Which type of feature is a saddle on a military map?

A saddle on a military map represents an elevation change, specifically indicating a lower area between two higher points, such as hills or mountains. This terrain feature is important for navigation and tactical planning, as it can influence movement and visibility in a given area. In military operations, understanding the lay of the land, including saddles, helps personnel make informed decisions about positioning, routes, and potential obstacles.

A saddle typically resembles a U-shape or a depression on the map, distinguishing it from other features such as major roads, water bodies, or vegetation. These elements, while significant in their own right, do not specifically denote the topographical characteristics associated with a saddle. Hence, recognizing and identifying elevation changes like saddles is crucial for effective map reading and terrain analysis in a military context.