It's Oh-Dark Thirty. Do You Know Where Your Enemy Is. The Importance of Datums When Locating Your Enemy

摘要

The proper use of geographic coordinates (usually latitude, longitude and elevation) in combat operations is fundamental to mission success, especially on today's modern battlefield. Yet recent history suggests the military has problems identifying, disseminating, and using geographic coordinates. Why is confusion with this crucial concept frequently the source of failure during warfare and how can we better prepare soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines to eliminate confusion over geographic coordinates. A standard format for geographic coordinates which includes the datum to which they are referenced would eliminate problems with coordinates at all levels of the battlefield, from the command post to the front.