is less than 6 meters. An obstruction exists for double-flow traffic when
the width is less than 7.3 meters for wheeled vehicles or less than 8 meters
for tracked.
The instructions for the reconnaissance will specify which
type of traffic flow is desired. If no such instructions have been given,
the recon should be conducted on the basis of a double flow for tracked
vehicles.
c.
Route Classification.
In the route classification formula,
routes are designated by their ability to withstand weather.
Whichever
classification symbol is used in the formula is based on the worst section
of road on the route. Three symbols are used.
The symbols and the type
road they represent have been standardized among the NATO nations (STANAG
2174).
Type X is a route that can be used in all kinds of weather
without greatly reducing the amount of traffic it can carry.
It usually has a waterproof surface, e.g., concrete.
This
type of route will require only minimum maintenance to keep it
open.
The only time it would be closed would be for short
periods of time due to unusual flooding or snow.
Type Y is also an all-weather route, but has only a limited
capacity for traffic during bad weather. These roads usually
do not have waterproof surfaces.
Periods of rain, snow, or
extreme temperature will require that traffic be substantially
reduced. They may be closed for periods of up to one day in
bad weather. In bad weather, heavy use of the road may cause
it to become impassable.
The road would then require major
road repair effort to restore it to normal use.
Type z is a fair weather route. It is one that very quickly
becomes unusable in bad weather.
During periods of bad
weather, traffic may have to be halted for long periods of
time.
It has a non-waterproof surface, such as packed clay.
Even in fair weather, its ability to carry heavy traffic is
limited.
d.
Military Load Classification.
(1) The military load classification system is a method of
rating the load-bearing classification for vehicles, roads, and bridges.
For vehicles, it is based on the weight, type (wheeled or tracked), and
effect on roads of the vehicle. For roads and bridges, it is based on their
ability to carry certain types of traffic without causing major damage to
the road or bridge. The engineers classify roads and bridges based on their
physical characteristics, the type and flow of traffic, effects of weather,
and other special conditions. In cases where such a determination has not
already been made, this would be a major item of information during a
deliberate route recon.
Under the load classification system, vehicles,
roads,
and
bridges
are
given a
whole
number
to indicate
their
classification. The numbers used range from 1 to 120. Most NATO vehicles
are marked with their classification number.
They are black numbers on a
yellow/orange disk on the front, and sometimes on the side. See Figure 1-
12.
MP1028
1-32
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