Updated 31. January 2025 by Sören Spieckermann
Strategy and tactics: Center of Gravity
The term “center of gravity ” originally comes from the military theory of the Prussian general Carl von Clausewitz and is used to describe the strategically decisive element (“center of all power and movement”) of an opposing force or conflict. It is the point or area on which the enemy’s ability to achieve its objectives depends.
Meanings in modern military practice:
1. Operational: The central target whose neutralization decisively weakens the opponent.
– Example: An important command and control point, supply lines or a specific elite unit.
2. Strategic: factors that support the political or military will of an opponent.
– Example: The support of the population, economic resources or diplomatic alliances.
3. Psychological: the morale or determination of an opposing party.
Target:
– Identifying and combating the “center of gravity” should turn the battle decisively in your favor by depriving the enemy of its ability to wage war effectively.
In modern conflicts, however, it can be difficult to define a clear center of gravity, especially in asymmetric warfare or operations against non-state actors.
Center of Gravity (CoG) in the tabletop game BattleTech: Alpha Strike
Der Begriff Center of Gravity (CoG) beschreibt in BattleTech Alpha Strike eine zentrale Komponente, von der der Erfolg deiner Streitmacht abhängt. Dies kann eine Einheit, eine spezifische Taktik, eine kritische Geländeformation oder ein Missionsziel sein. Die Identifikation und Nutzung von CoG-Elementen kann dir einen entscheidenden taktischen Vorteil verschaffen.
1 CoG as a key unit or group role
Some units or formations in Alpha Strike take on essential functions for the success of your mission.
– Heavy attack mechs:
Ein Atlas oder ein Warhammer kann im Zentrum deiner Formation stehen und durch hohe Feuerkraft und Panzerung das Rückgrat deines Angriffs bilden.
– Command Mechs:
Ein Mech mit Spezialfähigkeiten ( Z.B. C3 Computer, starkem indirekten Feuer) oder mit speziellen Pilotenfähigkeiten könnte als taktischer Koordinator fungieren und Boni (Special Abilities) für Einheiten bieten.
– Reconnaissance and support mechs:
A light mech like the Locust can be the “eye” of your force, opening up lines of sight on enemy units (spotter for indirect fire) or enabling flanking attacks.
2. Tactically decisive terrain points
Das Gelände spielt in Alpha Strike eine zentrale Rolle. Das Halten bestimmter Positionen kann über Sieg oder Niederlage entscheiden.
– Surveys:
Higher terrain offers better lines of sight and attack options for ranged units such as Longbows or Archers.
– Bottlenecks:
Narrow passages or corridors can be used to control enemy movements and prevent flank attacks.
– Cover:
Wälder, Hügel und Gebäude bieten Schutz vor Beschuss und erhöhen die Überlebensfähigkeit deiner Einheiten.
3. CoG due to strategic weaknesses of the opponent
The targeted elimination of key enemy components weakens his tactical options.
– Artillery or ranged combat units:
Destroying siege weapons such as the Long Tom or eliminating snipers/long-range mechs can drastically reduce enemy fire.
– Command and reconnaissance units:
By eliminating fast units such as the Raven or the Cicada, the opponent becomes “blind” and loses tactical advantages (indirect fire, flanking attacks, etc.).
– Supply units:
In Szenarien und Kampagnen mit Nachschubregeln kann das Zerstören von Konvois oder Versorgungsfahrzeugen und Depots den Gegner entscheidend schwächen.
Practical tips for applying the CoG principle
1. Defensive application:
– Place your key units so that they are difficult to reach. Use terrain and cover to protect them from attacks.
2. Offensive application:
– Concentrate firepower on enemy focal points. Consider whether it is more efficient to destroy a critical unit instead of dealing damage indiscriminately.
3. Flexibility:
– Adapt dynamically to the development of the game. CoG can change over the course of the match.
By consciously using Center of Gravity principles, you can improve your tactical decisions in Alpha Strike and make your game more efficient.
