tactical air operations

Definition/Scope: An air operation involving the employment of air power in coordination with ground or naval forces to: (a) gain and maintain air superiority; (b) prevent movement of enemy forces into and within the objective area and to seek out and destroy these forces and their supporting installations; and (c) join with ground or naval forces in operations within the objective area, in order to assist directly in attainment of their immediate objective.

Broader Terms:

air operations
tactical operation

Related Terms:

air interdiction
allocation (air)
apportionment
Close Air Support
counterair