Understanding the Link between Center of Gravity and Mission Accomplishment
Abstract
During the past decade there has been a proliferation of literature on effective methodologies to identify and neutralize, weaken, or destroy a center of gravity (COG). However, understanding and applying the COG concept remains problematic. This article examines the link between mission accomplishment at the operational level of war and neutralizing, weakening, or destroying a COG. It does this by exploring four linked propositions: 1) Mission accomplishment at the operational level is the Department of Defense's contribution to a strategic end state in war. Specifically, mission accomplishment is achieved when a military force imposes its will on an adversary. 2) Mission accomplishment can be achieved either by forcing an adversary to change his intentions or by eliminating an adversary's ability to resist imposition of will. 3) Neutralization or destruction of an adversary capability may have no behavioral effect on an adversary leader (no change of intentions). 4) An adversary decides to change intentions as a result of situational awareness. However, joint doctrine does not adequately acknowledge this cause-and-effect relationship; in fact, it advocates neutralization of the means by which an adversary obtains situational awareness.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2007
- Accession Number
- ADA515587
Entities
People
- Robert C. Coon
- William G. Pierce
Organizations
- United States Army War College