In the context of defense, what is meant by 'economy of force'?

'Economy of force' refers to the strategic approach of prioritizing resources and directing them towards the areas of greatest need during defensive operations. This concept is rooted in the efficient and effective allocation of limited resources to achieve maximum impact. By concentrating efforts where they can make a significant difference, such as in vulnerable sectors of the defense or areas where the enemy is expected to attack, commanders can maintain a strong defensive posture without diluting their strength across the entire battlefield.

This principle is crucial because it allows for a balanced defense that can respond dynamically to threats, maximizing the effectiveness of available forces. Instead of committing overwhelming force to every potential point of conflict, which can be unsustainable and may lead to vulnerabilities, 'economy of force' ensures that the most critical areas are protected adequately while optimizing the overall defensive capability.