Final answer:
The 'gap' between required resources and those apportioned to a combatant commander refers to the shortfall they face despite strategic planning, emphasizing the need for adopting strategic superiority to win conflicts.
Step-by-step explanation:
The difference between required resources and those apportioned to a combatant commander (CCDR) could be described as a 'gap' or 'shortfall'. This gap represents the disparity between the strategic plans and the actual resources allocated for the fulfillment of a combatant commander's objectives. Despite their ability to form long-term strategic plans and recognizing threats to global order, combatant commanders must prioritize winning conflicts with the available resources. Therefore, when resources are insufficient, the CCDR must find ways to maximize effectiveness within these limitations, often emphasizing force application or strategic superiority to control vital areas or resources in the face of global competition.