Map Reading
BASIC MAP READING
Introduction
Maps and their substitutes are of particular value to the military establishment. It is frequently necessary to identify ridges, valleys routes of movement, and other characteristics of a section of terrain that cannot be reconnoiter in advance. Plans for the future operations must be based on knowledge gained in part from maps their substitutes.
Therefore, as future member of the AFP, you must know how to use and read a map. It is mandatory for you to know the meaning and importance of a map. And apply the theories, principles and techniques that are considered essential in the total development of small unit leaders. One important fact to consider is that the finest map made in the world is practically useless the user knows how to read and use it.
MAP - is a geographical representation of the earth surface drawn to a scale in a flat plane.
IMPORTANCE OF MAP:
1. Used for strategic, tactical planning in all command.
2. Used to show the relative position on a certain given area.
3. Used to show accurate distance, location, best routes and key terrain features.
4. To avoid lost and keep alive.
CARE OF MAP:
Proper folding by:
1. Accordion folds or slit fold
2. Carry Maps in a waterproof pocket and use acetate to cover the Map.
3. Avoid drawing or improper marking to avoid confusion.
SECURITY OF MAPS:
1. Maps must not fail into unauthorized hand.
2. When in danger, destroy the map.
Categories and Uses of Military Maps The term Military Map includes all maps designed for use of Military authorities except aeronautics and hydrographic charts.
Scale – is expressed as a fraction and gives the ratio of map distance to ground distance.
1. Small scale – Maps at the scale of 1:600,000 and smaller are used for general planning for strategic studies at the high echelon.
2. Medium Scale – Maps at the larger than 1:600,000 but smaller than 1:75,000 are used for planning operations, including the movement and
Introduction
Maps and their substitutes are of particular value to the military establishment. It is frequently necessary to identify ridges, valleys routes of movement, and other characteristics of a section of terrain that cannot be reconnoiter in advance. Plans for the future operations must be based on knowledge gained in part from maps their substitutes.
Therefore, as future member of the AFP, you must know how to use and read a map. It is mandatory for you to know the meaning and importance of a map. And apply the theories, principles and techniques that are considered essential in the total development of small unit leaders. One important fact to consider is that the finest map made in the world is practically useless the user knows how to read and use it.
MAP - is a geographical representation of the earth surface drawn to a scale in a flat plane.
IMPORTANCE OF MAP:
1. Used for strategic, tactical planning in all command.
2. Used to show the relative position on a certain given area.
3. Used to show accurate distance, location, best routes and key terrain features.
4. To avoid lost and keep alive.
CARE OF MAP:
Proper folding by:
1. Accordion folds or slit fold
2. Carry Maps in a waterproof pocket and use acetate to cover the Map.
3. Avoid drawing or improper marking to avoid confusion.
SECURITY OF MAPS:
1. Maps must not fail into unauthorized hand.
2. When in danger, destroy the map.
Categories and Uses of Military Maps The term Military Map includes all maps designed for use of Military authorities except aeronautics and hydrographic charts.
Scale – is expressed as a fraction and gives the ratio of map distance to ground distance.
1. Small scale – Maps at the scale of 1:600,000 and smaller are used for general planning for strategic studies at the high echelon.
2. Medium Scale – Maps at the larger than 1:600,000 but smaller than 1:75,000 are used for planning operations, including the movement and