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Chapter V V-42 JP 3-0 the release of US mapping materials or imagery products may first require foreign disclosure/release adjudication. For further guidance on GEOINT, refer to JP 2-03, Geospatial Intelligence Support to Joint Operations. h. Physical Environment (1) Weather, terrain, and sea conditions can significantly affect operations and logistic support of the joint force and should be carefully assessed before sustained combat operations. Mobility of the force, integration and synchronization of operations, and ability to employ precision munitions can be affected by degraded conditions. Climatological and hydrographic planning tools, studies, and forecast products help the JFC determine the most advantageous time and location to conduct operations. (2) Urban areas possess all of the characteristics of the natural landscape, coupled with man-made construction and the associated infrastructure, resulting in a complicated and dynamic environment that influences the conduct of military operations in many ways. The most distinguishing characteristic of operations in urban areas, however, is not the infrastructure but the density of noncombatants. Joint urban operations (JUOs) are conducted in large, densely populated areas with problems unique to clearing enemy forces while possibly restoring services and managing major concentrations of people. For example, industrial areas and port facilities often are collocated with highly populated areas creating the opportunity for accidental or deliberate release of toxic industrial materials which could impact JUOs. During JUOs, joint forces may not focus only on destruction of enemy forces but also may be required to take steps necessary to protect and support noncombatants and their infrastructure from which they receive services necessary for survival. As such, ROE during JUOs may be more restrictive than for other types of operations. When planning JUOs, the JFC and staff should consider the impact of military operations on noncombatants to include their culture, values, and infrastructure; thereby viewing the urban area as a dynamic and complex system—not solely as terrain. This implies the joint force should be capable of understanding the specific urban environment; sensing, locating, and isolating the enemy among noncombatants; and applying combat power precisely and discriminately. For additional guidance on JUOs, refer to JP 3-06, Joint Urban Operations. (3) Littoral Areas. The littoral area contains two parts. First is the seaward area from the open ocean to the shore, which must be controlled to support operations ashore. Second is the landward area inland from the shore that can be supported and defended directly from the sea. Control of the littoral area often is essential to maritime superiority. Maritime operations conducted in the littoral area can project power, fires, and forces to support achieving the JFC’s objectives; and facilitate the entry of other elements of the joint force through the seizure of an adversary’s port, naval base, or air base to allow entry and movement of other elements of the joint force. Depending on the situation, mine warfare may be critical to control of the littoral areas.