Offensive counter-air operations

Offensive counter-air (OCA) operations are military actions aimed at degrading or destroying enemy aircraft, anti-aircraft systems, and air defenses before they can pose a threat. These operations involve actively launching aircraft or missiles into enemy airspace to gain air superiority, reduce the enemy's ability to defend itself, and secure safe skies for friendly forces. Think of it as preemptively striking at the enemy’s aerial capabilities to prevent them from interfering with ground or naval operations, ensuring control of the air during combat missions.