Which type of operations takes priority when friendly forces initiate hostilities or when the enemy's air attack is nullified?

The focus of the question is on operations that take precedence once friendly forces engage the enemy or neutralize an adversary's air assault. Offensive Counterair (OCA) operations are designed to destroy or degrade enemy air capabilities before they can be effectively employed against friendly forces.

When friendly forces initiate hostilities, their primary goal is to achieve air superiority and reduce the effectiveness of enemy air operations. OCA operations prioritize striking enemy air defenses and platforms to ensure a favorable operational environment for friendly operations.

In the context of the question, if an enemy's air attack is nullified, the next logical step is to ensure that the enemy cannot regenerate those capabilities. Hence, OCA operations become paramount at that moment. They focus on proactive measures to cripple the enemy's air capabilities rather than solely defending against potential threats, which is the primary focus of Defensive Counterair (DCA) operations.

Understanding this prioritization is essential for operational decision-making within air operations, as it ensures the effectiveness and safety of friendly forces in any engagement.