How do you estimate distances if the foliage appears as a smooth surface?

Estimating distances in a scenario where foliage appears as a smooth surface often relies on familiar visual cues and tactical norms in field operations. When foliage is uniform and continuous, estimating distances can be challenging due to diminished visibility of terrain features.

A common guideline in such instances is to assume that the average visible distance through dense foliage, when it appears as a smooth surface, usually is around 2000 meters. This is based on operational experience where personnel can gauge distance not by direct observation of landmarks but by estimated averages used in similar environments.

While greater distances like 3000 meters or 4000 meters may be possible in more open or varied terrain, the smooth uniformity of foliage typically leads to the conclusion that 2000 meters is a more accurate estimation given the hindrance in visual cues and the limitations of our perception in such conditions. The lower estimates, like 1000 meters, may underestimate the operational range typically accounted for by trained personnel in these scenarios. Hence, choosing 2000 meters reflects a sound understanding of how to assess distances in the context of natural obstacles like dense foliage.