What characteristic of the defense allows the defender to apply overwhelming combat power effectively?

The characteristic of the defense that allows the defender to apply overwhelming combat power effectively is mass and concentration. In a defensive operation, concentration refers to the ability of the defending forces to gather their resources and firepower in a specific area to create a decisive advantage over the enemy. By concentrating combat power, defenders can maximize the effectiveness of their weapons systems and forces at the critical point of the attack, overwhelming the enemy with superior fire and maneuver capabilities.

Mass enables the defender to have enough personnel and equipment present to not only absorb the initial assault from the attacker but also to strike back effectively. This concept is central to defensive tactics, where the goal is to use the available forces to create a strong point that can halt or repel enemy advances. When these two elements—mass and concentration—are effectively utilized, a defender can turn the tide of battle, inflicting significant damage on attacking forces while minimizing their own losses.