I think I get it.
Calan,  when I play I see these as mission types
1.  Base Defense - Local (first response, base about to come under attack)
Air or Ground
2.  Base Defense - Under heavy attack (requires response from neighboring base to kill CAP and and secure base)
Air or Ground
3.  Base Defense - Goon sweep - basically kill incoming C-47s to prevent or stall capture until reinforcements arrive.
4.  Premptive strike (defense) - hit likely enemy base being used to launch attacks, kill troops and ord.
5. Offensive Strike - soften up bases for capture
6.  NOE offensive strike
7. Base Capture
8.  NOE Base Capture
9.  Blow everything up, 
10. Vultch base prep