Air interdiction (AI) is the use of aircraft to attack tactical ground targets that are not in close proximity to friendly ground forces. It differs from close air support because it does not directly support ground operations and is not closely coordinated with ground units. Unlike strategic bombing, air interdiction is not meant as an independent air campaign; its ultimate purpose is still to allow ground operations rather than to defeat an enemy by air power alone.
The purpose of air interdiction is to delay, disrupt, or destroy enemy forces or supplies en route to the battle area before they can harm friendly forces. Even at such degree, used in an interdictive offensive assault against enemy forces without friendly forces involved, a distinction is often made between strategic and tactical interdiction. Strategic operations are broad and long-term; tactical operations are designed to affect events rapidly and in a localized area.
Read more about Air Interdiction: Background, Lessons Learned, Examples of Air Interdiction Campaigns
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