What is the primary purpose of the Phalanx CIWS?

The primary purpose of the Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapon System) is to serve as a last line of defense against incoming threats, such as anti-ship missiles and aircraft. This system is designed to provide close-range protection for naval vessels. It utilizes a rapid-fire, radar-guided gun to track and engage targets with high accuracy, ensuring that ships can defend themselves effectively in a situation where other defense systems might fail.

While the other choices represent various military operations and capabilities, they do not align with the specific function of the Phalanx CIWS. For instance, land attack operations pertain to offensive measures targeting ground forces or installations, which is not the role of the Phalanx. Similarly, aircraft launching involves systems responsible for launching aircraft from a carrier or base, while submarine detection pertains to technology used for identifying and tracking submarines. None of these functions relate to the close-in defense capabilities that the Phalanx CIWS provides.