Who is responsible for specifying construction standards in a theater of operations?

The correct answer is the Combatant Commander, as this individual holds the responsibility for establishing and specifying construction standards within a theater of operations. The Combatant Commander plays a crucial role in planning and executing military operations, ensuring that all activities, including construction projects, align with strategic goals and operational needs. Their authority allows them to set the conditions and requirements for infrastructure development and maintenance, taking into account the unique challenges and circumstances of the specific operational environment.

The Base Commander may be involved in managing local installations, but their focus is mainly on operational readiness and daily functions rather than overarching construction standards. The Chief of Engineers, while having expertise in engineering matters and capabilities, typically provides advice and technical support but does not have the ultimate authority over command decisions in a theater. Lastly, the Logistics Officer focuses on supply chain and logistics management, which, while essential to operations, does not extend to defining construction standards in the same way that the Combatant Commander does.