What is the type of defensive operation that focuses on denying enemy access to specific terrain?

The type of defensive operation that focuses on denying enemy access to specific terrain is best described as Area Defense. This approach is designed to protect a specified area and involves positioning forces to deny the enemy access to that area, thereby maintaining control over it.

In an Area Defense, focus is placed not just on holding ground, but also on using the terrain to strategic advantage, utilizing obstacles and natural features to complicate the enemy’s movement and operations. By effectively controlling an area, the defending force can deter enemy advances and protect critical assets.

The other options, while they sound related, do not capture the specific intent of denying access to terrain as effectively as Area Defense does. For example, Terrain Denial might imply a broader strategy of preventing access without the specific focus on an operational area. Specified Defense seems to imply a limited defensive mission without the comprehensive control aspect. Terrain Defense could potentially be confused with general strategies focused on surface area rather than specific enemy denial. Thus, Area Defense encompasses all the elements needed to effectively deny enemy access to key pieces of terrain.