Which principle emphasizes avoiding excessive firepower on a single target?

The principle that emphasizes avoiding excessive firepower on a single target is focused on the concept of efficiency in resource allocation. Applying overwhelming firepower to a single target can lead to unnecessary expenditure of ammunition, resources, and operational capabilities, while also potentially causing collateral damage and risking the safety of friendly forces.

By adhering to the guideline of avoiding target overkill, commanders can maximize the effectiveness of their assets by ensuring they use appropriate levels of firepower to achieve the desired objective without squandering valuable resources. This principle encourages a balanced approach to engagement, where the goal is to use just enough force to neutralize a threat, allowing for better allocation of resources for future engagements and maintaining the overall effectiveness of operations.

The other principles focus on different aspects of military strategy and operations, but they do not specifically address the concern of using excessive force on a single target. For instance, mass fire effects refer to concentrating firepower to achieve a significant impact, which can sometimes inadvertently lead to overkill. Planning for withdrawal involves considerations for retreat rather than engagement tactics, and maintaining enemy contact emphasizes the importance of surveillance and situational awareness, which does not pertain directly to managing firepower effectively.