Line of communication

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A line of communication (or communications) is the route that connects an operating military unit with its supply base. Supplies and reinforcements are transported along the line of communication, therefore a secure and open line of communication is vital for any military force to continue to operate effectively.

The interruption of a unit's line of communication is therefore an important strategic goal for opposing forces.
Some notable examples:

• Napoleons Invasion of Russia
• the encirclement of 6th Army in the Battle of Stalingrad

The standard military abbreviation is LOC or SLOC for Sea line of communication or ALOC for Air line of communication.

[edit] Sources

• The Oxford Essential Dictionary of the U.S. Military. Copyright © 2001, 2002 by Oxford University Press
• US Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Words