What does the color blue represent on map overlays?

The color blue on map overlays typically represents friendly forces in military mapping conventions. This standard is critical for effective communication and coordination during operations, as it allows individuals to quickly identify which units are allies and can be trusted for joint maneuvers or operations. By using blue to designate friendly forces, it helps to prevent confusion and potential friendly fire incidents in complex environments where multiple units may be operating in proximity to each other.

Understanding this color code is essential for tactical planning and situational awareness in the field, ensuring that all personnel can recognize their friendly units at a glance. This color-coding system helps streamline decision-making processes during missions and enhances overall operational effectiveness. Other colors on the map serve different functions, such as annotating enemy positions, boundaries, or hazardous areas, further aiding personnel in understanding the combat environment.