Re-examining the center of gravity Theoretical and structural analysis of the concept

The center of gravity concept is one of contemporary military science’s fundamental yet highly controversial pillars. Although, over the past decades, the center of gravity has become the modus operandi of the planning and conduct of (major) military operations in a number of armed forces, the conce...

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Published inRevista científica "General José María Córdova." Vol. 20; no. 40; pp. 1025 - 1044
Main Author Šlebir, Miha
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Escuela Militar de Cadetes "General José María Córdova" 01.10.2022
Subjects
SOCIAL SCIENCES, INTERDISCIPLINARY
center of gravity
Schwerpunkt
military concepts
operational art
main effort
esfuerzo principal
centro de gravedad
conceptos militares
estrategia
Schwerpunkt, strategy
arte operacional
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ISSN1900-6586
2500-7645
2500-7645
DOI10.21830/19006586.979

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Summary:The center of gravity concept is one of contemporary military science’s fundamental yet highly controversial pillars. Although, over the past decades, the center of gravity has become the modus operandi of the planning and conduct of (major) military operations in a number of armed forces, the concept remains insufficiently understood and is often poorly applied in practice. In this light, we have sought to improve its theoretical comprehension by identifying the conceptual dimensions that the most influential authors commonly highlight. Using the structural method for the concept analysis, we have identified seven entities frequently understood as the potential centers of gravity. These are: (1) fielded military, (2) leadership, (3) industry, (4) infrastructure, (5) population, (6) public opinion, and (7) ideology.
ISSN:1900-6586
2500-7645
2500-7645
DOI:10.21830/19006586.979