antilanding

Antilanding is a term used to describe defensive measures intended to prevent or disrupt an adversary’s attempt to land troops, equipment, or supplies on a coastline or other designated landing zone. The concept appears in military doctrine, historical analyses, and wargaming literature, though the term is not universally standardized. In general, antilanding emphasizes denial of landing operations rather than control of landings after they occur.

Methods associated with antilanding span a range of physical, operational, and electronic means. Physical obstacles and fortifications, coastal minefields, and other barriers aim to deter or slow landings. Naval and air interdiction can disrupt transport and movement toward landing sites, while coastal artillery and missile systems provide protective fire against amphibious approaches. Electronic warfare and deception can mislead attackers about landing zones, timing, or scale. Rapid reinforcement of defensive positions, use of strongpoints, and coordinated multitier defenses are typical elements, along with patrols and surveillance to detect approaching landings early.

Historically, coastal defenses and fortified shorelines during the 20th century illustrate antilanding concepts, where defenders sought to deny or complicate amphibious operations. In contemporary contexts, antilanding intersects with broader military aims such as anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategies, maritime security, and disaster-response planning where controlling entry points remains important. The term remains a descriptive label for an array of tactics designed to keep landing operations from succeeding.

See also: Amphibious warfare, Coastal defense, Beachhead, Anti-landing operations.