text: Chapter 5
  Camouflage Theory
  5-154. The biggest threat to the team is detection. Detection can be by—
  Direct Observation--Where the observer sees the subject with his eyes, either aided or unaided.
  Indirect Observation--Where the observer sees an image of the subject and not the subject itself.
  Indirect observation uses photography, radar, infrared, thermal imaging, and televideo.
  Factors of Recognition
  5-155. Regardless of the method of observation, certain factors help the eye and brain identify an object.
  The six factors of recognition are—
  Position—This factor relates to the position of the object in relation to its surroundings. In
  addition, position is space relative to one object and another.
  Shape—Experience teaches people to associate an object with its shape or outline. At a distance,
  the outline of objects can be recognized long before the details of its makeup can be
  determined. Trucks, guns, tanks, and other common military items all have distinctive outlines
  that help to identify them.
  Shadow—Shadow may be even more revealing than the object itself. This fact is true when
  viewed from the air. Sometimes it may be more important to break up or disrupt the shadow
  than the object itself.
  Texture—Texture refers to the ability of an object to reflect, absorb, and diffuse light. It may be
  defined as the relative smoothness or roughness of a surface. A rough surface reflects little light
  and will usually appear dark to the eye or in a photo. A smooth surface such as an airstrip,
  although it might be painted the same color as its surroundings, would show up as a lighter tone
  on a photo. One of the most revealing breaches of camouflage discipline is shine. Shine attracts
  attention by reflecting light such as sunlight or moonlight.
  Contrast—Color is an aid to an observer when there is a contrast between the object and its
  background. The greater the contrast in color, the more visible the object is. Usually darker
  shades of a given color will be less likely to attract an observer’s attention than the lighter
  shades.
  Movement—The last factor of recognition is movement. Although this factor seldom reveals the
  identity of an object, it is the most important one of revealing location. Movement is detected
  easily and usually through the observer’s peripheral vision.
  Concealment of Objects
  5-156. Hiding is the concealment of an object by some form of physical screen.
  Hiding—Using thick vegetation or terrain features that screen vehicles from ground observation.
  In some cases, the screen itself can be invisible to detection and, at times, it is the overt screen
  that protects the activity or equipment from observation.
  Blending—Arranging or applying camouflage materials on, over, or around an object so that it
  appears to be part of the background. Blending distinctly man-made objects into a natural
  terrain pattern is necessary to maintain a normal and natural appearance.
  Disguising—Simulating an object or activity so that it looks like something else. Clever disguises
  will mislead the enemy as to identity, strength, and intention.
  Camouflage in the Desert
  5-157. Camouflage challenges encountered in the desert require special attention to overcome. The lack
  of natural overhead cover, the increased range of vision, and the bright tones of terrain all require emphasis
  on sitting, dispersion, and camouflage discipline to achieve concealment. Cast shadows are notably
  conspicuous. Deserts generally have large areas of sand, little tall vegetation, brilliant sunlight, and
  extreme temperatures. Rocky areas, steep wadis, and washes characterize desert environments. The density