Which type of minefield is intended to control shipping in defense of sea communications?

Which type of minefield is intended to control shipping in defense of sea communications?

• A. Offensive Minefield
• B. Defensive Minefield
• C. Protective Minefield
• D. None of the above

Answer: (B)

The key idea is how minefields are classified by their purpose. A defensive minefield is laid to protect and defend sea lines of communication, shaping enemy movement to safeguard essential routes for friendly ships. By restricting or channeling enemy shipping, it helps ensure that the vital routes remain open for defense and logistics. The phrase “in defense of sea communications” points to using mines to guard and preserve these routes, not to strike at the enemy or to shield a single asset. That’s why this type best fits the described purpose. Offensive minefields aim to disrupt enemy movement, and protective minefields shield a specific area rather than manage overall shipping routes.

The key idea is how minefields are classified by their purpose. A defensive minefield is laid to protect and defend sea lines of communication, shaping enemy movement to safeguard essential routes for friendly ships. By restricting or channeling enemy shipping, it helps ensure that the vital routes remain open for defense and logistics. The phrase “in defense of sea communications” points to using mines to guard and preserve these routes, not to strike at the enemy or to shield a single asset. That’s why this type best fits the described purpose. Offensive minefields aim to disrupt enemy movement, and protective minefields shield a specific area rather than manage overall shipping routes.