A Brigade is a significantly large unit, consisting of between 1,500 and 3,200 soldiers that can be employed on independent or semi-independent operations. The Brigade is normally commanded by a Colonel (O-6), although in some cases a Brigadier General may assume command. The Command Sergeant Major (E-9) is the principal non-commissioned officer assistant.

Brigadier General O-7
or
Colonel O-6
Command Sergeant Major CSM E-9

Three to five brigades normally compose a Division. There are currently 33 combat (Infantry and Armor/Cavalry) Brigades in the Army. During combat operations each of these Brigades have a field artillery battalion, engineer battalion and combat service support battalion in direct support. Brigades also exist in combat service and combat service support branches (e.g., Engineer Brigade, Signal Brigade).

Armored Cavalry units of this size are referred to as Regiments (Armored Cavalry Regiment). Ranger and Special Forces units are referred to as Groups.