IOPS coordinates partnership in support of the AUC, contributing to strategic-level operational engagement, focusing on the planning and management of AU Peace Support Operations (PSOs), and strategic advice in this regard, delivered through IOPS component units OPAS and MSPS. The objective of this support is two-fold: first, to bolster and strengthen the capabilities of the AU to plan and manage its own independent PSOs; and second, to build a more effective UN-AU partnership in peace operations. IOPS provides expert advice and technical support to the AU in military and police operations, mine action, small arms and light weapons, human rights, security-related matters, and mission support planning in PSOs. IOPS contributes to technical support and capacity building for the operationalization of the Africa Standby Force (ASF), within the framework of the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and ongoing AU PSOs.