What does the 'Center of Gravity' refer to in Operational Art?

The concept of 'Center of Gravity' in operational art is fundamentally about identifying and understanding the primary source of strength of a force or a system. This term, often attributed to military theorist Carl von Clausewitz, refers to the source that provides the force with its cohesion, power, and resilience, which can include physical resources, influential leaders, or key capabilities. Understanding this center allows military planners to focus their efforts on either protecting their own center of gravity or neutralizing that of the adversary to achieve success in operations.

In contrast, identifying enemy weaknesses, strategic objectives of allies, or the impacts of international policies are important considerations in operational planning, but they do not encapsulate the essence of the Center of Gravity concept as it pertains to operational art. Rather, these aspects may be viewed as components of the broader strategic environment in which the center of gravity is located and operates.