Which of the following is NOT one of the 3 echelons of defense?

The Covert Operations Area is not one of the traditional echelons of defense in military strategy. The three recognized echelons of defense typically include the Security Area, Forward Defensive Area (FDA), and Reserve Area.

The Security Area serves as the first line of defense, providing early warning and initial engagement with an enemy, while the Forward Defensive Area is where the main combat operations are conducted against the enemy forces. The Reserve Area is designated for forces that can be deployed as needed to reinforce or exploit the successes of the forward units.

Covert Operations are generally associated with clandestine activities that focus on intelligence-gathering, sabotage, or special operations, rather than being a distinct echelon in defensive arrangements. Understanding the roles and structures within a defense framework is crucial for successful operational planning and implementation.