What does “military sealift” refer to?

Military sealift refers to the transportation of military forces and equipment using ships. This concept is critical to the overall logistics strategy of a nation's military, as it facilitates the movement of troops, vehicles, and supplies to where they are needed most, often across vast oceans and into operational theaters.

The use of sealift is essential in ensuring that the military can deploy and sustain forces efficiently, particularly during crises or conflicts. Operations can involve large cargo ships and specialized vessels to transport everything from ammunition to armored vehicles, making it a cornerstone of military logistics.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately encompass the definition or scope of military sealift. Air transportation of military supplies, while crucial, does not fall under the umbrella of sealift as it pertains specifically to maritime operations. Similarly, a logistics strategy exclusive to naval bases overlooks the broader application of military sealift across various theaters. Lastly, shipping non-military goods during wartime does not represent the military-focused logistics intent behind sealift operations.