Definition
Deconfliction is the set of channels, protocols, and procedures used by militaries operating in the same theatre — including hostile or adversarial ones — to reduce the risk of unintended engagement. It includes hotlines, designated airspaces and corridors, advance notification of operations, and liaison officers.
Why this matters when reading conflict news
When deconfliction lines exist, friendly-fire and accidental escalation incidents are less likely. When they break, the next incident is harder to read as accident vs intent.