How is 'center of gravity' used in enemy analysis under METT-TC?

• A. Identifies enemy strength sources to target, guiding decisive actions and corresponding ROE clarifications.
• B. Represents the most numerous location of enemy troops.
• C. Is a measure of supply lines alone.
• D. Is not used in METT-TC.

Answer: (A)

Center of gravity analysis in METT-TC focuses on identifying the enemy’s source of power—the point whose disruption would most degrade their ability to fight and their will to resist. By locating that leverage point, planners shape decisive actions that, if executed, produce the greatest strategic effect. This approach also informs ROE: understanding where the CoG lies helps determine what actions are legitimate and necessary to strike at that core capability or will, while constraining operations to lawful, proportionate responses. In practice, you’re not just chasing the largest force or a single supply route; you’re aiming at the aspect that sustains the enemy’s overall combat power, so that targeted actions yield the most significant impact with appropriately scoped authorization. For example, if the enemy’s CoG is their command-and-control network, targeting key nodes can disrupt coordination and shorten the fight, with ROE guiding the specific force and methods that are permissible in doing so.