Starfleet Command

Starfleet Command, or Spacefleet Command, was the operating authority of Starfleet, the exploratory, scientific, and military department of United Earth before being integrated into the United Federation of Planets in 2161. The organization's primary management center was located at Starfleet Headquarters in San Francisco, Earth. (Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home)

History

During the 22nd century and through the 23rd century, Starfleet Command was under the jurisdiction of the UESPA, notably during Captain James T. Kirk's era.

Pre-Federation

After the signing of the Federation Charter on May 8, 2161, it could be assumed that Earth Starfleet Command was either dissolved, absorbed into, or became the modern incarnation of Starfleet Command that regulates the Federation Starfleet.

Federation

Starfleet Command is overseen by the Federation Council and run by a chief of staff, a position held by Admiral Jonathan Archer in the late-22nd century.

Besides the fleet, Starfleet Command also oversees the various other branches of Starfleet.

Because of the time delays involved in many subspace communications, Starfleet Command also includes a network of administrative and support outposts known as starbases throughout the Federation. Starfleet's starships operate out of these starbases under the supervision of various admirals, the senior officers of the fleet.

The order to quarantine a ship or station comes from Starfleet Command. (TNG|Unnatural Selection)

The term "Starfleet" and "Starfleet Command" were first used in TOS|Court Martial. Prior to this, in terms of air date, the term "Spacefleet Command" was used in The Squire of Gothos.