Which of the following best defines the JADO competition continuum?

The JADO (Joint All-Domain Operations) competition continuum is best defined by the stages of cooperation, competition, and armed conflict, as captured in the correct answer. This framework provides a nuanced understanding of the various states of interaction between entities, particularly in a military context.

Cooperation refers to efforts made to work together towards common goals, which can include partnerships and alliances. Competition involves strategic actions taken to gain advantage or assert influence without resorting to armed conflict, reflecting the realities of geopolitical tensions where military power plays a significant role. The final stage, armed conflict, represents the extreme end of this continuum where military forces engage in combat.

This triad effectively captures the dynamic nature of international relations and the spectrum of military operations, aligning with the doctrinal understanding of how the U.S. and allied forces approach potential adversaries in a holistic manner that considers both cooperative and competitive elements before resorting to direct military engagement.