JP 3-0, page 158

Chapter V V-52 JP 3-0 exposed over a larger operational area. Linkup operations, particularly those involving vertical envelopments, require extensive planning and preparation. The potential for fratricide increases due to the fluid nature of the nonlinear operational area and the changing disposition of attacking and defending forces. The presence of noncombatants in the operational area further complicates operations. (b) During nonlinear defensive operations, defenders focus on destroying enemy forces, even if it means losing physical contact with other friendly units. Successful nonlinear defenses require all friendly commanders to understand the JFCs intent and maintain a common operational picture (COP). Noncontiguous defenses are generally mobile defenses; however, some subordinate units may conduct area defenses to hold key terrain or canalize attackers into engagement areas. Nonlinear defenses place a premium on reconnaissance and surveillance to maintain contact with the enemy, produce relevant information, and develop and maintain a COP. The defending force focuses almost exclusively on defeating the enemy force rather than retaining large areas. Although less challenging than in offensive operations, LOC and sustainment security will still be a test and may require allocation of combat forces to protect LOCs and other high risk functions or bases. The JFC must ensure that clear command relationships are established to properly account for the added challenges to base, base cluster, and LOC security. (3) Areas of Operations and Linear/Nonlinear Operations (a) General. JFCs consider incorporating combinations of contiguous and noncontiguous AOs with linear and nonlinear operations as they conduct operational design. They choose the combination that fits the operational environment and the purpose of the operation. Association of contiguous and noncontiguous AOs with linear and nonlinear operations creates the four combinations in Figure V-5. (b) Linear Operations in Contiguous AOs. Linear operations in contiguous AOs (upper left-hand pane in Figure V-5) typify sustained offensive and defensive operations against powerful, echeloned, and symmetrically organized forces. The contiguous areas and continuous FLOT focus combat power and protect sustainment functions. (c) Linear Operations in Noncontiguous AOs. The upper right-hand pane of Figure V-5 depicts a JFC’s operational area with subordinate component commanders conducting linear operations in noncontiguous AOs. In this case, the JFC retains responsibility for that portion of the operational area outside the subordinate commanders’ AOs.