Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
Frequently mentioned problem was the inability to edit the digital geographical
data. Since the data are available in raster and vector formats, this issue has two
dimensions. Only the Geographic Service can edit the raster data; in case of the
vector data a user can only edit an extension. However, if the pilot himself edits a
map, there is a necessity of approval process, which currently has nothing to do with
the Geographic Service.
There was a suggestion to design a user map base: geographic data (populated
places)—simplified depending on the scale. The Geographic Service can ensure
that only for the Czech territory. At this moment there are four forms. 1:25,000
blocks of buildings, 1:100,000—reduced, 1:250,000 blocks of populated places,
1:250,000 wheels. Digital maps do not contain as much information as the paper
ones (e.g. missing names of some populated places). While performing tactical
tasks, such information may be missing. However, the truth is that there are
problems associated with the description of vector models. For instance the “anno-
tations” are not part of the analytical data. A flight map is not always tailored to suit
each individual or flight plan an important question is how pilots would like to
implement such a feature. The Geographic Service is not able to modify all maps
according to the needs of individual pilots or specific types of flights.
More than once there was a question whether the degradation to NATO stan-
dards, in case of some maps, is beneficial for us. Within the Czech Republic we do
not need these standards. However, by joining the Alliance the MGHO has com-
mitted to fulfil the obligations resulting from the NATO Geographic Policy. That
means providing the geographic support to units deployed in international peace-
keeping and humanitarian missions in both the development phase and during
operation at a mission site. This implies that all members of the Alliance use
standardized products in domestic operations, so when a pilot is operating outside
their home country they use products with which they are familiar. It would be
illogical to use one product on domestic territory and a different product beyond the
borders.
Symbols of populated places in the aeronautical charts are often rated very
negatively. The shape and size of towns and villages are important for a pilot,
such information supports orientation when flying at low altitudes. For example,
there are two villages, one of them is vast and more prominent in the landscape than
the other, but they have the same number of inhabitants, so they both have the same
symbol. Specifically, this occurs in JOG 250A and TFC (L) 250 maps. In such a
situation, despite the presence of different symbology for these two different places
being present in the Czech data, we have to follow NATO standards. The NATO
standard states that a village with less than 2,000 inhabitants is indicated by a point
symbol.
Obviously one of the major problems is lack of communication between the
geographers and the pilots. One solution is the creation of a website on the Czech
Army internal network. All reported problems and deficiencies are answered there
and there is also a possibility for further communication.
