Which of the following is a type of reconnaissance patrol?

The correct choice identified is area patrol. An area patrol specifically aims to gather information about a particular location. This type of reconnaissance patrol focuses on observing the terrain, identifying enemy positions, and monitoring troop movements within a designated area. Area patrols are essential for ensuring situational awareness and enabling command decisions, as they help to provide a clearer picture of the operational environment.

While other types of patrols exist, such as combat patrols, which are primarily offensive and intended to engage the enemy, and surveillance patrols, which may focus on observing a target discreetly over time, the defining feature of an area patrol is its emphasis on investigating and reporting on specific geographical areas. Stealth patrols, while they imply a level of covert operation, do not specifically characterize a recognized standard type of reconnaissance patrol in military terminology.