Center of Gravity: Determination, Analysis, and Application

Abstract

Abstract : The design and conduct of campaigns and major operations begins with defining the center of gravity. Center of gravity determination is essential for maintaining focus on goals and aims, for the proper allocation and usage of military resources, for maximizing the effectiveness of plans, and for denying the enemy the achievement of his aims. Correctly identifying the center of gravity is critical to the success or failure of military campaigns. This study offers a method for determining the center of gravity of any entity or actor, friendly or enemy; for analyzing campaign options; and for applying center of gravity determinations to the planning and execution of the campaign. This study is the result of two years research by senior experts and case studies performed by Army War College students from all Services. The resulting model is not only robust and flexible, but it is also simple enough for any strategic planner or student of the art of war to use in learning about center of gravity concepts and processes. As Clausewitz has said, Everything in war is very simple, but the simplest thing is difficult. This phrase applies to Clausewitz and his rendition of On War as well. The concept of Center of Gravity is so simple, yet the faculty of the Army War College can debate its meaning for years, the U.S. military can interpret it to mean different things, military forces throughout the world can understand the idea in different ways. Clearly the center of gravity determination is a controversial topic for many reasons. Among them is the fact that each Service has a different view of what constitutes a center of gravity, because each Service has a different perspective of the battlefield. On the question of is there one center of gravity or multiple centers of gravity, this model may violate current views of doctrine. The authors have chosen one view and that is reflected in the model.