What is the principle of war that ensures concentration of effort for every objective under one responsible commander?

The principle of war that ensures concentration of effort for every objective under one responsible commander is unity of command. This principle emphasizes the importance of having a single commanding authority that is ultimately responsible for all forces involved in an operation. By consolidating command, unity of command facilitates clear communication, coherent strategy, and coordinated efforts towards achieving a common goal. It minimizes confusion and conflict between different units and allows for efficient resource allocation, ultimately leading to more effective military operations.

In military operations, where nearly every decision can significantly affect the outcome, having a singular command structure ensures that all elements of the mission are aligned and working towards the same objectives. This creates a unified approach to achieving operational goals, enhancing effectiveness in the field.

In contrast, other principles of war, such as mass, focus on the concentration of combat power at the decisive moment and location, surprise aims to catch the enemy off-guard to gain an advantage, and flexibility refers to the ability to adapt and change tactics in response to the dynamics of the battlefield. While all are important in their own right, none encapsulate the specific concept of centralized command necessary for ensuring cohesive focus under one leader, which is why unity of command is pivotal in military strategy.