What does the principle of "economy of force" refer to?

The principle of "economy of force" refers to the effective management and allocation of resources during military operations. This principle emphasizes that a commander must balance the distribution of combat power to ensure that forces are used efficiently and effectively. Rather than committing all available resources to one area or task, the commander is encouraged to allocate them according to priorities, achieving a greater overall effectiveness. This approach allows for maintaining sufficient strength across multiple fronts while still ensuring that critical missions receive the necessary focus and power.

In context, it ensures that resources—such as personnel, equipment, and firepower—are not wasted on low-priority efforts, which can weaken an operation's overall effectiveness. The importance of thoughtful distribution of assets is why the principle of "economy of force" is fundamental to tactical decision-making, as it promotes resource management and reinforces the effectiveness of operations.