Which role of air power involves achieving and maintaining control of the air domain?

The role of air power that involves achieving and maintaining control of the air domain is centered around the concept of air superiority. Control of the Air ensures that friendly forces can operate freely in the skies, while denying the enemy the same capability. This role encompasses various operations such as air patrols, air defense, and offensive air operations, all aimed at neutralizing or destroying enemy aerial threats and ensuring dominance in the air.

Achieving control of the air is crucial for the success of other military operations on land and at sea, as it enables the safe movement of forces and resources, and enhances the effectiveness of combined joint operations. Without control of the air, other roles like Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance, Attack and Precision Strike, and Strategic Mobility would be severely hampered, as enemy forces could disrupt operations from the air without threat of reprisal. Therefore, the primary focus of this role is to secure and maintain an advantage in the air, paving the way for achieving overall mission objectives.