What is the objective of Counter Air operations?

The objective of Counter Air operations focuses on maintaining air superiority, which is critical for the effectiveness of military operations. Air superiority allows friendly forces to operate in an area without undue interference from enemy air forces. This control of the airspace creates the conditions necessary for ground and naval forces to perform their tasks more effectively, as well as providing protection to friendly assets and operations from enemy aerial threats. By achieving and sustaining the dominance in the air, military commanders can ensure that their operations proceed with minimal risk from air attacks, allowing for a more efficient execution of military strategies.

The other choices reflect important aspects of military operations but do not encapsulate the primary goal of Counter Air operations. Deploying ground troops, disrupting enemy supply lines, and securing aerial refueling are all significant components of broader military strategy but do not directly represent the focus of Counter Air, which is singularly aimed at achieving control and superiority in the air.