Knowledge base
MGRS coordinates, from A to Z
The Military Grid Reference System (MGRS) is the international military standard for positioning. This guide covers what MGRS is, how to read and convert coordinates, and how to use them in the field — with MilMap as the tool that supports MGRS everywhere.
What Is MGRS? The Military Grid Reference System Explained
MGRS (Military Grid Reference System) is the international military standard for positioning. Learn what MGRS is, how a coordinate is built up and why it beats GPS.
ReadReading MGRS Coordinates: Explained Step by Step
Learn to read an MGRS coordinate: grid zone, 100 km square, easting and northing. Includes the "read right up" principle and a worked example.
ReadConverting MGRS to GPS (Latitude and Longitude)
Convert an MGRS coordinate to GPS coordinates (latitude and longitude, WGS84). Here is how the conversion works and how to do it automatically in MilMap.
ReadConverting GPS to MGRS (Latitude/Longitude → MGRS)
Convert latitude and longitude to an MGRS coordinate. Here is how GPS-to-MGRS conversion works, and how to do it directly in MilMap.
ReadMGRS vs UTM: What Is the Difference?
MGRS and UTM look alike but are not the same. Discover the difference in notation, use and when to choose which system.
ReadMGRS Grid Zones and 100 km Squares Explained
How the earth is divided in MGRS: grid zones (UTM zone + latitude band) and the 100,000-meter squares with their letter codes.
ReadMGRS Accuracy: What Do the Digits Mean?
From 10 km to 1 meter: how the number of digits in an MGRS coordinate determines the precision, and which precision to use when.
ReadUsing MGRS in the Field with Your Phone
Practical with MGRS in the field: reading off your position, passing on coordinates, working offline and sharing waypoints — with MilMap on your phone.
ReadMGRS in Military and NATO Use
Why MGRS is the standard at NATO: unambiguous positioning, error-free radio communication and cooperation between units and countries.
ReadConverting MGRS Coordinates: Convert Online
Convert MGRS coordinates to and from GPS (lat/long) and UTM. Here is how to convert reliably — and why a map app beats a standalone converter.
ReadTry it yourself: GPS ↔ MGRS
The exact same conversion used in the MilMap app.
Result
Enter a valid latitude and longitude
What it looks like in MilMap
The cursor info bar in MilMap shows the live MGRS coordinate of your position or cursor.
- Search directly for an MGRS coordinate in the map search bar
- Waypoints and route card tables show every position as MGRS
- Share an MGRS position via chat, 9-liner or MEDEVAC report
MGRS lookup map
2 free lookups leftClick the map or search an MGRS square — you get the coordinate instantly.
Get started with MilMap
Search, input, export and convert MGRS — across the whole app.
Get started with MilMap