Theater of Operations
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theater of operations
[′thē·ə·dər əv ‚äp·ə′rā·shənz]Theater of Operations
that part of a continent (including coastal waters, inland seas, and air space) or an ocean (including islands, adjoining seas, coastal areas, and air space) within which military operations are conducted. It includes several strategic axes and areas (ocean zones and naval districts).
The nature and extent of a theater of operations are established by the military and political leaders of each state on the basis of the strategic aims of a general war plan and an analysis of political, economic, geographic, and military factors. The extent of a theater of operations includes the territories of the theater country and of the enemy. Continental theaters of operations during World War II (1939–45) ranged in size from 300 to 600 km along the front and from 800 to 1,000 km and more in depth. The role and significance of these areas changed with the changing conditions of the military and political situation.
Of great significance for the operations of troops or naval forces is the preparation of theaters of operations in accordance with a definite plan developed during peace time and perfected in the course of war. Among the basic elements to be considered in the preparation of a theater of operations are the development of communications, the construction of airfields, and the preparation by engineers of the areas where antiaircraft equipment, troops, rear bases and supply stations, control posts, and communications centers may be located.
N. N. FOMIN