Question

Counterair is a mission that integrates offensive and defensive operations to attain and maintain a desired degree of air superiority. Air control describes a level of influence in the air domain relative to that of an adversary, and is categorized as parity, superiority, or supremacy. What does parity mean?

1) A level of influence in the air domain relative to that of an adversary
2) A desired degree of air superiority
3) A mission that integrates offensive and defensive operations
4) Cannot be determined

Answer 1

Parity, in the context of air control, refers to a relatively balanced state without a clear advantage or dominance in the air domain.

Step-by-step explanation:

Parity, in the context of air control, refers to a level of influence in the air domain relative to that of an adversary. It means that both sides have an equal strength and capability in terms of air power. Parity is a state where neither side has a clear advantage or dominance in the air domain.

In World War I, for example, parity was often observed in the early stages of the conflict when both sides were still developing their air forces and learning how to effectively engage in aerial combat. As the war progressed, certain individuals emerged as aces, showcasing superior skills and shooting down enemy planes, thereby establishing air superiority for their side.

To summarize, parity in air control means having a similar level of influence in the air domain compared to the adversary, indicating a relatively balanced state without a clear advantage or dominance.