What is measured by the distance between soldiers with a soldier's elbow touching the arm of the soldier to their left?

The distance between soldiers with a soldier's elbow touching the arm of the soldier to their left is defined as "Close Interval." This formation is used during various military ceremonies and inspections to ensure that personnel maintain a compact formation. The close interval allows for soldiers to stand closely together, which can be beneficial for maximizing space efficiency and promoting unity within the ranks.

By having soldiers stand in a close interval, the military is able to present a neat and orderly appearance while also facilitating easier communication and coordination among the members in that tight formation. This understanding is essential for drills, ceremonies, and any situation where appearance and discipline are critical.

In contrast, the other terms refer to different spacing configurations: "Normal Interval" involves a standard distance between soldiers, "Double Interval" indicates twice the normal spacing, and "Extended Interval" specifies even greater distances for situations requiring more personal space or when tactical considerations dictate such spacing.