Topographic Map Products

Topographic maps present the vertical position of features in measurable form, as well as their horizontal positions. They range from general wall maps and simple briefing graphics to accurate topographic line maps (TLM) and inclusive city graphics.  U. S. Geological Survey (USGS) topographic maps are not stocked at RMF, but are available to DOD activities as interim products for unavailable, stated requirements, on a limited basis. Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

Topographical Line Maps (TLM) 1:25,000

The 1:25,000 TLM provides the most detail of topographic terrain features. It is an interim or substitute for standard 1:50K or 1:100K TLM's. Prior to conducting a leader's reconnaissance, infantry crew served weapons can be plotted with sufficient reliability, based on a map analysis.

The 1:25 TLM is a lithographic map that portrays topographic and cultural information. It is a true representation of terrain detail; features are plotted to correct orientation and true location.

Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

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Topographical Line Maps (TLM) 1:50,000

The 1:50,000 TLM is a lithographic map that portrays the greater detail of topographic and cultural information. Relief is shown by contours and spot elevations measured in meters. The map is a true representation of terrain detail. Features are plotted to correct orientation and true location. The map depicts the level of detail required for infantry and reconnaissance units to navigate in various terrain environments including jungle, mountain, arctic, and desert.

The 1:50 TLM supplements a commander's reconnaissance of his/her zone of action by providing basic terrain analysis information in sufficient detail to support Intelligence Preparation of the Battlefield.

Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

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Topographical Line Maps (TLM) 1:100,000

The 1:100,000 TLM is designed for operational and tactical operations by providing four times the coverage area of a 1:50,000 scale topographic map. This is the preferred map for armored, mechanized, and mounted operations in deserts or flat terrain.

The 1:100 TLM is primarily used by land and air forces in support of ground operations, for the planning and executing of tactical operations, and fire support missions. It supplements a commander's reconnaissance of zones of action by providing basic terrain analysis information in sufficient detail to support the intelligence preparation of the battlefield.

Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

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City Graphics

A city graphic is a large-scale lithographic map of populated places and environs portraying streets and trough-route information.

Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

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Military Installation Maps (MIM)

A U.S. Military Installation chart is a mosaic of one or more standard series 1:50,000 Topographic Line Maps which are overprinted with small arms and artillery impact areas, training areas, and range facilities information. It uses a Military Grid Reference System grid coordinate system printed on a Mercator projection.

Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

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World Maps

This small scale map contains political boundaries and dominant geographical features such as mountain ranges, oceans, and plains. It is printed on a Miller Cylindrical projection. The visual depiction of the key geographical features highlights the strategic regions of the world and national core centers supporting transportation networks.

The World Map supports the development of general strategy by the Joint Staff. Pentagon briefers use the World Map to orient the national level press and media to geographical areas of interest for the general public.

Topographic stock numbers can be obtained via the NGA Reference Number/National Stock Number (NRN/NSN) Lookup and Download.

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U.S. Geographical Survey (USGS)

U. S. Geological Survey topographic maps are not stocked by the Richmond Map Facility, but are available to DOD activities as interim products for unavailable, stated requirements, on a limited basis. DOD commands must identify all USGS product requirements to their National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Support Team for approval and include the following information:

• Customer account number (DODAAC)
• Area of coverage
• Scale and media requirements
• Justification
• Valid point of contact
• Valid DSN and/or commercial telephone number

USGS also produces digital cartographic data on CD-ROM and 9-track tape, which may be useful to CONUS DOD activities performing functions such as disaster relief planning. Requests for USGS CD-ROM products must be submitted in writing to the NGA Support Team for approval.

For general public users, topographic products produced by NGA are sold by USGS at 1-888-ASK-USGS.

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