What defines a deployable combat support hospital (DCSH)?

A deployable combat support hospital (DCSH) is specifically designed to be a versatile and mobile medical facility that can be rapidly deployed to support military operations. The correct answer highlights that it can be both airlifted and transported over ground, which allows for flexibility in various operational environments. This capability is essential for responding to dynamic and often unpredictable conditions in combat zones or disaster areas, where immediate medical assistance is critical.

The DCSH is not limited to a single mode of transport, which enhances its utility in a wide range of scenarios. The design of a DCSH includes the necessary medical equipment and personnel to provide comprehensive care, thus differentiating it from fixed facilities or temporary setups that may not have the same level of readiness or capacity to operate in diverse environments.

The other options do not capture the full definition of a DCSH. For instance, a fixed medical facility on military bases lacks the mobility required for quick deployment in fast-changing situations. Likewise, a facility that is only supportable by air would not have the flexibility necessary for ground transport. Temporary tent setups, while capable of providing basic medical care, do not encompass the comprehensive services and operational readiness of a DCSH.