What is the primary role of maritime patrol aircraft?

The primary role of maritime patrol aircraft is centered around surveillance, reconnaissance, and anti-submarine warfare. These aircraft are specifically designed to monitor vast areas of ocean for military activities, ensure maritime security, and provide critical intelligence to naval forces. Their advanced sensors and radar systems allow them to detect submarines, ships, and other potential threats from a significant distance, greatly enhancing situational awareness for naval operations.

Additionally, these aircraft can carry out anti-submarine warfare missions, which involve locating and potentially engaging enemy submarines using various methods, including dropping depth charges or deploying torpedoes. This capability is vital for protecting naval vessels and maintaining control over maritime environments.

In contrast, while direct combat with enemy ships might involve other types of military assets, maritime patrol aircraft are not primarily designed for such engagements. Transporting troops and supplies is typically the role of transport aircraft or helicopters dedicated to logistics, and managing naval supply chains is handled by logistical units and surface ships rather than aircraft. Thus, the focus of maritime patrol aircraft on surveillance and reconnaissance, combined with their anti-submarine capabilities, solidifies option B as the correct answer.