Which of the following best defines a "joint operation"?

A joint operation is best defined as military operations conducted by forces from multiple services in coordination to achieve a common objective. This definition captures the essence of joint operations, which requires the integration and cooperation of different branches of the military—such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps—working together to accomplish a specific goal.

Joint operations leverage the unique strengths and capabilities of each service, ensuring a more comprehensive approach to mission success. This collaboration is essential for addressing the complexities of modern warfare, where challenges often require a multifaceted response that cannot be provided by a single service alone. The interplay of different military branches allows for a more effective use of resources and increases operational efficiency.

In contrast, operations conducted solely by air forces do not meet the criteria for joint operations, as they lack the collaboration of multiple services. Similarly, operations that focus solely on diplomatic negotiations or humanitarian assistance do not fall under the definition of joint military operations, which emphasize coordinated efforts by various military branches directed towards achieving military objectives.