Which branch of government is responsible for directing the military?

The branch of government responsible for directing the military is the Executive branch. This branch is led by the President, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The Constitution grants the President the authority to make critical military decisions, oversee military operations, and ensure national defense. This role includes the ability to appoint senior military officials, direct military tactics, and make strategic decisions regarding the use of the military.

The legislative branch, while it has the power to declare war and control military funding, does not have direct command over military operations. The judicial branch, on the other hand, interprets laws and does not have a role in military command. The term "Federal" is not a specific branch of government but refers to the system of government itself, which encompasses both the executive and legislative branches at the national level. Thus, the authority to direct military actions and strategy clearly resides with the Executive branch.