A Foundation for Operational Planning: The Concepts of Center of Gravity, Decisive Point, and the Culminating Point.

TL;DRAbstract

Commonly understood terms are the foundation for a uniform application of any doctrine. FM 100-5 Operations introduces classical military theory into contemporary U.S. Army doctrine. Appendix B, “Key Concepts of Operational Design,” defines the terms center of gravity and culminating point, notes that both concepts are “central to the design and conduct of major operations,” and encourages readers to consult classical and contemporary theory for more elaboration. Unfortunately, classical theory offers several interpretations of these terms and adds a third equally important concept. The purpose of this study is to illuminate linkage at the operational level between a center of gravity, decisive point, and culminating point in order to provide a clear understanding of these theoretical concepts and their use in the design of campaigns and major operations. The study uses the classical writings of Baron Henri Jomini and Carl v. Clausewitz to define center of gravity, decisive point, and

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