What is the primary purpose of air interdiction (AI) missions?

The primary purpose of air interdiction (AI) missions is to prevent the enemy from reinforcing their operations. AI is a form of air support that targets enemy logistics, supply lines, and movement of reinforcements to disrupt their ability to effectively conduct operations on the battlefield. By hitting these key areas, AI missions aim to degrade the enemy's capacity to sustain combat power, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of friendly ground operations.

While destroying enemy forces, supporting ground troops, and gathering intelligence are all important roles within military operations, they do not encapsulate the specific objective of air interdiction, which focuses on thwarting the enemy’s operational sustainment and mobility. This disruption is crucial, as it limits the enemy’s options and can be decisive in shaping the outcome of military engagements.