What does AOA mean in UNCLASSIFIED

An AOA must meet the operational requirements of the mission, and may be as small as several square kilometers or as large as thousands of square kilometers.

The selection of an AOA is usually impacted by factors such as prevailing conditions, enemy strength and disposition, terrain, logistics support capability, availability of airfields and naval anchorages, etc. It is normally determined by the commander exercising tactical control over the operation.

When selecting an AOA, considerations such as tides, currents, navigable waters, weather conditions (for amphibious operations), safety of navigation routes and anchorage sites should all be included. Additionally, oceanographic data such as water depth around approach channels should also be considered to support safe navigation in the area.

The duration that troops remain in an AOA depends on the nature of their mission and objectives. Generally speaking troops are likely to remain for 1-2 weeks until completion or relocation to another area is required.

Activities taking place within an AOA include but are not limited to landing operations; reinforcing forces sent from shore bases; logistic functions such as unloading supplies; marshalling areas for embarkation and debarkation; refueling points; harbor defense systems; permission for enemy vessels surrendering nearby; intelligence operations.

Vessel traffic management in Amphibious Operation Areas involves additional safety measures compared to those seen in regular maritime traffic management due to the high risk posed by combat activities and potential interference with friendly vessels. To ensure safe navigation at these locations additional regulations cover topics such as speed limits and communication protocols amongst vessels that are active inside the AOA.

Technological solutions for monitoring vessel activity focus on enforcing compliance with safety regulations through methods such as Maritime Automatic Identification System (AIS). Additionally Remote Access Monitoring can provide commanders with real time visibility over vessels entering or exiting AoAs allowing them to make better informed decisions when managing missions occurring inside these areas.