In
U.S. armed forces parlance, an area of operations (AO) is an operational area defined by the force commander for land, air, and naval forces' conduct of combat and non-combat activities. Areas of operations do not typically encompass the entire
operational area of the force commander, but should be large enough for subordinate commanders to accomplish their goals, achieve objectives and missions, and to protect their forces. Within an AO there will typically be one
main supply route along which vehicles, personnel and supplies will be transported.
[Joint Publication 3-0 page IV-13]
See also
*
Area of responsibility
References
Military terminology of the United States
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