What was one of the primary changes established by the Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986?

The Goldwater-Nichols Act of 1986 significantly restructured the command and control of U.S. military forces, emphasizing the importance of unified operations among the armed services. One of the primary changes it implemented was the elevation of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS) to the status of the principal military advisor to the President and the Secretary of Defense. This enhancement of the CJCS's role ensured that military advice was provided more effectively and authoritatively, allowing for improved strategic planning and operational coherence across the services.

This shift aimed to streamline military advice and reflect a more integrated approach to joint operations, fostering collaboration among different branches of the military. The Act made sure that the CJCS had a central position in advising on military matters, which was crucial for aligning military strategy with national policy.