What is the primary purpose of Center of Gravity analysis?

The primary purpose of Center of Gravity (CoG) analysis is to assist Joint Force Commanders (JFCs) in understanding and evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of both friendly and adversary forces. By identifying the CoGs, JFCs can focus their resources and efforts on key elements that can decisively influence the outcome of military operations. This analysis helps to ascertain where to apply pressure or effort to achieve strategic objectives and can guide planning and decision-making processes.

In military strategy, understanding the Center of Gravity of an adversary allows commanders to anticipate potential vulnerabilities and devise effective courses of action that could exploit these weaknesses. Conversely, recognizing one's own CoG aids in protecting critical capabilities that are vital for success in engagement.

While developing contingency plans, analyzing environmental impacts, and setting tactical objectives are important components of military strategy and operations, they are not the primary goal of CoG analysis. CoG analysis specifically centers on comprehensively evaluating and comparing the strengths of all parties involved in a conflict, making it an essential tool for strategic planning and command-level decision making.