War. The command was renamed to USINDOPACOM in May 2018 by then-Defense Secretary Jim Mattis. The move was aimed at highlighting India's growing importance to the Pentagon. Mattis had said that "Relationships with our Pacific and Indian Ocean allies and partners have proven critical to maintaining regional stability." Admiral Samuel Paparo currently leads USPACOM.