Which of the following is a key operational goal of Air Defense?

The key operational goal of Air Defense is to intercept and neutralize incoming threats. This focus is crucial because the primary function of air defense is to protect friendly forces and critical infrastructure from aerial attacks. By detecting and engaging hostile aircraft, missiles, or other aerial threats, air defense systems ensure the safety of ground forces, military installations, and civilian populations.

Considering the other choices, conducting offensive air strikes pertains to offensive operations rather than a defensive posture. Providing intelligence on enemy positions is more aligned with reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering operations, while engaging in land warfare strategies focuses on ground combat tactics. In contrast, air defense specifically emphasizes the proactive measures required to thwart airborne threats, which is why intercepting and neutralizing those threats stands as the foundational goal in the realm of air operations.