What does CAP mean?

• A. Combat Air Patrol
• B. Combat Air Patrol Unit
• C. Combat Air Patrol Station
• D. Civil Air Patrol Station

Answer: (B)

CAP stands for Combat Air Patrol, a mission aimed at defending airspace and providing surveillance. In many aviation contexts, especially in briefs and operational notes, CAP is used to refer to the unit assigned to perform that patrol—the Combat Air Patrol Unit. This terminology emphasizes who is on station and what assets are committed, which is crucial for planning, coordination, and deconfliction. The other options point to the mission itself (Combat Air Patrol), a civilian organization (Civil Air Patrol), or a location-based idea (a station) rather than the executing element, so the unit designation best fits the context of identifying who is conducting the patrol.