Исходя из определения, приведенного в полном тексте исходника:

Attacking the adversary's ability to l.aundt missUes, an approach called "left-of-launch"
operations, is one measure a Combatant Commander may take to defeat ballistic and cruise
missiles. Other measures include active defenses and mitigation (e.g., resiliency, ha:rdenin&
dispersal).
...
Left-of-lawlch actions may be undertaken in an attempt to prevent missile launebes before
CODflict begins (pre-conflict) or after conflict has begun. Any decision to undertake pre-conflict
left-of-launch operations that would constitute a use-of.foJ:"Ce would require thorough
examination as such a decision likely would require the President's approval as an exercise of
tbe right of national or collective self-defense under international law.
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