Why Google Earth?
Google Earth offers a 3D view of the earth with satellite imagery, terrain elevation, and even historical imagery. For route planning this adds a dimension that flat maps cannot provide: you can see how steep a slope really is, what a valley looks like, and where cover can be found.
Exporting KML from MilMap
In MilMap, open a route and choose 'Export' → 'Google Earth (KML)'. The KML file contains all waypoints with names, descriptions, and MGRS coordinates, the route line, and any SALUTE reports as overlays.
Opening in Google Earth
Double-click the downloaded KML file to open it directly in Google Earth (desktop). The route appears on the map and Google Earth automatically zooms in to your route area. Use Ctrl+Shift+H (Show elevation profile) to display the elevation profile along the route.
3D terrain flythrough
Right-click your route in Google Earth → 'Show in Google Earth' → 'Play tour'. Google Earth automatically flies along the route at 3D elevation, ideal for a terrain briefing for teams unfamiliar with the area.
Importing KML from Google Earth
The reverse also works: if you have created a route in Google Earth (via 'Add path' or 'Add placemark'), export it as KML or KMZ. You can then import this file into MilMap via 'Import' → select the KML/KMZ file.