How is an air assault operation defined?

An air assault operation is defined as a mission that involves engaging enemy forces or seizing and holding key terrain. This definition emphasizes the offensive nature of air assault operations, highlighting their primary goal of achieving tactical superiority on the battlefield. Air assaults typically involve the coordinated movement of ground and air assets, allowing forces to rapidly deploy into combat situations, seize critical objectives, and disrupt enemy operations.

While transporting supplies and equipment is a component of many operations, it does not capture the essence of what makes an air assault unique, which is the direct action against the enemy. Similarly, conducting rescue missions is a specific type of operation that doesn't encompass the broad objectives of an air assault. Providing air support for ground troops is also significant, but it does not directly define an air assault operation, which is characterized by the assault aspect of engaging and controlling the battlefield.