JP 3-0, page 141

Joint Operations Across the Range of Military Operations V-35 11. The Balance of Offense, Defense, and Stability Operations a. Combat missions and tasks can vary widely depending on context of the operation and the objective. Most combat operations will require the commander to balance offensive, defensive, and stability operations. This is particularly evident in a campaign or operation, where combat occurs during several phases and stability operations may occur throughout the campaign or operation. b. Offensive and Defensive Operations. Major operations and campaigns, whether or not they involve large-scale combat, normally will include some level of both offense and defense (including interdiction, maneuver, forcible entry, fire support, counterair, CND, base defense, etc.). Although defense may be the stronger force posture, it is the offense that is normally decisive in combat. In striving to achieve military strategic objectives quickly and at the least cost, JFCs normally will seek the earliest opportunity to conduct decisive offensive operations. Nevertheless, during sustained offensive operations, selected elements of the joint force may need to pause, defend, resupply, or reconstitute, while other forces continue the attack. Further, force protection includes certain defensive measures that are required throughout each joint operation or campaign phase. Forces at all levels within the joint force must possess the agility to rapidly transition between offense and defense and vice versa. The relationship between offense and defense, then, is a complementary one. Defensive operations enable JFCs to conduct or prepare for decisive offensive operations. c. Stability Operations. These missions, tasks, and activities seek to maintain or reestablish a safe and secure environment and provide essential governmental services, emergency infrastructure reconstruction, or humanitarian relief. Many of these missions and tasks are the essence of CMO. To achieve the desired military end state and conclude the operations successfully, JFCs must integrate and synchronize stability operations with other operations (offense and defense) within each major operation or campaign phase. Stability operations support USG stabilization efforts and contribute to USG initiatives to build partnerships. These initiatives set the conditions for interaction with partner, competitor, or adversary leaders, military forces, or relevant populations by developing and presenting information and conducting activities to affect their perceptions, will, behavior, and capabilities. The JFC will likely conduct them in coordination with interorganizational partners and the private sector in support of HN authorities. Since stability operations are conducted outside the United States, DOD provides similar support to US civil authorities through CS operations. For further guidance on stability operations, refer to JP 3-07, Stability Operations. d. Balance and Simultaneity (1) Commanders strive to apply the many dimensions of military power simultaneously across the depth, breadth, and height of the operational area. This applies in all combat operations, but is the most extensive in a campaign. Consequently, JFCs normally achieve concentration in some areas or in specific functions and require economy of force in others. However, plans for major operations and campaigns require