JP 3-0, page 81

Joint Functions III-29 (2) There are multiple ways to attain positional advantage. A naval expeditionary force with airpower, cruise missiles, and amphibious assault capability, within operational reach of an enemy’s COG, has positional advantage. In like manner, land and air expeditionary forces that are within operational reach of an enemy’s COG and have the means and opportunity to strike and maneuver on such a COG also have positional advantage. Maintaining full-spectrum superiority contributes to positional advantage by facilitating freedom of action. See Chapter V, “Joint Operations Across the Range of Military Operations,” paragraph 14.f, “Full-Spectrum Superiority.” (3) At all levels of war, successful maneuver requires not only fire and movement but also agility and versatility of thought, plans, operations, and organizations. It requires designating and then, if necessary, shifting the main effort and applying the principles of mass and economy of force. (a) At the strategic level, deploying units to and positioning units within an operational area are forms of maneuver if such movements seek to gain positional advantage. Strategic maneuver should place forces in position to begin the phases or major operations of a campaign. (b) At the operational level, maneuver is a means by which JFCs set the terms of battle by time and location, decline battle, or exploit existing situations. Operational maneuver usually takes large forces from a base of operations to an area where they are in position to achieve operational objectives. The objective for operational maneuver is usually a COG or decisive point. (4) JFCs should consider various ways and means to help maneuver forces attain positional advantage. For example, SOF may expose vulnerabilities through special reconnaissance and attack the enemy at tactical, operational, and strategic levels through direct action or using indigenous or surrogate forces. Additionally, the planning of CA and use of an effective IO program may minimize civilian interference with operations as well as the impact of military operations on the populace. 6. Protection a. The protection function focuses on preserving the joint force’s fighting potential in four primary ways. One way uses active defensive measures that protect the joint force, its information, its bases, necessary infrastructure, and LOCs from an enemy attack. Another way uses passive defensive measures that make friendly forces, systems, and facilities difficult to locate, strike, and destroy. Equally important is the application of technology and procedures to reduce the risk of fratricide. Finally, emergency management and response reduce the loss of personnel and capabilities due to accidents, health threats, and natural disasters. As the JFC’s mission requires, the protection function also extends beyond force protection to encompass protection of US noncombatants; the forces, systems, and civil infrastructure of friendly nations; and interorganizational partners. Protection capabilities apply domestically in the context of HD, CS, and emergency preparedness. b. The protection function encompasses a number of tasks, including: