Who chooses the name for military operation

 The authority for choosing the name for a military operation varies depending on the scale and nature of the operation, as well as the specific military and national protocols involved. However, a general overview can be provided:

For larger, more significant operations (especially those involving multiple branches or international partners):

 * Senior Military Leadership: The initial proposals for operation names often come from the planning staff at the relevant command level (e.g., Joint Staff for US operations). Mid-level officers are typically involved in the initial brainstorming and suggestion process.

 * Commander: The top commander overseeing the operation usually has a significant say and often approves the proposed name.

 * Joint Chiefs of Staff (or equivalent): For major operations, the proposed name might need to be reviewed and approved by the highest military body.

 * Secretary of Defense (or equivalent civilian authority): In many countries, particularly for large-scale deployments or potentially sensitive operations, the final decision can rest with the civilian leadership at the defense ministry level. This ensures that the name aligns with national policy and public perception goals.

For smaller, tactical-level operations:

 * Local Commanders: The naming authority is often delegated to the commanders at the operational or tactical level. They might have more flexibility in choosing names relevant to their specific objectives or units.

General Considerations in Naming:

 * Secrecy and Security: Names should ideally not reveal the nature, location, or objectives of the operation to the adversary. Early naming conventions often focused on obscure or seemingly random words.

 * Morale and Public Perception: The name can influence how the operation is perceived by the troops involved, the public, and international audiences. Names should generally avoid being offensive, boastful, or trivial.

 * Historical Context: Sometimes, names might be chosen to evoke historical precedents or figures, though this is done with caution to avoid unintended connotations.

 * Modern Practices: In some modern militaries, there are guidelines and even computer systems (like the US Department of Defense's NICKA system) to help generate and validate operation names, ensuring they meet certain criteria and avoid duplication. These systems often assign prefixes to different commands.

In summary, while the initial suggestions often come from mid-level planning staff, the final decision on the name of a military operation typically involves review and approval by higher levels of military command and, for significant operations, potentially civilian leadership. The process aims to balance operational security, strategic messaging, and public perception.