The secretary of defense (SecDef) is the leader and chief executive officer of the Yuktobonian Military, the executive department of the Armed Forces of Yuktobonia. The secretary of defense's position of command and authority over the Yuktobonian military is second only to that of the Prime Minister. This position corresponds to what is generally known as a defense minister in many other countries. The secretary of defense is appointed by the Prime Minister with the advice and consent of the legislative body, and is by custom a member of the Cabinet and by law a member of the National Security Council.