defensive sea area

A sea area (usually including the approaches to and the waters of important ports, harbors, bays, or sounds) for the control and protection of shipping, for the safeguarding of defense installations bordering on waters of the areas, and for the provision of other security measures required within the specified areas. It does not extend seaward beyond territorial waters.

See the Introduction, Abbreviations and Pronunciation for further details.

(DOD) A sea area, usually including the approaches to and the waters of important ports, harbors, bays, or sounds, for the control and protection of shipping; for the safeguarding of defense installations bordering on waters of the areas; and for provision of other security measures required within the specified areas. It does not extend seaward beyond the territorial waters. See also maritime control area.