Final answer:
The operational phase involving joint and multinational operations engages multiple nations' military forces in common goals, such as NATO's mission in Afghanistan, and includes modern warfare elements like cyber and irregular warfare aspects.
Step-by-step explanation:
The operational phase being described is typically comprised of joint and multinational operations, which include normal routine military activities. These operations are often seen in contexts where military forces from multiple nations, such as those involved in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), are working together towards a common goal. For example, in 2006, NATO took over control in Afghanistan, facing the complexities of competing groups and difficult terrain.
The hybrid warfare paradigm that has surfaced since the early 21st century further elaborates on the complexity of military engagements, involving not just conventional battles but also political, irregular, and cyber warfare elements. These developments in military strategy emphasize the multi-faceted nature of operations that encompass a wide range of activities and coordination between different military branches and allied nations.