Which principle is defined as limiting collateral damage and preventing the unnecessary use of force?

The principle that focuses on limiting collateral damage and preventing the unnecessary use of force is restraint. This principle emphasizes the moral and ethical responsibilities of military operations, urging forces to engage only when necessary and to minimize harm to non-combatants and civilian infrastructure. Restraint ensures that military actions are proportionate and justified, adhering to both legal standards and the values of the armed services. By practicing restraint, military leaders aim to maintain support from the local population and the international community, which can be crucial for long-term operational success.

The other principles, while important in their own right, do not specifically address the limitation of collateral damage and the unnecessary use of force. Maneuver focuses on the movement and positioning of forces to gain a tactical advantage; economy of force pertains to utilizing the minimum combat power necessary for a mission without overcommitting resources; and unity of command ensures cohesive and coordinated efforts among various units. Each plays a vital role in overall military strategy but does not directly address the ethical considerations inherent in the principle of restraint.