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“Deterrence through Detection” UNCLASSIFIED

superior capabilities in all operations. It is established through naval, joint, or
combined operations aimed at securing the use of oceanic and coastal areas for
one's forces while denying their use to the enemy.

c. Sea Denial – Sea Denial occurs when one party, unable to fully control a

maritime area, prevents the other party from gaining control over it. While not
entirely separate from sea control, sea denial is a component of sea control, as it
involves restricting an adversary’s freedom of action. The concept is relevant
when full sea control is either not possible or not desired. At the operational
level, a sea denial zone can be used as part of a broader defence strategy or to
contain opposing forces. In warfare, sea denial is often achieved through
continuous attacks on an adversary’s sea lines of communication (SLOCs).

d. Maritime Power Projection – Maritime power projection refers to the
use, or the threat of using, maritime power to directly impact events on land. It
leverages sea control to gain access to coastal areas and deliver power ashore
through amphibious forces, carrier strike operations, organic aircraft, land-
attack weapons, and special operations forces (SOF). This concept is widely
applicable in both crisis management and during active hostilities.

45. These core principles of maritime operations shape the use of air power in the

maritime environment, leading to distinct mission types. In this context, Anti-Surface
Warfare (ASuW) and Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) are the two primary areas of
focus. The goal is to detect, monitor, neutralize, or destroy enemy forces, establish
defence in depth, and maintain the initiative. This task can be carried out by land-based
and sea-based aircraft, submarines, or surface vessels, ideally through coordinated
action.

Air Power Contribution to Maritime Operations

46. Air power operations aim to deny enemy the military capability required to
occupy territory or control sea space by neutralizing, delaying, or destroying surface
forces. In the maritime environment, these operations are conducted by both land-
based and sea-based aircraft, supporting anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare
efforts. It is essential that air power contributions are closely coordinated with the
supported commander and integrated with the supporting commander’s own air
operations. This ensures unity of effort and minimizes the risk of friendly fire.

47. Anti-Surface Warfare. Anti-Surface Warfare (ASUW) encompasses a broad
range of operations, including surveillance and reconnaissance missions that may
ultimately lead to the attack of enemy vessels. An ASUW mission consists of four key
elements, as outlined below:

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UNCLASSIFIED “Deterrence through Detection”