Which principle ensures that all efforts in military operations are directed towards a common objective?

The principle that ensures all efforts in military operations are directed towards a common objective is known as Unity of Command. This principle emphasizes the importance of having a single commander responsible for a specific mission or operation, allowing for clear lines of authority, accountability, and communication. When all actions and resources are coordinated under one command structure, it fosters more effective decision-making and eliminates confusion regarding objectives and responsibilities.

By instituting Unity of Command, military organizations can efficiently align their operations and ensure that all personnel are working towards the same goals. This cohesion leads to more synchronized tactics and strategies, improving overall mission effectiveness.

In contrast, decentralization involves delegating authority to lower levels of command, which, while beneficial in certain contexts, could lead to disparate efforts that may not align with a single objective. Collaboration refers to working together, but it may lack the directive and authoritative element that Unity of Command provides. Consolidation generally pertains to the merging of resources or units and does not specifically address the alignment of efforts towards a common goal as effectively as Unity of Command does.