What is the primary mission of air defense?

The primary mission of air defense is focused on providing a comprehensive and layered approach to protect against aerial threats, which aligns with the concept of Defense in Depth. This strategy involves creating multiple layers of defensive measures that work together to detect, engage, and neutralize enemy aircraft and missiles before they can reach their intended targets.

Defense in Depth emphasizes not just the physical barriers that prevent attacks but also encompasses detection, monitoring, and responsive actions at multiple points in the operational environment. By implementing this approach, air defense systems can effectively manage risk and enhance the safety of critical assets and personnel on the ground and in the air.

In contrast to some of the other options, such as cyber threats or using intelligence primarily to gather data, the core of air defense centers around protecting airspace from direct aerial engagement. Supporting ground troops, while important, is not the overarching mission of air defense but rather part of a broader operational strategy that is supported through effective air defense mechanisms.