Which capability is focused on analyzing and protecting critical information from adversaries?

The focus of Operations Security (OPSEC) is on safeguarding critical information from adversaries. This capability involves identifying and protecting sensitive information that could be exploited by adversaries to gain an advantage. OPSEC emphasizes the need to assess what information is critical, how that information may be inadvertently revealed, and implementing measures to prevent unauthorized access to it. The primary goal is to reduce the risk of adversaries being able to predict friendly actions based on the information they acquire.

In the context of military operations, critically analyzing what information is essential and implementing security measures is foundational to maintaining operational security. This is distinct from Military Deception (MILDEC), which aims to mislead adversaries through misinformation, or Military Information Support Operations (MISO), which focuses on communication strategies to influence populations. Information Operations (IO) encompasses a broader spectrum of actions, including both OPSEC and MILDEC, but OPSEC specifically hones in on the protection of critical information.