What is the definition of a decisive point in military operations?

A decisive point in military operations is defined as a geographic location or key event that offers a significant advantage to the commander and their forces, often leading to a strategic or tactical success. Recognizing and effectively exploiting decisive points can greatly influence the course of military operations, enabling commanders to apply pressure where the enemy is most vulnerable. This definition underscores the importance of understanding the terrain and the operational environment, as well as the timing of actions taken at these points.

While tactical maneuvers, intelligence reports, and logistical bases all play critical roles in the planning and execution of military operations, they do not encapsulate the specific nature of a decisive point. Tactical maneuvers are strategies used in battle, intelligence reports inform decision-making but do not themselves constitute a location or event, and logistical bases support operations but do not directly engage with the concept of influencing the battle's outcome or gaining a critical advantage at a specific time or place.