What color indicates populated areas on military maps?

The color that indicates populated areas on military maps is red. In military cartography, red is used to denote significant features such as populated areas, which include cities, towns, and other human settlements. This use of color helps soldiers and military planners quickly identify important locations on a map, facilitating strategic decision-making and operational planning.

In contrast, other colors on military maps serve different functions: black is commonly used for man-made structures or features, like roads and buildings; green often indicates vegetation, such as forests or grasslands; and brown typically represents contour lines or elevation features, indicating terrain relief. This color-coding system is essential for effective navigation and situational awareness in the field.