What does the term "Naval Operations" encompass in the PCA?

The term "Naval Operations" primarily refers to the tactics, missions, and strategies used in maritime warfare. This encompasses the planning and execution of various military maneuvers and engagements at sea, focusing on how naval forces are deployed to achieve specific objectives. It reflects the operational aspect of naval engagements, including how ships, submarines, and aircraft are utilized in combat situations, coordinating efforts to enhance effectiveness in achieving overall military goals.

With naval operations being a broad field, they cover everything from warfighting strategies to mission planning and execution in a complex maritime environment. This understanding is essential for midshipmen, as it frames their future roles in naval leadership and operational planning. The other choices, while related to naval activities, fall under different categories: maintenance is about the upkeep of vessels and equipment, development of new technologies focuses on innovation and advancements, and logistical support relates to the supply chain and support functions required for operations to be successful. Each of these areas is important but does not define what encompasses naval operations as it pertains specifically to strategic and tactical execution in maritime conflict.