Pentagon bans Google from mapping military bases

The Pentagon has banned Google's mapping teams from making detailed street-level video maps of US military bases after images of one camp's internal layout ended up on the internet.

A message sent to all bases and installations around the country late last week told officials not to allow the mapping web site from taking panoramic views inside the facilities.

Google said the incident was a mistake and that the footage of Fort Sam Houston in Texas was removed from its site within 24 hours.

Air Force General Gene Renuart said the decision to issue a formal ban was made after at least one Google crew was permitted access to the base. He was concerned the 360-degree, street-level view would make sensitive information – such as guard hut locations and building entries and exits - available to the country's enemies.