The possibilities of utilizing or of changing the characteristics of a theater of operations, to assist, hamper, or deny movement, are governed by considerations previously discussed (see the Principle of the Proper Physical Conditions to be established in the Field of Action—[page 34]).
In planning the creation or maintenance of a favorable military situation from the standpoint of relative position, there may, therefore, profitably be included an examination into:
(a) The relation which may exist between the geographical location of the subdivisions of one's own forces and
(1) Those of the enemy,
(2) Geographical areas under one's own control, and positions within those areas,
(3) Geographical areas not under one's own control, and positions within those areas,
(4) Areas coveted or in dispute,
(5) Fixed actual and potential repair and operating bases and sources of supply and replenishment, own and enemy, controlled or otherwise.
(b) The relation existing among the geographical locations listed immediately above, including the effect of possible changes in control.
(c) The bearing of the sun and moon, and the direction of the wind and sea.