air interdiction

Definition/Scope: (JP 1-02). Air operations conducted to divert, disrupt, delay, or destroy the enemy's military potential before it can be brought to bear effectively against friendly forces, or to otherwise achieve objectives. Air interdiction is conducted at such distance from friendly forces that detailed integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of friendly forces is not required. (JP 3-0) (FM 101-5-1). Normally conducted forward of the land component commander’s forward boundary.

Used For:

BAI
battlefield air interdiction

Acronym:

AI

Broader Terms:

air operations
interdiction

Related Terms:

AC-130H Spectre
B-52 Stratofortress
Close Air Support
F-4 Phantom II
salvo
tactical air operations