What major operation took place between June 1948 and September 1949?

The Berlin Airlift was a significant operation that occurred between June 1948 and September 1949, responding to the Soviet blockade of West Berlin. Following World War II, Berlin was divided into East and West, with the latter being controlled by Western Allies. In an attempt to consolidate power and push out Western influence, the Soviet Union blocked all ground access to West Berlin.

In response, the United States and its allies initiated the Berlin Airlift, a massive logistical effort involving the air transport of food, fuel, and other essential supplies to the city's residents. Over the course of the airlift, which lasted for nearly 15 months, planes delivered over 2 million tons of supplies, effectively sustaining the population of West Berlin and preventing a potential humanitarian crisis.

This operation exemplified the U.S. commitment to maintaining freedom in West Berlin amidst rising tensions of the Cold War, marking a pivotal moment in military aviation history that demonstrated the crucial role of airpower in modern conflict.

Other operations, such as those mentioned in the other choices, occurred in different contexts and periods, but they do not align with the specific timeframe and significance of the Berlin Airlift.