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FM 1-02 (FM 101-5-1) MCRP 5-12A OPERATIONAL TERMS AND GRAPHICS (SEPTEMBER 2004) - page 1

 

 

*FM 1-02 (FM 101-5-1), C1
MCRP 5-12A
Field Manual
Headquarters
No. FM 1-02 (FM 101-5-1)
Department of the Army
Washington, DC
MCRP 5-12A
Headquarters
Marine Corps Combat Development Command
Department of the Navy
Headquarters, United States Marine Corps
Washington, DC
21 September 2004
Operational Terms and Graphics
Contents
Page
PREFACE
vi
INTRODUCTION
vii
Chapter 1
OPERATIONAL TERMS
1-1
Chapter 2
OPERATIONAL ACRONYMS, ABBREVIATIONS, AND COUNTRY CODES . 2-1
Section I - Acronyms and Abbreviations
2-1
Section II - Two-Letter Geographical Entity Codes
2-31
Chapter 3
MULTI-SERVICE BREVITY CODES, PROCEDURE WORDS, AND
TACTICAL TASKS
3-1
+Section I - Brevity Codes
Rescinded
Section II - Procedure Words (Prowords)
3-1
Section III - Tactical Mission Tasks
3-1
Chapter 4
MILITARY SYMBOLS
4-1
Purpose
4-1
Orientation of Military Symbols
4-2
Composition of Military Symbols
4-2
Basic Rules for Building Symbols
4-10
Chapter 5
UNIT SYMBOLS
5-1
Composition of Unit Symbols
5-1
Unit Symbol Modifier Fields
5-3
Locating Unit Symbols
5-41
Distribution Restriction: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
*This publication supersedes FM 101-5-1/MCRP 5-12A, 30 September 1997.
i
Marine Corps PCN: 144 000008 00
FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A, C1
Chapter 6
EQUIPMENT SYMBOLS
6-1
Orientation of Equipment Symbols
6-1
Composition of Equipment Symbols
6-1
Building Equipment Symbols
6-2
Size and Range Indicators
6-30
Chapter 7
GRAPHIC CONTROL MEASURES
7-1
Overlays
7-1
Colors
7-1
Orientation of Control Measures
7-2
Building Graphic Control Measures
7-2
Fire Support Coordinating Measures
7-9
Targets
7-10
Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Attacks/Events
7-10
Chapter 8
INSTALLATION SYMBOLS
8-1
Composition of Installation Symbols
8-1
Installation Symbol Modifier Fields
8-2
Chapter 9
STABILITY OPERATIONS AND SUPPORT OPERATIONS SYMBOLS
9-1
Composition of Stability Operations and Support Operations Symbols
9-1
Stability Operations and Support Operations Symbol Modifier Fields
9-2
Appendix A
TACTICAL MISSION GRAPHICS
A-1
Appendix B
EXAMPLES OF MILITARY SYMBOLS
B-1
Appendix C
EXAMPLES OF THE USE OF MILITARY SYMBOLS
C-1
Appendix D
MILITARY DECISIONMAKING PROCESS GRAPHICS
D-1
Status and Assessment Charts
D-1
Combat Effectiveness Graphics
D-3
Task Organization Composition Graphics
D-4
Decision Graphics
D-7
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Bibliography-1
INDEX OF SYMBOLS
Index of Symbols-1
Figures
Figure 4-1. Components of a Military Symbol
4-2
Figure 4-2. Field Positions for Text or Graphic Modifiers
4-5
Figure 5-1. Unit Symbol Components
5-1
Figure 5-2. Unit Symbol Modifier Fields
5-3
Figure 5-3. Examples of Command Symbols
5-34
Figure 5-4. Examples of Task Forces
5-34
Figure 5-5. Examples of Reinforced, Reduced, and Reinforced and Reduced
5-35
Figure 5-6. Offset and Multiple Unit Locations
5-42
Figure 5-7. Offset Headquarters and Multiple Headquarters Locations
5-42
Figure 6-1. Equipment Symbol Components
6-1
ii
2 February 2010
_______________________________________________________________FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A
Figure
6-2. Equipment Symbol Modifier Fields
6-4
Figure
7-1. Boundary Modifier Fields
7-2
Figure
7-2. Examples of Friendly Lateral Boundaries
7-3
Figure
7-3. Example of a Friendly Rear Boundary
7-4
Figure
7-4. Example of a Friendly Forward Boundary
7-4
Figure
7-5. Examples of Hostile Lateral Boundaries
7-4
Figure
7-6. Line Modifier Fields
7-6
Figure
7-7. Example of a Friendly Line of Departure on a Phase Line
7-6
Figure
7-8. Area Modifier Fields
7-7
Figure
7-9. Examples of Friendly Assembly Area and Pickup Zone
7-7
Figure
7-10. Point Modifier Fields
7-8
Figure
7-11. Examples of Friendly Ammunition Transfer Point and Class VIII Supply Point
7-9
Figure
7-12. Example of a Friendly FSCL on a Phase Line
7-10
Figure
7-13. Example of a Friendly No-Fire Area
7-10
Figure
7-14. Target Labeling Fields
7-10
Figure
7-15. Nuclear Attack/Event
7-11
Figure
7-16. Biological Event
7-11
Figure
7-17. Chemical Event
7-11
Figure
8-1. Installation Symbol Components
8-1
Figure
8-2. Installation Symbol Modifier Fields
8-3
Figure
9-1. Stability Operations and Support Operations Symbol Components
9-1
Figure
9-2. Stability Operations and Support Operations Symbol Modifier Fields
9-3
Figure A-1. Example of Decision Graphics and Tactical Mission Graphics
A-7
Figure B-1. Airborne Infantry Divisions
B-1
Figure B-2. Air Assault Infantry Divisions
B-2
Figure B-3. Armored Divisions
B-2
Figure B-4. Mechanized Infantry Divisions
B-2
Figure B-5. Light Infantry Divisions
B-3
Figure B-6. Infantry Divisions
B-3
Figure B-7. Marine Divisions
B-3
Figure B-8. Stryker Brigade Combat Teams
B-4
Figure B-9. Supply Sites
B-4
Figure B-10. Combat Service Support Units
B-5
Figure B-11. Unit Symbols with Labeling Fields
B-6
Figure B-12. Equipment Symbols with Labeling Fields
B-7
Figure B-13. Installation Symbols with Labeling Fields
B-8
Figure B-14. Stability Operations and Support Operations Symbols with Labeling Fields
B-8
Figure C-1. Contiguous Areas of Operations
C-1
Figure C-2. Noncontiguous Areas of Operations
C-2
Figure C-3. Stability Operations and Support Operations
C-2
Figure C-4. Combat Service Support Operations
C-3
Figure D-1. Example of Bar Type Status Chart
D-2
iii
FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A _______________________________________________________________________
Figure D-2. Example of a Gumball Status Chart
D-3
Figure D-3. Example of Combat Effectiveness Chart
D-4
Figure D-4. Unit Symbol for Task Force 2-2
D-5
Figure D-5. Example of a Task Organization Composition Graphic
D-5
Figure D-6. Example of a Company Team Decision Graphic
D-8
Figure D-7. Example of a Task Force Decision Graphic
D-8
Figure D-8. Example of a Brigade Decision Graphic
D-9
Tables
Table 1-1. Seven Levels of MOPP
1-127
Table 4-1. Frame Shapes for All Affiliations and Dimensions
4-3
Table 4-2. Status of Symbols
4-4
Table 4-3. Color Defaults
4-4
Table 4-4. Descriptions of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Military Symbols
4-6
Table 5-1. Building Unit Symbols
5-2
Table 5-2. Descriptions of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Unit Symbols
5-4
Table 5-3. Field A: Branch and Functional Symbols
5-6
Table 5-4. Field A: Mobility and Capability Modifiers
5-26
Table 5-5. Field A: Special Operations Forces
5-30
Table 5-6. Field B: Echelon
5-33
Table 5-7. Field AA: Named Command and Control Headquarters
5-36
Table 5-8. Field AJ: Headquarters Element
5-39
Table 5-9. Multifunctional Combat Service Support Units
5-40
Table 6-1. Building Equipment Symbols with Frames
6-2
Table 6-2. Building Equipment Symbols Without Frames
6-3
Table 6-3. Descriptions of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Equipment Symbols
6-4
Table 6-4. Field A: Equipment Types
6-7
Table 6-5. Field R: Mobility Indicator
6-29
Table 6-6. Standards for Size and Range Indicators by Equipment Systems
6-31
Table 7-1. Description of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Boundaries
7-3
Table 7-2. Unit Abbreviations
7-5
Table 7-3. Description of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Lines
7-6
Table 7-4. Description of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Areas
7-7
Table 7-5. Description of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Points
7-9
Table 7-6. Description of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Nuclear, Biological, and
Chemical Attacks/Events
7-11
Table 7-7. Examples of Maneuver Control Measures
7-12
Table 7-8. Examples of Airspace Control Measures
7-19
Table 7-9. Examples of Deception Control Measures
7-23
iv
_______________________________________________________________FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A
Table 7-10. Examples of Offensive Control Measures
7-28
Table 7-11. Examples of Special Maneuver Control Measures
7-33
Table 7-12. Examples of Fire Support Coordinating Measures
7-36
Table 7-13. Examples of Command and Control Measures
7-41
Table 7-14. Examples of Mobility/Countermobility/Survivability Control Measures
7-45
Table 7-15. Examples of Survivability Control Measures
7-55
Table 7-16. Examples of Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Control Measures
7-56
Table 7-17. Examples of Combat Service Support Control Measures
7-62
Table 8-1. Building Installation Symbols
8-2
Table 8-2. Graphic Modifiers for Installation Symbols
8-3
Table 8-3. Field A: Installation Function
8-6
Table 9-1. Building Stability Operations and Support Operations Symbols
9-2
Table 9-2. Descriptions of Fields for Text or Graphic Modifiers for Stability Operations and
Support Operations Symbols
9-3
Table 9-3. Field AA: Stability Operations and Support Operations Activities, Locations, and
Nonmilitary Organizations
9-6
Table A-1. Examples of Tactical Mission Graphics
A-2
v
Preface
This manual is a dual-Service US Army and US Marine Corps publication introducing new terms
and definitions and updating existing definitions as reflected in the latest editions of Army field
manuals and Marine Corps doctrinal, warfighting, and reference publications. It complies with
DOD Military Standard
2525. When communicating instructions to subordinate units,
commanders and staffs from company through corps should use this manual as a dictionary of
operational terms and military graphics.
This manual incorporates changes in joint terminology and definitions as reflected in JP 1-02 (as
amended through June 2003) and provides a single standard for developing and depicting hand-
drawn and computer-generated military symbols for situation maps, overlays, and annotated
aerial photographs for all types of military operations. The symbology chapters of this manual
focus primarily on land military symbols applicable for the Army and Marine Corps. In addition
to terminology, this manual includes the following updated lists:
Approved acronyms and abbreviations with their expansions.
Two-letter country codes.
Brevity codes and their meanings.
Procedural words.
Tactical tasks.
This manual applies to the Active Army, the US Army Reserves, the Army National Guard and
the US Marine Corps.
This manual implements the following international agreements:
STANAG 3680/AAP-6 (2003), NATO Glossary of Terms and Definitions.
AAP-15, NATO Glossary of Abbreviations Used in NATO Documents and Publications.
STANAG 1059, National Distinguishing Letters for Use by NATO Armed Forces, where
appropriate for Army- and/or Marine Corps-specific usage.
STANAG 2019/APP-6A, Military Symbols For Land Based Systems.
QSTAG 509, Military Symbols.
STANAG 2022, Intelligence Reports, for the evaluation ratings in annex A.
STANAG 2961, Classes of Supply of NATO Land Forces, for reference and comparison
with US classes of supply.
The proponent for this manual is Headquarters, US Army Training and Doctrine Command.
Send written comments and recommendations on DA Form 2028 (Recommended Changes to Pub-
lications and Blank Forms) directly to Commander, US Army Combined Arms Center and Fort
Leavenworth, ATTN: ATZL-CD (FM 1-02), 1 Reynolds Avenue (Building 111), Fort Leavenworth,
KS
66027-1352. Send comments and recommendations by e-mail to web-
cadd@leavenworth.army.mil. Follow the DA Form 2028 format or submit an electronic DA Form
2028.
Unless stated otherwise, masculine nouns or pronouns do not refer exclusively to men.
vi
Introduction
The terminology section of this manual is a compilation of doctrinally-accepted definitions that
have been taken from approved manuals. One Army field manual is cited as the proponent or
reference for each definition. (NOTE: As the US Army is in the process of changing the number-
ing system for its field manuals, the cited manual number reflects the number that was in effect
at the time FM 1-02 was approved.) The proponent manual for all Marine Corps definitions in
this publication is MCRP 5-12C, Marine Corps Supplement to the Department of Defense Diction-
ary of Military and Associated Terms.
Terminology entries in this manual fall into the following five categories:
Definitions that are applicable to the US Army only. The definition is preceded by
“(Army)” and followed by the proponent US Army field manual in parentheses:
situational understanding - (Army) The product of applying analysis and judgment to
the common operational picture to determine the relationship among the factors of
METT-TC. (FM 3-0)
Definitions that are applicable to the US Marine Corps only. The definition is preceded by
“(Marine Corps)”:
situational awareness - (Marine Corps) Knowledge and understanding of the current
situation which promotes timely, relevant, and accurate assessment of friendly, enemy,
and other operations within the battlespace in order to facilitate decisionmaking. An in-
formational perspective and skill that fosters an ability to determine quickly the context
and relevance of events that are unfolding.
Definitions that are applicable to both the US Army and US Marine Corps. The definition
follows the term directly, and the proponent Army manual follows the definition:
actions on contact - A series of combat actions, often conducted simultaneously, taken
upon contact with the enemy to develop the situation. (FM 3-90)
In some cases the Army and Marine Corps have agreed on a compromise definition for a particu-
lar term. This definition does not appear in either Service’s manuals, but will be incorporated
into them when the appropriate manuals are revised. In such cases the definition is preceded by
“(Army/Marine Corps)” and followed by the proponent Army manual:
route reconnaissance - (Army/Marine Corps) A directed effort to obtain detailed in-
formation of a specified route and all terrain from which the enemy could influence
movement along that route. (FM 3-90)
Joint and/or NATO terms whose definitions are applicable to the Army and Marine Corps
as well. Joint and NATO definitions are reproduced exactly as they appear in JP 1-02 (12
April 2001, as amended through 05 June 2003) and AAP-6 (2003) respectively. The defi-
nition is preceded by one of four possible parenthetical notations (see below). “See FM
vii
FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
XX” follows the definition, signifying that the indicated manual is the reference manual
for Army-specific usage:
„
(DOD): the term is a joint term.
persistent agent
- (DOD) A chemical agent that, when released,
remains able to cause casualties for more than 24 hours to several days or
weeks. See FM 3-9.
„
(NATO): the term is a NATO term.
reference box - (NATO) The identification box placed in the margin of a
map or chart which contains the series designation, sheet number and edition
number in a readily identifiable form. See FM 3-25.26.
„
(DOD, NATO): the term is both a joint and NATO term, and the joint and
NATO definitions are virtually the same (with minor differences noted).
combat power - (DOD, NATO) The total means of destructive and/or
disruptive force which a military unit/formation can apply against the
opponent at a given time. See FM 3-0.
state of readiness - state 2 - armed - (DOD, NATO) The state of a
demolition target in which the demolition charges are in place, the firing and
priming circuits are installed and complete, and the charge is ready for
immediate firing. [Note: the NATO definition does not include “and the charge
is.”] See FM 5-250.
„
(DOD)…. [Note: see AAP-6]: the term is both a joint and NATO term. The
definitions are similar in meaning, but the wording is different. If the reader
requires the exact NATO definition, he should consult AAP-6 (most current
edition), NATO Glossary of Terms and Definitions.
immediate decontamination - (DOD) Decontamination carried out by
individuals immediately upon becoming contaminated. It is performed in an
effort to minimize casualties, save lives, and limit the spread of
contamination. [Note: See AAP-6.] See FM 3-5.
Joint/NATO terms that are used by the Army/Marine Corps, but whose definitions are ei-
ther inadequate for or not applicable to specific Army/Marine Corps usage. Both the joint
and NATO definitions and the Service definitions are given. Where Army and Marine
Corps definitions differ from each other, both are provided. The Army definition is fol-
lowed by the proponent manual.
seize - (DOD) To employ combat forces to occupy physically and control a designated
area. (Army) A tactical mission task that involves taking possession of a designated area
using overwhelming force. (FM 3-90) (Marine Corps) To clear a designated area and ob-
tain control of it.
If the term is a joint/NATO term, but no Army field manual is referenced, then this indicates
that the Marine Corps has proponency for the term and definition:
viii
______________________________________________________________________Introduction
action phase - (DOD) In an amphibious operation, the period of time between the arri-
val of the landing forces of the amphibious force in the operational area and the accom-
plishment of their mission. See also amphibious force; amphibious operation;
landing force; mission.
In addition, there are two further descriptors that may appear after a definition:
Also called”: If the term has an accepted abbreviation or acronym, the abbreviation or ac-
ronym appears bolded after the definition, preceded by “Also called”:
passage point - A specifically designated place where the passing units will pass
through the stationary unit. Also called PP. (FM 3-90)
“See also”: If there are any related terms defined elsewhere in the manual, they are cross-
referenced at the end of the definition as bolded terms preceded by “See also”:
hostile criteria - Description of conditions under which an aircraft or a vehicle may be
identified as hostile for engagement purposes. See also hostile acts; rules of engage-
ment. (FM 27-10)
The symbology section is broken down into chapters dealing with unit symbols, equipment sym-
bols, graphic control measures, installation symbols, and stability operations and support opera-
tions symbols. Each of these chapters provides detailed requirements for composing and
constructing its associated symbols and control measures. While the manual does not include
every possible symbol for every possible context, the rules for building a specific set of military
symbols allow enough flexibility for users to create any symbol to meet their operational needs.
This manual contains a compilation of graphic control measures. This revision includes informa-
tion on building symbols and using graphics omitted in the 1997 version that appeared in earlier
versions of military symbology manuals. It includes a link between terms and symbols with the
cross-referenced terms, including the proponent manual that provides the description for the us-
age of the graphic control measures. All graphic control measures in this manual are linked to
doctrine.
ix
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Chapter 1
Operational Terms
—A—
abatis - A vehicular obstacle constructed by felling trees (leaving a 1- to 2-meter stump above
the ground on both sides of a road, trail, gap, or defile) so that they fall, interlocked, toward
the expected direction of enemy approach. The trees should remain attached to the stumps
and be at a 45-degree angle to the roadway. The obstacle itself should be at least 75 meters
in depth to be most effective. (FM 5-103) (See page 7-45 for symbol.)
abort criteria - A predetermined set of circumstances, based on risk assessment, which makes
the success of an operation no longer probable; thus the operation is terminated. These
circumstances can relate to changes in safety, equipment or troops available, preparation or
rehearsal time, weather, enemy, losses during execution, or a combination of the above. See
also air assault operation. (FM 3-05.20)
above ground level - The altitude of an aircraft as measured between the terrain (excluding
vegetation and man-made structures) and the aircraft. The altitude is usually not the same
as measured from sea level. Also called AGL. See also coordinating altitude.
(FM 3-04.111)
absorbed dose - (DOD, NATO) The amount of energy imparted by nuclear (or ionizing)
radiation to unit mass of absorbing material. [Note: DOD and NATO use rad as the unit, the
Army uses centigray.] See also centigray; dose rate. See FM 3-3-1.
accessibility
- The availability of an audience for targeting by psychological operations.
(FM 3-05.30)
accident risk - All operational risk considerations other than tactical risks. Includes risk to
friendly forces and risk posed to civilians by an operation, as well as the impact of operations
on the environment. See also tactical risk. (FM 3-100.4)
accompanying supplies - (DOD) Unit supplies that deploy with forces. See also basic load;
combat load. See FM 4-0.
accountability - (DOD) The obligation imposed by law or lawful order or regulation on an
officer or other person for keeping accurate record of property, documents, or funds. The
person having this obligation may or may not have actual possession of the property,
documents, or funds. Accountability is concerned primarily with records, while responsibility
is concerned primarily with custody, care, and safekeeping. (Army) The requirement for a
commander to answer to superiors for mission accomplishment, for the lives and care of the
soldiers under his command, and for the effective and efficient use of Army resources.
(FM 6-0)
acknowledge - A directive from the originator of a communication requiring the addressee(s) to
advise the originator that his communication has been received and understood. This term is
1-1
FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
normally included in the electronic transmission of orders to ensure the receiving station or
person confirms the receipt of the order. See also acknowledgment. (FM 11-32)
acknowledgment - (NATO) A message from the addressee informing the originator that his
communication has been received and understood. See also acknowledge. See FM 11-32.
acoustic jamming
-
(DOD) The deliberate radiation or reradiation of mechanical or
electroacoustic signals with the objectives of obliterating or obscuring signals that the enemy
is attempting to receive and of disrupting enemy weapon systems. See FM 34-1.
acoustic surveillance
- Employment of electronic devices, including sound-recording,
receiving, or transmitting equipment, for the collection of information. (FM 34-1)
action phase - (DOD) In an amphibious operation, the period of time between the arrival of the
landing forces of the amphibious force in the operational area and the accomplishment of
their mission. See also amphibious force; amphibious operation; landing force;
mission.
action program - A sequential, coordinated presentation of a series of actions to achieve a
specific psychological operation objective. See also psychological operations program.
(FM 3-05.30)
actions on contact - A series of combat actions, often conducted simultaneously, taken upon
contact with the enemy to develop the situation. (FM 3-90)
active air defense - (DOD) Direct defensive action taken to destroy, nullify, or reduce the
effectiveness of hostile air and missile threats against friendly forces and assets. It includes
the use of aircraft, air defense weapons, electronic warfare, and other available weapons.
[Note: See AAP-6.] See also air defense; passive air defense. See FM 44-100.
active defense - (DOD) The employment of limited offensive action and counterattacks to deny
a contested area or position to the enemy. (Army) One of the four operational elements of
theater missile defense. Operations that protect selected assets and forces from attack by
destroying theater missile (TM) airborne launch platforms and/or TMs in flight. Active
defense also includes those actions that mitigate the effectiveness of targeting and delivery
systems through electronic warfare against remote or onboard guidance systems. See also
attack operations; passive defense; theater missile defense. (FM 100-12)
active duty for training - (DOD) A tour of active duty which is used for training members of
the Reserve Components to provide trained units and qualified persons to fill the needs of
the Armed Forces in time of war or national emergency and such other times as the national
security requires. The member is under orders which provide for return to nonactive status
when the period of active duty for training is completed. This includes annual training,
special tours of active duty for training, school tours, and the initial duty for training
performed by nonprior service enlistees. Also called ADT.
acute-care services - Medical services provided for patients with conditions having a gradual
to rapid onset that follows a short but acute course. The majority of medical care far forward
is acute care service. The objective of acute care service is to treat symptomatic
manifestations. (FM 4-02.24)
1-2
_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
add - (NATO) In artillery and naval fire support, a correction used by an observer/spotter to
indicate that an increase in range along the spotting line is desired. [Note: the Army
definition also applies to mortar fire.] See FM 6-30.
adjust - (DOD) An order to the observer or spotter to initiate an adjustment on a designated
target. See FM 6-30.
adjust fire - (NATO) In artillery and naval fire support: 1. A method of control transmitted in
the call for fire by the observer or spotter to indicate that he will control the adjustment. 2.
An order or request to initiate an adjustment of fire. See also call for fire. See FM 6-30.
adjustment decision - During preparation and execution, the selection of a course of action
that modifies the order to respond to unanticipated opportunities or threats. (FM 6-0)
adjustment of fire - (NATO) Process used in artillery and naval gunfire to obtain correct
bearing, range, and height of burst (if time fuzes are used) when engaging a target by
observed fire. See also call for fire. See FM 6-30.
administrative control - (DOD) Direction or exercise of authority over subordinate or other
organizations in respect to administration and support, including organization of Service
forces, control of resources and equipment, personnel management, unit logistics, individual
and unit training, readiness, mobilization, demobilization, discipline, and other matters not
included in the operational missions of the subordinate or other organizations. (NATO)
Direction or exercise of authority over subordinate or other organizations in respect to
administrative matters such as personnel management, supply, services, and other matters
not included in the operational missions of the subordinate or other organizations. Also
called ADCON. See also command relationships. See FM 3-0.
administrative landing - (DOD) An unopposed landing involving debarkation from vessels
that have been administratively loaded. See also administrative movement; logistics
over-the-shore operations.
administrative movement - (DOD, NATO) A movement in which troops and vehicles are
arranged to expedite their movement and conserve time and energy when no enemy
interference, except by air, is anticipated. See also administrative landing. See FM 3-0.
admission rates - The number of patients admitted to inpatient setting within a hospital from
a specified population over a designated period of time. (FM 8-55)
advanced operations base - (DOD) In special operations, a small temporary base established
near or within a joint special operations area to command, control, and/or support training or
tactical operations. Facilities are normally austere. The base may be ashore or afloat. If
ashore, it may include an airfield or unimproved airstrip, a pier, or an anchorage. An
advanced operations base is normally controlled and/or supported by a main operations base
or a forward operations base. [Note: the Army SOF term is “advanced operational base.”]
Also called AOB. See also forward operations base; main operations base. See
FM 100-25.
advance guard - (DOD) Detachment sent ahead of the main force to ensure its uninterrupted
advance; to protect the main body against surprise; to facilitate the advance by removing
obstacles and repairing roads and bridges; and to cover the deployment of the main body if it
is committed to action. See also exploitation; movement to contact; pursuit;
reconnaissance in force. See FM 3-90.
1-3
FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
advance party - A team that coordinates the convoy’s arrival at the destination. It may move
with the main body initially but must arrive at the destination sufficiently ahead of the main
body. See also march column; quartering party. (FM 4-01.30).
advance to contact - (NATO) An offensive operation designed to gain or re-establish contact
with the enemy. [Note: DOD uses the term “movement to contact” instead.] See also
meeting engagement; offensive operations; reconnaissance in force. See FM 3-0.
advance trauma life support - Resuscitative and stabilizing medical or surgical treatment
provided to patients to save life or limb and to prepare them for further evacuation without
jeopardizing their well-being or prolonging the state of their condition. Also called ATLS.
(FM 4-02.6)
aerial port- (DOD) An airfield that has been designated for the sustained air movement of
personnel and materiel, as well as an authorized port for entrance into or departure from the
country where located. Also called APORT. See FM 100-17.
aerial port of debarkation - An airfield for sustained air movement at which personnel and
materiel are discharged from aircraft. Aerial ports of debarkation normally serve as ports of
embarkation for return passengers and retrograde cargo shipments. Also called APOD. (FM
55-1) (See page 5-25 for symbol.)
aerial port of embarkation - An airfield for sustained air movement at which personnel and
materiel board or are loaded aboard aircraft to initiate aerial movement. Aerial ports of
embarkation may serve as ports of debarkation for return passengers and retrograde cargo
shipments. Also called APOE. (FM 55-1) (See page 5-25 for symbol.)
aeromedical evacuation - (DOD, NATO) The movement of patients under medical supervision
to and between medical treatment facilities by air transportation. [Note: the NATO definition
does not include “under medical supervision.”] Also called AE. See FM 8-10-6.
aeromedical staging facility - A United States Air Force staging facility employed at or near
airfields in the combat zone and echelons above corps. It also provides a temporary staging
capability for patients being evacuated from echelons above corps or another theater to the
continental United States. The facility is employed to ensure patients are prepared for
aircraft loading with the main focus of reducing aeromedical evacuation aircraft ground time.
Also called ASF. (FM 8-10-6)
agents of action - Persons and organizations who carry out programs of psychological actions.
Discretionary agents are persons or organizations whose activities are planned primarily for
their psychological impact. Incidental agents are persons or organizations whose activities
generate a psychological impact secondary to the military operation. (FM 3-05.30)
agility - The ability to move and adjust quickly and easily. (FM 3-0)
agreed point - (NATO) A predetermined point on the ground, identifiable from the air, and
used when aircraft assist in fire adjustment. See FM 6-30.
aid station
- The first medical treatment facility that can provide advanced trauma
management to a battlefield casualty. It provides first level of triage evaluation of casualties
and conducts routine sick call. See also level of care. (FM 4-02)
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
air - (DOD, NATO) In artillery and naval gunfire support, a spotting, or an observation, by a
spotter or an observer to indicate that a burst or group of bursts occurred before impact.
[Note: the Army definition also applies to mortar fire.] See also adjustment of fire. See
FM 6-30.
air assault operation - (DOD) Operation in which assault forces (combat, combat service, and
combat service support), using the firepower, mobility, and total integration of helicopter
assets, maneuver on the battlefield under the control of the ground or air maneuver
commander to engage and destroy enemy forces or to seize and hold key terrain. See also
abort criteria; airhead; air mission brief; air mission commander. See FM 90-4.
airborne - (DOD) 1. In relation to personnel, troops especially trained to effect, following
transport by air, an assault debarkation, either by parachuting or touchdown. 2. In relation
to equipment, pieces of equipment that have been especially designed for use by airborne
troops during or after an assault debarkation. It also designates some aeronautical
equipment used to accomplish a particular mission. 3. When applied to materiel, items that
form an integral part of the aircraft. 4. The state of an aircraft from the instant it becomes
entirely sustained by air until it ceases to be so sustained. A lighter-than-air aircraft is not
considered to be airborne when it is attached to the ground, except that moored balloons are
airborne whenever sent aloft. See FM 3-90. (See page 5-26 for symbol.)
airborne force - (DOD, NATO) A force composed primarily of ground and air units organized,
equipped, and trained for airborne operations. See FM 3-90.
airborne operation - (DOD) An operation involving the air movement into an objective area of
combat forces and their logistic support for execution of a tactical, operational, or strategic
mission. The means employed may be any combination of airborne units, air transportable
units, and types of transport aircraft, depending on the mission and the overall situation. See
FM 3-90.
airburst - (DOD, NATO) An explosion of a bomb or projectile above the surface as distinguished
from an explosion on contact with the surface or after penetration. See FM 6-30.
air contingency Marine air-ground task force - An on-call, combat-ready Marine air-ground
task force (MAGTF) that deploys by airlift. Air contingency MAGTFs vary in size based on
mission requirements and the availability of airlift. Because they deploy by air, they
generally have a limited organic logistic capability, and require an arrival airfield. Air
contingency MAGTFs usually are activated to respond to developing crises, and may deploy
independently or in conjunction with other expeditionary forces. Also called ACM. See also
aviation combat element; combat service support element; ground combat element;
Marine air-ground task force; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary
force (forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground
task force; task force.
air controller - (NATO) An individual especially trained for and assigned the duty of the
control (by use of radio, radar, or other means) of such aircraft as may be allotted to him for
operation within his area. See FM 3-04.111.
air control point - An easily identifiable point on the terrain or an electronic navigational aid
used to provide necessary control during air movement. Air control points are generally
designated at each point where the flight route or air corridor makes a definite change in any
direction and at any other point deemed necessary for timing or control of the operation. Also
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
called ACP. See also air corridor; communications checkpoint; minimum-risk route.
(FM 3-52) (See page 7-22 for symbol.)
air corridor - (DOD, NATO) A restricted air route of travel specified for use by friendly aircraft
and established for the purpose of preventing friendly aircraft from being fired on by friendly
forces. Also called flight corridor. See also air control point. See FM 3-52. (See page 7-19
for symbol.)
air defense - (DOD) All defensive measures designed to destroy attacking enemy aircraft or
missiles in the Earth’s envelope of atmosphere, or to nullify or reduce the effectiveness of
such attack. Also called AD. See also active air defense; passive air defense. See
FM 4-100. (See page 5-6 for symbol.)
air defense battlefield operating system - (Army) Protects the force from missile attack, air
attack, and aerial surveillance by any of the following: ballistic missiles, cruise missiles,
conventional fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. It prevents
enemies from interdicting friendly forces, while freeing commanders to synchronize
movement and firepower. See also battlefield operating system. (FM 7-15)
air defense warning conditions - (DOD) A degree of air raid probability according to the
following code. The term “air defense division/sector” referred to herein may include forces
and units afloat and/or deployed to forward areas, as applicable. a. Air defense warning
yellow—attack by hostile aircraft and/or missiles is probable. This means that hostile
aircraft and/or missiles are en route toward an air defense division/sector, or unknown
aircraft and/or missiles suspected to be hostile are en route toward or are within an air
defense division/sector. b. Air defense warning red—attack by hostile aircraft and/or
missiles is imminent or in progress. This means that hostile aircraft and/or missiles are
within an air defense division/sector or are in the immediate vicinity of an air defense
division/sector with high probability of entering the division/sector. c. Air defense warning
white—attack by hostile aircraft and/or missiles is improbable. May be called either before
or after air defense warning yellow or red. The initial declaration of air defense emergency
will automatically establish a condition of air defense warning other than white for purposes
of security control of air traffic. See FM 44-100.
air defense weapon control status - The degree of fire control imposed upon Army units
having assigned, attached, or organic air defense weapons. Weapons control status terms
are: a. Weapons free—a weapon control order imposing a status whereby weapons systems
may be fired at any target not positively recognized as friendly. b. Weapons hold—a
weapon control order imposing a status whereby weapons systems may only be fired in self-
defense or in response to a formal order. c. Weapons tight—a weapon control order
imposing a status whereby weapons systems may be fired only at targets recognized as
hostile. (FM 44-100)
airdrop - (DOD) The unloading of personnel or materiel from aircraft in flight. See also air
movement. See FM 100-17.
airhead - (DOD, NATO) 1. A designated area in a hostile or threatened territory which, when
seized and held, ensures the continuous air landing of troops and materiel and provides the
maneuver space necessary for projected operations. Normally it is the area seized in the
assault phase of an airborne operation. 2. A designated location in an area of operations used
as a base for supply and evacuation by air. See also air assault operation; airborne
operation. See FM 90-26. (See page 7-34 for symbol.)
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
airhead line - (DOD) A line denoting the limits of the objective area for an airborne assault.
The airhead line is bounded by assault objectives that are operationally located to ensure
that enemy fires cannot be brought to bear on the main objective and for friendly forces to
conduct defensive operations in depth. See also air assault operation; airborne
operation. See FM 3-90. (See page 7-34 for symbol.)
air interdiction - (DOD, NATO) Air operations conducted to destroy, neutralize, or delay the
enemy’s military potential before it can be brought to bear effectively against friendly forces
at such distance from friendly forces that detailed integration of each air mission with the
fire and movement of friendly forces is not required. Also called AI. See FM 3-04.111.
air landed - (DOD, NATO) Moved by air and disembarked or unloaded after the aircraft has
landed or while a helicopter is hovering. See also air assault operation; airborne
operation. See FM 90-26.
air liaison officer - (DOD) An officer (aviator/pilot or naval flight officer) attached to a ground
unit who functions as the primary advisor to the ground commander on air operation
matters. Also called ALO. See also tactical air control party. See FM 3-04.111.
air mission brief - 1. The last coordination meeting of key participants in an air assault
operation which ensures that key aviation soldiers are briefed and that the plan is finalized.
It covers the operation from beginning to end. 2. Briefing of the pilots prior to any aviation
mission. Also called AMB. See also abort criteria; air assault operation; airhead; air
mission commander. (FM 3-04.111)
air mission commander - (Army) Commander of the largest aviation unit supporting the air
assault operation. He is responsible for all embarked soldiers and for coordinating all support
from liftoff to touchdown. (FM 3-04.111) (Marine Corps) A mission commander, who shall be
a properly qualified naval aviator or naval flight officer, should be designated when separate
aircraft formations, each led by its own formation leader, are required for a common support
mission or whenever a formation of four or more aircraft must perform a multiple sortie
mission. The mission commander shall direct a coordinated plan of action and shall be
responsible for the effectiveness of the mission. Also called AMC. See also abort criteria;
air assault operation; air mission brief.
air movement - (DOD, NATO) Air transport of aircraft, units, personnel, supplies, and
equipment, including airdrops and air landings. See also aerial port of embarkation;
aerial port of debarkation; airdrop; air landed; tanker airlift control element. See
FM 55-1.
air parity - The functional equivalency between enemy and friendly air forces in strength and
capability to attack and destroy targets. (FM 3-04.111)
air reconnaissance - (DOD) The acquisition of information by employing visual observation
and/or sensors in air vehicles. See also reconnaissance. See FM 34-1.
airspace control area - (DOD) Airspace that is laterally defined by the boundaries of the
operational area. The airspace control area may be subdivided into airspace control sectors.
See FM 3-52.
airspace control authority - (DOD, NATO) The commander designated to assume overall
responsibility for the operation of the airspace control system in the airspace control area.
Also called ACA. See also airspace control area. See FM 3-52.
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
airspace control in the combat zone - (DOD) A process used to increase combat effectiveness
by promoting the safe, efficient, and flexible use of airspace. Airspace control is provided in
order to prevent fratricide, enhance air defense operations, and permit greater flexibility of
operations. Airspace control does not infringe on the authority vested in commanders to
approve, disapprove, or deny combat operations. Also called airspace control and combat
airspace control. See also airspace control authority; airspace control order;
airspace coordination area. See FM 3-52.
airspace control measures - Rules, mechanisms, and directions governed by joint doctrine
and defined by the airspace control plan which control the use of airspace of specified
dimensions. See also high-density airspace control zone; low-level transit route;
minimum-risk route; standard use Army aircraft flight route. (FM 3-52) (See page 7-
19 for symbol.)
airspace control order - (DOD) An order implementing the airspace control plan that provides
the details of the approved requests for airspace control measures. It is published either as
part of the air tasking order or as a separate document. Also called ACO. See FM 3-52.
airspace coordination area - (DOD) A three-dimensional block of airspace in a target area,
established by the appropriate ground commander, in which friendly aircraft are reasonably
safe from friendly surface fires. The airspace coordination area may be formal or informal.
Also called ACA. See also Army airspace command and control. See FM 3-52. (See page
7-37 for symbol.)
air strike - (DOD) An attack on specific objectives by fighter, bomber, or attack aircraft on an
offensive mission. May consist of several air organizations under a single command in the
air. See FM 3-04.111.
air superiority - (DOD, NATO) That degree of dominance in the air battle of one force over
another which permits the conduct of operations by the former and its related land, sea, and
air forces at a given time and place without prohibitive interference by the opposing force.
See FM 3-04.111.
air support operations center - (DOD, NATO) An agency of a tactical air control system
collocated with a corps headquarters or an appropriate land force headquarters, which
coordinates and directs close air support and other tactical air support. Also called ASOC.
See FM 3-52.
air supremacy - (DOD, NATO) That degree of air superiority wherein the opposing air force is
incapable of effective interference. See FM 3-04.111.
air surveillance - (DOD) The systematic observation of airspace by electronic, visual, or other
means, primarily for the purpose of identifying and determining the movements of aircraft
and missiles, friendly and enemy, in the airspace under observation. See FM 34-1.
air terminal - (DOD) A facility on an airfield that functions as an air transportation hub and
accommodates the loading and unloading of airlift aircraft and the in-transit processing of
traffic. The airfield may or may not be designated an aerial port. See FM 55-60.
all after - A procedure word meaning, “The portion of the message to which I have reference is
all that follows (insert text).” See also procedure word. (FM 24-19)
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
all before - A procedure word meaning, “The portion of the message to which I have reference is
all that precedes (insert text).” See also procedure word. (FM 24-19)
alliance - (DOD) The result of formal agreements (i.e., treaties) between two or more nations for
broad, long-term objectives that further the common interests of the members. See also
coalition; multinational operations. See FM 100-8.
allocated forces and resources - Those forces provided by the President and the Secretary of
Defense or their duly deputized alternates or successors for execution planning or actual
implementation. (FM 3-0)
allocation - (DOD) In a general sense, distribution of limited resources among competing
requirements for employment. Specific allocations (e.g., air sorties, nuclear weapons, forces,
and transportation) are described as allocation of air sorties, nuclear weapons, etc. See also
apportionment. See FM 100-12.
allowable load - (DOD, NATO) The total load that an aircraft can transport over a given
distance, taking into account weight and volume. See FM 100-17.
all-source intelligence - (DOD) 1. Intelligence products and/or organizations and activities
that incorporate all sources of information, most frequently including human resources
intelligence, imagery intelligence, measurement and signature intelligence, signals
intelligence, and open-source data in the production of finished intelligence. 2. In intelligence
collection, a phrase that indicates that in the satisfaction of intelligence requirements, all
collection, processing, exploitation, and reporting systems and resources are identified for
possible use and those most capable are tasked. (Army) - Intelligence that is produced
through the analysis of all available information obtained through intelligence, surveillance,
and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. (FM 34-1)
alternate command post - (DOD) Any location designated by a commander to assume
command post functions in the event the command post becomes inoperative. It may be
partially or fully equipped and manned or it may be the command post of a subordinate unit.
See also combat trains command post; command post; tactical operations center.
alternate position - A defensive position that the commander assigns to a unit or weapon for
occupation when the primary position becomes untenable or unsuitable for carrying out the
assigned task. See also primary position; successive positions; supplementary
position. (FM 3-90)
alternate supply route - A route or routes designated within an area of operations to provide
for the movement of traffic when main supply routes become disabled or congested. Also
called ASR. See also main supply route. (FM 4-0) (See page 7-69 for symbol.)
ambulance control point - Consists of a soldier (from the ambulance company or platoon)
stationed at a crossroad or road junction where ambulances may take one of two or more
directions to reach loading points. The soldier, knowing from which location each loaded
ambulance has come, directs empty ambulances returning from the rear. The need for
control points is dictated by the tactical situation. Generally, they are more necessary in the
forward area. (FM 4-02.6)
ambulance exchange point - (DOD) A location where a patient is transferred from one
ambulance to another en route to a medical treatment facility. This may be an established
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
point in an ambulance shuttle system or it may be designated independently. Also called
AXP. See FM 4-02.6. (See page 7-62 for symbol.)
ambulance shuttle system - An effective and flexible method of employing ambulances during
combat. It consists of one or more ambulance loading points, relay points, and, when
necessary, ambulance control points, all echeloned forward from the principal group of
ambulances, the company location, or basic relay points as tactically required.
(When
patients are being transported by litter carriers, this system is referred to as a litter shuttle
system). (FM 4-02.6)
ambush - (Army) A form of attack by fire or other destructive means from concealed positions
on a moving or temporarily halted enemy. (FM 3-0) (Marine Corps) A surprise attack by fire
from concealed positions on a moving or temporarily halted enemy. (See page 7-33 for
symbol.)
ammunition supply point - An area designated to receive, store, reconfigure, and issue Class
V material. It is normally located at or near the division area. Also called ASP. See also
classes of supply. (FM 9-6) (See page 7-68 for symbol.)
ammunition transfer point - A designated temporary site from which Class V material is
transferred from corps transportation to unit vehicles. Also called ATP. See also classes of
supply. (FM 4-0) (See page 7-68 for symbol.)
amphibious force - (DOD, NATO) An amphibious task force and a landing force, together with
other forces that are trained, organized and equipped for amphibious operations. [Note: the
NATO definition replaces “amphibious task force” with “naval force” and “other forces” with
“supporting force.”] (NATO only) In naval usage, the administrative title of the amphibious
type command of a fleet. Also called AF. See also amphibious operation; amphibious
task force; landing force.
amphibious operation - (DOD) A military operation launched from the sea by an amphibious
force, embarked in ships or craft with the primary purpose of introducing a landing force
ashore to accomplish the assigned mission. See also action phase; amphibious force;
amphibious task force; embarkation phase; landing force; mission; movement
phase; operation; planning phase; rehearsal phase.
amphibious task force - (DOD) A Navy task organization formed to conduct amphibious
operations. The amphibious task force, together with the landing force and other forces,
constitutes the amphibious force. See also amphibious force; amphibious operation;
landing force.
analysis
(intelligence)
- The process by which collected information is evaluated and
integrated with existing information to produce intelligence that describes the current, and
predicts the future, impact of the threat and/or environment on operations. (FM 34-3)
analysis and control element - A military intelligence organization under operational control
to the G-2. The analysis and control element (ACE) is the primary military intelligence
organization that assists the G-2 in synchronizing all reconnaissance and surveillance
activities, and supporting the G-3 in integrating reconnaissance and surveillance tasks into
the operation. The ACE also provides technical guidance, produces all-source intelligence,
and disseminates targeting and intelligence data, as well as providing the threat and
environmental portion of the common operational picture. Also called ACE. (FM 34-1)
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
analysis and control team - An organic team within the direct support military intelligence
company that supports the maneuver brigade through situation development, intelligence
preparation of the battlefield, and other intelligence tasks by the use of automated
intelligence processing, analytical and dissemination capabilities. Also called ACT. (FM 34-1)
angle of depression - (NATO) 1. The angle in a vertical plane between the horizontal and a
descending line. 2. In air photography, the angle between the optical axis of an obliquely
mounted air camera and the horizon. Also called depression angle.
angle of safety - (NATO) The minimum permissible angular clearance, at the gun, of the path
of a projectile above the friendly troops. It is the angle of clearance corrected to insure the
safety of the troops. Also called safety angle.
angle T - (NATO) In artillery and naval fire support, the angle formed by the intersection of the
gun-target line and the observer-target line. [Note: the Army definition also applies to
mortar fire.] See FM 6-30.
antiterrorism - (DOD) Defensive measures used to reduce the vulnerability of individuals and
property to terrorist acts, to include limited response and containment by local military
forces. Also called AT. See also counterterrorism; terrorism.
apportionment - (DOD) In the general sense, distribution for planning of limited resources
among competing requirements. Specific apportionments (e.g., air sorties and forces for
planning) are described as apportionment of air sorties and forces for planning, etc. See also
allocation. See 100-12.
approach march - (DOD, NATO) Advance of a combat unit when direct contact with the enemy
is imminent. Troops are fully or partially deployed. The approach march ends when ground
contact with the enemy is made or when the attack position is occupied. See also movement
to contact. See FM 3-0.
area air defense commander - (DOD) Within a unified command, subordinate unified
command, or joint task force, the commander will assign overall responsibility for air defense
to a single commander. Normally, this will be the component commander with the
preponderance of air defense capability and the command, control, and communications
capability to plan and execute integrated air defense operations. Representation from other
components involved will be provided, as appropriate, to the area air defense commander’s
headquarters. Also called AADC. See FM 44-100.
area assessment - (DOD) The commander’s prescribed collection of specific information that
commences upon employment and is a continuous operation. It confirms, corrects, refutes, or
adds to previous intelligence acquired from area studies and other sources prior to
employment.
(Army) In unconventional warfare, the collection of specific information
prescribed by the commander to commence immediately after infiltration. It is a continuous
operation, and it confirms, corrects, refutes, or adds to intelligence required from area
studies or other sources prior to infiltration. (FM 100-25)
area command - (DOD, NATO) A command which is composed of those organized elements of
one or more Armed Services, designated to operate in a specific geographical area, which are
placed under a single commander. (Army) In unconventional warfare, the organizational
structure established within a joint special operations area to command and control
resistance forces. It consists of the area commander, his staff, and representatives of the
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
resistance element, to include special forces after infiltration. See also command. (FM 100-
25)
area damage control - (DOD, NATO) Measures taken before, during, or after hostile action or
natural or manmade disasters to reduce the probability of damage and minimize its effects.
Also called ADC. See FM 3-07.
area defense - A type of defensive operation that concentrates on denying enemy forces access
to designated terrain for a specific time rather than destroying the enemy outright. (FM 3-0)
area of influence - (DOD, NATO) A geographical area wherein a commander is directly
capable of influencing operations by maneuver and fire support systems normally under the
commander’s command or control. See FM 3-90.
area of intelligence responsibility - (DOD) An area allocated to a commander in which the
commander is responsible for the provision of intelligence within the means at the
commander’s disposal. Also called AOIR. See also area of interest; area of
responsibility.
area of interest - (DOD) That area of concern to the commander, including the area of
influence, areas adjacent thereto, and extending into enemy territory to the objectives of
current or planned operations. This area also includes areas occupied by enemy forces who
could jeopardize the accomplishment of the mission. See also area of influence; area of
operations; battlespace. See FM 3-0.
area of limitation - (DOD) A defined area where specific limitations apply to the strength and
fortifications of disputing or belligerent forces. Normally, upper limits are established for the
number and type of formations, tanks, antiaircraft weapons, artillery, and other weapons
systems in the area of limitation. See also line of demarcation; peace operations. See
FM 3-07.
area of operations - (DOD) An operational area defined by the joint force commander for land
and naval forces. Areas of operations do not typically encompass the entire operational area
of the joint force commander, but should be large enough for component commanders to
accomplish their missions and protect their forces. Also called AO. See also area of
interest; area of responsibility; battlespace; joint operations area; joint special
operations area. See FM 3-0. (See page 7-35 for symbol.)
area of responsibility - (DOD) The geographical area associated with a combatant command
within which a combatant commander has authority to plan and conduct operations. Also
called AOR. See also area of intelligence responsibility; combatant command. See FM
3-0.
area of separation - See buffer zone.
area reconnaissance - A form of reconnaissance operations that is a directed effort to obtain
detailed information concerning the terrain or enemy activity within a prescribed area.
[Note: the Marine Corps definition adds “such as a town, ridge, line, woods, or other features
critical to operations."] See also reconnaissance. (FM 3-90)
area security - A form of security operations conducted to protect friendly forces, installation
routes, and actions within a specific area. See also area reconnaissance. (FM 3-90)
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
area, structures, capabilities, organizations, people, and events - See ASCOPE.
area support - Method of logistics, combat health support, and human resources support in
which direct support (DS) combat service support relationships in effect are determined by
the location of the units requiring support. Subordinate DS units provide area support to
units located in or passing through their areas of responsibility. (FM 4-0)
ARFOR - The senior Army headquarters and all Army forces assigned or attached to a
combatant command, subordinate joint force command, joint functional command, or
multinational command. See also joint force land component commander. (FM 3-0)
armed helicopter - (DOD, NATO) A helicopter fitted with weapons or weapon systems. See FM
1-112. (See page 6-27 for symbol.)
armistice demarcation line - (DOD) A geographically defined line from which disputing or
belligerent forces disengage and withdraw to their respective sides following a truce or cease
fire agreement. Also called cease fire line in some United Nations operations. Also called
ADL. See also cease fire; peace operations. See FM 3-07.
Army air movements - Operations involving the use of utility and rotary wing assets for other
than air assaults. (FM 3-90)
Army airspace command and control - The Army’s application of airspace control to
coordinate airspace users for concurrent employment in the accomplishment of assigned
missions. Also called A2C2. See also airspace control order. (FM 3-52)
Army Computer Emergency Response Team - A team that prevents, detects, assesses, and
reports Army information systems security incidents. Also called ACERT. (FM 3-13)
Army reserve war stock - Materiel amassed in peacetime to meet the increase in military
requirements at the outbreak of war. (FM 4-0)
Army service component command -The senior Army echelon in a theater and the Army
component of a unified command. It includes the service component commander and all
Army personnel, organizations, units, and installations that have been assigned to the
unified command. (FM 100-7) (See page 5-36 for symbols.)
Army special operations forces - (DOD) Those Active and Reserve Component Army forces
designated by the Secretary of Defense that are specifically organized, trained, and equipped
to conduct and support special operations. Also called ARSOF. See FM 100-25.
Army special operations task force - A temporary or semi-permanent grouping of Army
special operations forces units under one commander formed to carry out specific operations
or a continuing mission. Also called ARSOTF. (FM 100-25)
artillery preparation - Artillery fire delivered before an attack to destroy, neutralize, or
suppress the enemy’s defense and to disrupt communications and disorganize the enemy’s
defense. A direct support field artillery battalion or higher echelon in coordination plans the
preparation with the ground commander. It is an intense volume of fire delivered in
accordance with a time schedule. The fires normally commence prior to H-hour and may
extend beyond it. They may start at a prescribed time or be held on call. The duration of the
preparation is influenced by factors such as the fire support needs of the entire force, number
of targets and firing assets, and available ammunition. (FM 6-20-30)
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
art of command - The conscious and skillful exercise of the authority to fulfill command
responsibilities through visualizing, deciding, directing, and leading. Art, as opposed to
science, requires expert performance of a specific skill using intuitive faculties that cannot be
solely learned by study or education. (FM 6-0)
art of tactics - The art of tactics consists of three interrelated aspects: the creative and flexible
array of means to accomplish assigned missions, decisionmaking under conditions of
uncertainty when faced with an intelligent enemy, and understanding the human dimension
- the effects of combat on soldiers. (FM 3-90)
ASCOPE - A memory aid for the characteristics considered under civil considerations: areas,
structures, capabilities, organizations, people, events. (FM 6-0)
assailable flank - A flank which is exposed to attack or envelopment. (FM 3-90)
assault - (DOD) 1. The climax of an attack, closing with the enemy in hand-to-hand fighting.
See FM 3-90. 2. To make a short, violent, but well-ordered attack against a local objective,
such as a gun emplacement, a fort, or a machine gun nest. See FM 3-90. 3. A phase of an
airborne operation beginning with delivery by air of the assault echelon of the force into the
objective area and extending through attack of assault objectives and consolidation of the
initial airhead. See FM 90-26. See also amphibious operation; assault force.
assault command post - An austere temporary command post established to perform critical
command and control functions. The assault command post serves as the early link in the
assault or deployment between the forces on the ground and the next higher tactical force
headquarters. Doctrinal command post functions are passed to the tactical, main, and rear
command posts when they arrive and become operational. See also command post; main
command post; rear command post; tactical command post. (See page 5-39 for
symbol.)
assault echelon - (DOD) In amphibious operations, the element of a force comprised of tailored
units and aircraft assigned to conduct the initial assault on the operational area. (NATO)
The element of a force which is scheduled for initial assault on the objective area. See also
amphibious operation. See FM 3-90.
assault fire - (DOD) 1. That fire delivered by attacking troops as they close with the enemy. See
FM 7-8. 2. In artillery, extremely accurate, short-range destruction fire at point targets. See
FM 6-30.
assault force - 1. In an amphibious, airborne, or air assault operation, those units charged with
the seizure of the objective or lodgment area. (FM 90-26) 2. Those forces charged with
passing through a breach in an enemy fortified position or strong point and seizing an
objective or completing the destruction of the enemy. (FM 3-34.2) 3. Those forces charged
with the seizure of the objective in the attack. (FM 7-20) See also breach force; support
force.
assault phase - (DOD, NATO) In an airborne operation, a phase beginning with delivery by air
of the assault echelon of the force into the objective area and extending through attack of
assault objectives and consolidation of the initial airhead. See FM 90-26. (Army) That period
during an attack which begins when the assault forces advance from their assault position
and ends when the objective has been seized and consolidated. (FM 3-90). See also air
assault operation; airborne operation; amphibious operation; river crossing.
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
assault position - (Army) A covered and concealed position short of the objective, from which
final preparations are made to assault the objective. (FM 3-90) (Marine Corps) That position
between the line of departure and the objective in an attack from which forces assault the
objective. Ideally, it is the last covered and concealed position before reaching the objective
(primarily used by dismounted infantry). See also limit of advance; probable line of
deployment. (See page 7-31 for symbol.)
assault time - The assault time establishes the moment to attack the initial objective
throughout the geographical scope of the operation. (FM 3-90)
assembly area - (DOD, NATO) - 1. An area in which a command is assembled preparatory to
further action. 2. In a supply installation, the gross area used for collecting and combining
components into complete units, kits, or assemblies. (Army) The area a unit occupies to
prepare for an operation. Also called AA. (FM 3-90) (See page 7-16 for symbol.)
assessment - (DOD) 1. Analysis of the security, effectiveness, and potential of an existing or
planned intelligence activity. 2. Judgment of the motives, qualifications, and characteristics
of present or prospective employees or
“agents.”
(Army) The continuous monitoring—
throughout planning, preparation, and execution—of the current situation and progress of an
operation and the evaluation of it against criteria of success to make decisions and
adjustments. (FM 3-0).
asset
(intelligence)
-
(DOD) Any resource—person, group, relationship, instrument,
installation, or supply—at the disposition of an intelligence organization for use in an
operational or support role. Often used with a qualifying term, such as agent asset or
propaganda asset.
assign - (DOD, NATO) 1. To place units or personnel in an organization where such placement
is relatively permanent, and/or where such organization controls and administers the units
or personnel for the primary function, or greater portion of the functions, of the unit or
personnel. 2. To detail individuals to specific duties or functions where such duties or
functions are primary and/or relatively permanent. See also attach. See FM 6-0.
assigned forces - Those forces that have been placed under the combatant command (command
authority) of a unified commander by the Secretary of Defense. Forces and resources so
assigned are available for normal peacetime operations of that command. (FM 3-0)
asymmetry - Dissimilarities in organization, equipment, doctrine, and values between other
armed forces (formally organized or not) and US forces. Engagements are symmetric if
forces, technologies, and weapons are similar; they are asymmetric if forces, technologies,
and weapons are different, or if a resort to terrorism and rejection of more conventional rules
of engagement are the norm. (FM 3-0)
attach - (DOD) 1. The placement of units or personnel in an organization where such placement
is relatively temporary. 2. The detailing of individuals to specific functions where such
functions are secondary or relatively temporary, e.g., attached for quarters and rations;
attached for flying duty. See also assign; operational command; operational control;
organic. See FM 6-0.
attack - (Army) An offensive operation that destroys or defeats enemy forces, seizes and secures
terrain, or both. (FM 3-0) (Marine Corps) An offensive action characterized by movement
supported by fire with the objective of defeating or destroying the enemy. See also
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
counterattack; deliberate attack; demonstration; feint; hasty attack; offensive
operations; raid; spoiling attack.
attack by fire - A tactical mission task in which a commander uses direct fires, supported by
indirect fires, to engage an enemy without closing with him to destroy, suppress, fix, or
deceive him. See also frontal attack; support by fire. (FM 3-90) (See page 7-32 for
symbol.)
attack by fire position - A position that designates the general position from which a unit
conducts the tactical mission task of attack by fire. See also attack by fire. (FM 3-90)
attack helicopter - (DOD, NATO) A helicopter specifically designed to employ various weapons
to attack and destroy enemy targets. See FM 1-112. (See page 6-27 for symbol.)
attack operations - One of the four operational elements of theater missile defense. Offensive
actions intended to destroy and disrupt enemy theater missile (TM) capabilities before,
during, and after launch. The objective of attack operations is to prevent the launch of TMs
by attacking each element of the overall system, including such actions as destroying launch
platforms; reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) platforms; command
and control nodes; and missile stocks and infrastructure. This is the preferred method of
countering enemy TM operations. See also active defense; passive defense; theater
missile defense. (FM 100-12)
attack position - (DOD) The last position occupied by the assault echelon before crossing the
line of departure. See also assault position. See FM 3-90. (See page 7-32 for symbols.)
authenticate - (DOD) A challenge given by voice or electrical means to attest the authenticity
of a message or transmission. See FM 11-32. (Army) A procedure word meaning, “The station
called is to reply to the challenge which follows (insert text)”. See also procedure word.
(FM 24-19)
authentication - (DOD) 1. A security measure designed to protect a communications system
against acceptance of a fraudulent transmission or simulation by establishing the validity of
a transmission, message, or originator. See FM 11-32. 2. A means of identifying individuals
and verifying their eligibility to receive specific categories of information. See FM 34-1.
3. Evidence by proper signature or seal that a document is genuine and official. 4. In evasion
and recovery operations, the process whereby the identity of an evader is confirmed. See FM
100-25.
authentication is - A procedure word meaning, “The transmission authentication of this
message is (insert text)”. See also procedure word. (FM 24-19)
authorized stockage list - A list of items from all classes of supply authorized to be stocked at
a specific echelon of supply. Also called ASL. (FM 4-0)
autoignition temperature - The temperature at which a chemical can spontaneously ignite.
(FM 3-100.4)
automatic resupply - (DOD) A resupply mission fully planned before insertion of a special
operations team into the operations area that occurs at a prearranged time and location,
unless changed by the operating team after insertion. See also emergency resupply; on-
call resupply. See FM 100-25.
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
auxiliary - In unconventional warfare, that element of the resistance force established to
provide the organized civilian support of the resistance movement. (FM 100-25)
avenue of approach - (DOD) An air or ground route of an attacking force of a given size
leading to its objective or to key terrain in its path. Also called AA. See FM 3-90.
aviation combat element - (Marine Corps) The core element of a Marine air-ground task force
(MAGTF) that is task-organized to conduct aviation operations. The aviation combat element
provides all or a portion of the six functions of Marine aviation necessary to accomplish the
MAGTF’s mission. These functions are antiair warfare, offensive air support, assault
support, electronic warfare, air reconnaissance, and control of aircraft and missiles. The
aviation combat element is usually composed of an aviation unit headquarters and various
other aviation units or their detachments. It can vary in size from a small aviation
detachment of specifically required aircraft to one or more Marine aircraft wings. In a joint
or multinational environment, the aviation combat element may contain other Service or
multinational forces assigned or attached to the MAGTF. The aviation combat element itself
is not a formal command. Also called ACE.
axis - (NATO) In land warfare, the general direction of movement, planned or achieved, usually
between assigned boundaries. See FM 3-90.
axis of advance - (DOD) A line of advance assigned for purposes of control; often a road or a
group of roads, or a designated series of locations, extending in the direction of the enemy.
(Army) An axis of advance designates the general area through which the bulk of a unit’s
combat power must move. See also attack; direction of attack; movement to contact;
offensive operations. (FM 3-90) (See page 7-28 for symbol.)
azimuth - (DOD) Quantities may be expressed in positive quantities increasing in a clockwise
direction, or in X, Y coordinates where south and west are negative. They may be referenced
to true north or magnetic north depending on the particular weapon system used. (Army)
The horizontal angle, measured clockwise by degrees or mils between a reference direction
and the line to an observed or designated point. There are three base (reference) directions or
azimuths: true, grid, and magnetic azimuth. See also grid azimuth; magnetic azimuth;
true azimuth. (FM 3-25.26)
azimuth angle - (DOD, NATO) An angle measured clockwise in the horizontal plane between a
reference direction and any other line. See FM 3-25.26.
—B—
backbrief - A briefing by subordinates to the commander to review how subordinates intend to
accomplish their mission. (FM 101-5)
backhaul - The use of transportation assets that, having deposited their primary loads, are
available to remove personnel and materials from that location to another location en route
to their return destination. (FM 55-1)
back tell - (DOD, NATO) The transfer of information from a higher to a lower echelon of
command. See also track telling.
ballistic missile - (DOD, NATO) Any missile which does not rely upon aerodynamic surfaces to
produce lift and consequently follows a ballistic trajectory when thrust is terminated. See FM
44-100.
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
bangalore torpedo - A manually emplaced, explosive-filled pipe that was designed as a wire
breaching device, but is also effective against simple pressure activated antipersonnel mines.
It is issued as a demolition kit and consists of ten 1.5-meter tubes. Each tube contains 4
kilograms of high explosives and weighs 6 kilograms. A kit clears a 1-meter by 15-meter
lane. (FM 3-34.2)
barrage - (DOD) 1. A prearranged barrier of fires, except that delivered by small arms,
designed to protect friendly troops and installations by impeding enemy movements across
defensive lines or areas. See FM 6-30. 2. A protective screen of balloons that is moored to the
ground and kept at given heights to prevent or hinder operations by enemy aircraft. This
meaning also called barrage balloon.
3. A type of electronic attack intended for
simultaneous jamming over a wide area of frequency spectrum. See FM 34-45.
barrage fire - (DOD, NATO) Fire which is designed to fill a volume of space or an area rather
than aimed specifically at a given target. See also call for fire. See FM 6-30.
barrage jamming - (DOD) Simultaneous electromagnetic jamming over a broad band of
frequencies. See also jamming. See FM 34-1.
barrier - (DOD) A coordinated series of obstacles designed or employed to channel, direct,
restrict, delay, or stop the movement of an opposing force and to impose additional losses in
personnel, time, and equipment on the opposing force. Barriers can exist naturally, be
manmade, or a combination of both. See also abatis; countermobility operations;
obstacle. See FM 5-100.
base - (DOD, NATO) 1. A locality from which operations are projected or supported. 2. An area
or locality containing installations which provide logistic or other support. 3. (DOD only)
Home airfield or home carrier. See FM 3-90.
base cluster - (DOD) In base defense operations, a collection of bases, geographically grouped
for mutual protection and ease of command and control. See also base. See FM 3-90.
base cluster operations center - (DOD) A command and control facility that serves as the
base cluster commander’s focal point for defense and security of the base cluster. Also called
BCOC. See also base cluster. See FM 3-90.
base defense - (DOD) The local military measures, both normal and emergency, required to
nullify or reduce the effectiveness of enemy attacks on, or sabotage of, a base, to ensure that
the maximum capacity of its facilities is available to US forces. See FM 3-90.
base defense operations center - (DOD) A command and control facility established by the
base commander to serve as the focal point for base security and defense. It plans, directs,
integrates, coordinates, and controls all base defense efforts, and coordinates and integrates
into area security operations with the rear area operations center/rear tactical operations
center. Also called BDOC. See FM 3-90. (See page 5-39 for symbol.)
base defense reaction forces - Forces comprised of personnel or elements of units assigned to
a specific base with the responsibility to rapidly bolster base defenses or react to an
unforeseen threat. (FM 3-90)
base defense zone - (DOD) An air defense zone established around an air base and limited to
the engagement envelope or short-range air defense weapons systems defending that base.
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
Base defense zones have specific entry, exit, and identification, friend or foe procedures
established. Also called BDZ. See also air defense; base defense. See FM 44-100.
base development (less force beddown) - (DOD) The acquisition, development, expansion,
improvement, and construction and/or replacement of the facilities and resources of an area
or location to support forces employed in military operations or deployed in accordance with
strategic plans. (NATO) The improvement or expansion of the resources and facilities of an
area or a location to support military operations. See also base. See FM 5-100.15
base element - See base unit.
baseline intelligence capabilities - Operational capabilities of fielded Army intelligence and
electronic warfare systems to detect intelligence targets, collect and process information, and
produce and disseminate intelligence on a threat. These system capabilities should be
grouped by discipline and assessed across all disciplines when evaluating detection,
collection, and processing capabilities against a threat. (FM 34-1)
base of fire - (Army/Marine Corps) Fire [Note: the Army definition specifies “direct fire” here]
placed on an enemy force or position to reduce or eliminate the enemy’s capability to
interfere by fire and/or movement with friendly maneuver element(s). It may be provided by
a single weapon or a grouping of weapons systems. See also overwatch; support by fire.
See FM 7-20.
base unit - (DOD) Unit of organization in a tactical operation around which a movement or
maneuver is planned and performed. See FM 3-90.
basic load - (DOD, NATO) The quantity of supplies required to be on hand within, and which
can be moved by, a unit or formation. It is expressed according to the wartime organization of
the unit or formation and maintained at the prescribed levels. See FM 10-27.
battalion - A unit consisting of two or more company-, battery-, or troop-sized units and a
headquarters. Also called bn. (FM 3-90) (See page 5-33 for symbol.)
battery - (DOD, NATO) 1. Tactical and administrative artillery unit or subunit corresponding
to a company or similar unit in other branches of the Army. See FM 6-20. 2. All guns, torpedo
tubes, searchlights, or missile launchers of the same size or caliber or used for the same
purpose, either installed in one ship or otherwise operating as an entity. (See page 5-33 for
symbol.)
battle - A set of related engagements that lasts longer and involves larger forces than an
engagement. See also campaign; engagement; major operation. (FM 3-0)
battle captain - The shift officer in charge within a command post, associated by position and
not rank. The battle captain is located in the operations section of a command post and
oversees the conduct of command post operations during his shift. The battle captain ensures
that relevant information is given to decisionmakers and works closely with all members of
the command group and staff.
battle command - The exercise of command in operations against a hostile, thinking enemy.
(FM 3-0)
battle damage assessment - (DOD) The timely and accurate estimate of damage resulting
from the application of military force, either lethal or nonlethal, against a predetermined
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
objective. Battle damage assessment can be applied to the employment of all types of weapon
systems (air, ground, naval, and special forces weapons systems) throughout the range of
military operations. Battle damage assessment is primarily an intelligence responsibility
with required inputs and coordination from the operators. Battle damage assessment is
composed of physical damage assessment, functional damage assessment, and target system
assessment. See FM 34-1. (Marine Corps) In Marine Corps usage, the timely and accurate
estimate of the damage resulting from the application of military force. Battle damage
assessment estimates physical damage to a particular target, functional damage to that
target, and the capability of the entire target system to continue its operations. Also called
BDA.
battle damage repair - (DOD) Essential repair, which may be improvised, carried out rapidly
in a battle environment in order to return damaged or disabled equipment to temporary
service. Also called BDR. See also cannibalize. See FM 4-30.3.
battle drill - Standardized actions made in response to common battlefield occurrences. They
are designed for rapid reaction situations. (FM 7-10)
battlefield coordination detachment - (DOD) An Army liaison provided by the Army
component or force commander to the air operations center (AOC) and/or to the component
designated by the joint force commander to plan, coordinate, and deconflict air operations.
The battlefield coordination detachment processes Army requests for air support, monitors
and interprets the land battle situation for the AOC, and provides the interface for exchange
of current intelligence and operational data. Also called BCD. See FM 100-13.
battlefield information coordination center - A subsection of the battalion and brigade S-2
section. It provides detailed control and coordination of intelligence collection, production,
and dissemination, thus freeing the S-2 from routine tasks so that he can better manage the
overall intelligence effort. Also called BICC. (FM 34-1)
battlefield operating systems - (Army) The physical means that tactical commanders use to
execute operations and accomplish missions assigned by superior tactical- and operational-
level commanders. The seven BOS are: a. intelligence system—the activity to generate
knowledge of and products portraying the enemy and the environmental features required by
a command planning, preparing, executing, and assessing operations; b. maneuver
system—the movement of forces to achieve a position of advantage with respect to enemy
forces. This system includes the employment of forces in combination with direct fire or fire
potential. This system also includes the conduct of tactical tasks associated with force
protection; c. fire support system—the collective and coordinated use of target-acquisition
data, indirect-fire weapons, fixed-wing aircraft, offensive information operations, and other
lethal and nonlethal means against targets located throughout an area of operations; d. air
defense system—protects the force from missile attack, air attack, and aerial surveillance
by any of the following: ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, conventional fixed- and rotary-wing
aircraft, and unmanned aerial vehicles. It prevents enemies from interdicting friendly forces,
while
freeing
commanders to synchronize
movement and firepower;
e. mobility/countermobility/ survivability system—mobility operations preserve the
freedom of maneuver of friendly forces; countermobility operations deny mobility to enemy
forces; survivability operations protect friendly forces from the effects of enemy weapon
systems; f. combat service support system—the support and services to sustain forces
during full spectrum operations; g. command and control system—collective tasks
associated with supporting the exercise of authority and direction by a properly designated
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
commander over assigned and available forces in the accomplishment of the mission. Also
called BOS. (FM 7-15)
battlefield organization - The allocation of forces in the area of operations by purpose. It
consists of three all-encompassing categories of operations: decisive, shaping, and sustaining.
See also decisive operations; shaping operations; sustaining operations. (FM 3-0)
battlefield psychological activities
-
(DOD, NATO) Planned psychological activities
conducted as an integral part of combat operations and designed to bring psychological
pressure to bear on enemy forces and civilians under enemy control in the battle area, to
assist in the achievement of operational and tactical objectives. See FM 3-05.30.
battle handover line - A designated phase line on the ground where responsibility transitions
from the stationary force to the moving force and vice versa. Also called BHL. See also
handover line. (FM 3-90)
battle position - (Army) 1. A defensive location oriented on a likely enemy avenue of approach.
(FM 3-90) 2. For attack helicopters, an area designated in which they can maneuver and fire
into a designated engagement area or engage targets of opportunity. (FM 1-112) (Marine
Corps)
1. In ground operations, a defensive location oriented on an enemy avenue of
approach from which a unit may defend. 2. In air operations, an airspace coordination area
containing fire points for attack helicopters. Also called BP. (See page 7-25 for symbol.)
battlespace - (DOD) The environment, factors, and conditions that must be understood to
successfully apply combat power, protect the force, or complete the mission. This includes air,
land, sea, space, and the included enemy and friendly forces; facilities; weather; terrain; the
electromagnetic spectrum; and the information environment within the operational areas
and areas of interest. See also electromagnetic spectrum; information environment;
intelligence preparation of the battlefield; intelligence preparation of the
battlespace. See FM 3-0.
beach capacity - (DOD, NATO) An estimate, expressed in terms of measurement tons, or
weight tons, of cargo that may be unloaded over a designated strip of shore per day. See FM
55-60.
beach group - See shore party
beachhead - (DOD, NATO) A designated area on a hostile or potentially hostile shore that,
when seized and held, ensures the continuous landing of troops and materiel, and provides
maneuver space requisite for subsequent projected operations ashore. See also amphibious
operation. See FM 7-10.
beaten zone - (DOD) The area on the ground upon which the cone of fire falls. See also cone of
fire. See FM 3-22.68.
begin morning civil twilight - (DOD) The period of time at which the sun is halfway between
beginning morning and nautical twilight and sunrise, when there is enough light to see
objects clearly with the unaided eye. At this time, light intensification devices are no longer
effective, and the sun is six degrees below the eastern horizon. Also called BMCT. See also
begin morning nautical twilight; end evening civil twilight; end of evening
nautical twilight. See FM 34-130.
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
begin morning nautical twilight - (DOD) The start of that period where, in good conditions
and in the absence of other illumination, enough light is available to identify the general
outlines of ground objects and conduct limited military operations. Light intensification
devices are still effective and may have enhanced capabilities. At this time the sun is 12
degrees below the eastern horizon. Also called BMNT. See also begin morning civil
twilight; end evening civil twilight; end of evening nautical twilight. See FM 34-130.
beleaguered - (DOD) A casualty who is a member of an organized element that has been
surrounded by a hostile force to prevent escape of its members. See also missing. See FM 4-
02.
be-prepared mission - A mission assigned to a unit that might be executed. It is generally a
contingency mission which will be executed because something planned has or has not been
successful. In planning priorities, it is planned after any on-order missions. See also on-
order mission. (FM 101-5)
besieged - (DOD) A casualty who is a member of an organized element that has been
surrounded by a hostile force, compelling it to surrender. See also missing. See FM 4-02.
biographical intelligence - (DOD) That component of intelligence that deals with individual
foreign personalities of actual or potential importance. (FM 34-1)
biological agent - (DOD) A microorganism that causes disease in personnel, plants, or animals
or causes the deterioration of materiel. See also biological marker; biological operation;
chemical agent. See FM 3-9.
biological marker - Characteristics of a biological agent (organism, virus, toxin, or product)
that are specific to the agent. See also biological agent. (FM 4-02.7)
biological operation - (DOD) Employment of biological agents to produce casualties in
personnel or animals and damage to plants. See also biological agent. See FM 3-9.
biological warfare agent definitive identification and confirmation
- The specific
identification of a suspect biological agent as to genus, species, serological type, or toxin. This
level of identification is by means of devices, materials, and/or technologies that are based on
two or more independent bio-marker results and using different methodologies. This level of
identification is performed in a reference laboratory with a broader variety of methodologies
available and highly skilled testing personnel, thus providing the highest levels of accuracy.
See also biological agent; biological marker; biological warfare agent field
confirmation identification; biological warfare agent presumptive identification.
(FM 4-02.7)
biological warfare agent field confirmation identification - Identification of a suspect
biological warfare agent by means of devices, materials, and/or technologies that are based
on detecting biological markers using two or more independent bio-marker results. See also
biological agent; biological marker; biological warfare agent definitive
identification and confirmation; biological warfare agent presumptive
identification. (FM 4-02.7)
biological warfare agent presumptive identification - Identification of a suspect biological
warfare agent by means of devices, materials, and/or technologies that are based on detecting
biological markers using a single methodology. The bio-markers and/or methodologies used
at this level of testing have significant limits to their accuracy. See also biological agent;
1-22
_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
biological marker; biological warfare agent definitive identification and
confirmation; biological warfare agent field confirmation identification. (FM 4-02.7)
black propaganda - (DOD, NATO) Propaganda that purports to emanate from a source other
than the true one. See FM 33-1-1.
blast effect - (DOD) Destruction of or damage to structures and personnel by the force of an
explosion on or above the surface of the ground. Blast effect may be contrasted with the
cratering and ground-shock effects of a projectile or charge that goes off beneath the surface.
See FM 5-250.
blind transmission - (DOD) Any transmission of information that is made without expectation
of acknowledgment. See FM 11-32.
blister agent - (DOD, NATO) A chemical agent which injures the eyes and lungs, and burns or
blisters the skin. Also called vesicant agent. See FM 3-7.
block - 1. A tactical mission task that denies the enemy access to an area or prevents his
advance in a direction or along an avenue of approach. 2. An obstacle effect that integrates
fire planning and obstacle effort to stop an attacker along a specific avenue of approach or to
prevent him from passing through an engagement area. See also contain; disrupt; fix;
turn. (FM 3-90) (See pages 7-49 and A-2 for symbol.)
blocking position - (DOD, NATO) A defensive position so sited as to deny the enemy access to
a given area or to prevent the enemy’s advance in a given direction. See also battle
position; block; strong point. See FM 3-90.
block minefield - A minefield used to achieve a block obstacle effect. Typically consists of a
series of minefields arrayed to affect the entire width of an avenue of approach, but in
relatively shallow depth. A block effect minefield is the most resource intensive type of
minefield and must be capable of defeating mechanical and dismounted breach efforts. (FM
90-7).
blood agent - (DOD, NATO) A chemical compound, including the cyanide group, that affects
bodily functions by preventing the normal utilization of oxygen by body tissues. See FM 3-07.
blood chit - (DOD) A small sheet of material depicting an American flag and a statement in
several languages to the effect that anyone assisting the bearer to safety will be rewarded.
See also civil affairs. See FM 41-10.
blowback - (DOD, NATO) 1. Escape, to the rear and under pressure, of gases formed during the
firing of the weapon. Blowback may be caused by a defective breech mechanism, a ruptured
cartridge case, or a faulty primer.
2. Type of weapon operation in which the force of
expanding gases acting to the rear against the face of the bolt furnishes all the energy
required to initiate the complete cycle of operation. A weapon which employs this method of
operation is characterized by the absence of any breech-lock or bolt-lock mechanism. See FM
6-50.
booby trap - (DOD) An explosive or nonexplosive device or other material deliberately placed to
cause casualties when an apparently harmless object is disturbed or a normally safe act is
performed. (NATO) A device designed, constructed, or adapted to kill or injure, which
functions when a person disturbs or approaches an apparently harmless object or performs
an apparently safe act. See FM 20-32. (See page 7-46 for symbol.)
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
bound - (DOD, NATO) 1. In land warfare, a single movement, usually from cover to cover, made
by troops often under enemy fire. 2. (DOD only) Distance covered in one movement by a unit
that is advancing by bounds. See FM 3-90.
boundary - (DOD) A line that delineates surface areas for the purpose of facilitating
coordination and deconfliction of operations between adjacent units, formations, or areas. See
also airhead; airspace coordination area; area of operations; bridgehead. See FM 3-
90. (See page 7-12 for symbols.)
bounding overwatch - A movement technique used when contact with enemy forces is
expected. The unit moves by bounds. One element is always halted in position to overwatch
another element while it moves. The overwatching element is positioned to support the
moving unit by fire or fire and movement. See also overwatch. (FM 3-90)
box formation - A unit formation with subordinate elements arranged in a box or square, or
two elements up and two elements back. It is a flexible formation that provides equal
firepower in all directions. It is generally used when the enemy location is known. This
formation can cause 50 percent of force to be decisively engaged at the same time, therefore
limiting the combat power available to maneuver against an enemy. See also column
formation; echelon formation; formation; line formation; movement formation; vee
formation; wedge formation. (FM 3-90)
bracketing - (DOD, NATO) A method of adjusting fire in which a bracket is established by
obtaining an over and a short along the spotting line, and then successively splitting the
bracket in half until a target hit or desired bracket is obtained. See FM 6-30.
branch - (DOD) 1. A subdivision of any organization. 2. A geographically separate unit of an
activity which performs all or part of the primary functions of the parent activity on a
smaller scale. Unlike an annex, a branch is not merely an overflow addition. 3. An arm of
service of the Army. 4. The contingency options built into the basic plan. A branch is used for
changing the mission, orientation, or direction of movement of a force to aid success of the
operation based on anticipated events, opportunities, or disruptions caused by enemy actions
and reactions. (Army) A contingency plan or course of action (an option built into the basic
plan or course of action) for changing the mission, disposition, orientation, or direction of
movement of the force to aid success of the current operation, based on anticipated events,
opportunities, or disruptions caused by enemy actions. Army forces prepare branches to
exploit success and opportunities, or to counter disruptions caused by enemy actions. FM 3-0.
See also contingency plan; course of action; operation order; sequel; wargaming.
breach - (Army) A tactical mission task in which the unit employs all available means to break
through or secure a passage through an enemy defense, obstacle, minefield, or fortification.
(FM 3-90) (Marine Corps) The employment of any means available to break through or
secure a passage through an obstacle. (See page A-2 for symbol.)
breach area - The area where a breaching operation occurs. The breach area is established and
fully defined by the higher headquarters of the unit conducting breaching operations. (FM 3-
34.2)
breach force - A combined arms force task-organized with the maneuver and engineer forces
necessary to reduce obstacles and create lanes through an obstacle to pass initial assault
forces through the lanes. See also assault force; support force. (FM 3-34.2)
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_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
breaching fundamentals - Suppress, obscure, secure, reduce, and assault (SOSRA) are the
breaching fundamentals that must be applied when breaching against a defending enemy.
These fundamentals will always apply, but they may vary based on the specific battlespace
situation. (FM 3-34.2)
breaching operations - Operations conducted to allow maneuver despite the presence of
obstacles. Breaching is a synchronized combined arms operation under the control of the
maneuver commander. Breaching operations begin when friendly forces detect an obstacle
and begin to apply the breaching fundamentals, and they end when battle handover has
occurred between follow-on forces and a unit conducting the breaching operation. (FM 3-34.2)
break - A procedure word meaning, “I hereby indicate the separation of the text from other
portions of the message.” See also procedure word. (FM 24-19)
breakbulk cargo - (DOD) Any commodity that, because of its weight, dimensions, or
incompatibility with other cargo, must be shipped by mode other than military van or
SEAVAN. (Army) Cargo which is not shipped in a container. (FM 10-1)
breakout - An operation conducted by an encircled force to regain freedom of movement or
contact with friendly units. It differs from other attacks only in that a simultaneous defense
in other areas of the perimeter must be maintained. See also encirclement; follow and
support; main body; rear guard; rupture. (FM 3-90)
breakthrough - A rupturing of the enemy’s forward defenses that occurs as a result of a
penetration. A breakthrough permits the passage of an exploitation force. See also attack;
exploitation; pursuit. (FM 3-90)
brevity code - (DOD, NATO) A code which provides no security but which has as its sole
purpose the shortening of messages rather than the concealment of their content. See FM 3-
54.10.
bridgehead - (DOD) An area of ground held or to be gained on the enemy’s side of an obstacle.
(Army) In river crossing operations, an area on the enemy’s side of the water obstacle that is
large enough to accommodate the majority of the crossing force, has adequate terrain to
permit defense of the crossing sites, provides security of crossing forces from enemy direct
fire, and provides a base for continuing the attack. (FM 90-13)
bridgehead force - A force that assaults across a river to secure the enemy side of a river (the
bridgehead) to allow the buildup and passage of a breakout force during river crossing
operations. (FM 90-13)
bridgehead line - (DOD, NATO) The limit of the objective area in the development of the
bridgehead. See also objective area. See FM 90-13. (See page 7-34 for symbol.)
brigade - (DOD) A unit usually smaller than a division to which are attached groups and/or
battalions and smaller units tailored to meet anticipated requirements. (Army) A unit
consisting of two or more battalions and a headquarters. Also called bde. (FM 3-90) (See
page 5-33 for symbol.)
brigade support area - A designated area in which combat service support elements from
division support command and corps support command provide logistic support to a brigade.
Also called BSA. (FM 7-30) (See page 7-70 for symbol.)
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
broadcast dissemination
- The simultaneous dissemination of combat information,
intelligence, targeting information, etc. to multiple terminals at multiple echelons in order to
provide immediate combat information and intelligence. (FM 34-1)
buffer zone - (DOD) A defined area controlled by a peace operations force from which disputing
or belligerent forces have been excluded. A buffer zone is formed to create an area of
separation between disputing or belligerent forces and reduce the risk of renewed conflict.
Also called area of separation in some United Nations operations. Also called BZ. See FM
3-07.
buildup - (DOD, NATO) The process of attaining prescribed strength of units and prescribed
levels of vehicles, equipment, stores, and supplies. Also may be applied to the means of
accomplishing this process. See FM 100-17.
bulk cargo - (DOD) That which is generally shipped in volume where the transportation
conveyance is the only external container, such as liquids, ore, or grain. (Army) Cargo with
dimensions less than oversized cargo and cargo that fits on a 463L aircraft pallet. (FM 4-
01.30).
bulk petroleum product - (DOD, NATO) A liquid petroleum product transported by various
means and stored in tanks or containers having an individual fill capacity greater than 250
liters. See FM 10-67.
bulk storage - (DOD) 1. Storage in a warehouse of supplies and equipment in large quantities,
usually in original containers, as distinguished from bin storage. 2. Storage of liquids, such
as petroleum products, in tanks, as distinguished from drum or packaged storage. See also
bulk cargo; bulk petroleum product. See FM 10-67.
bump plan - In movement, a plan that describes in detail which individuals and equipment in
each designated load or chalk has priority over the others. This plan is used when the means
of transportation (truck, helicopter, airplane, or ship) cannot carry all of a particular load.
See also chalk. (FM 55-1)
bypass - A tactical mission task in which the commander directs his unit to maneuver around
an obstacle, avoiding combat with an enemy force. (FM 3-90) (See pages 7-52 and A-2 for
symbol.)
bypass criteria - Measures during the conduct of an offensive operation established by higher
headquarters that specify the conditions and size under which enemy units and contact may
be avoided. (FM 3-90)
—C—
calculated risk - An exposure to chance of injury or loss when the commander can visualize the
outcome in terms of mission accomplishment or damage to the force, and judges the outcome
as worth the cost. (FM 6-0)
call for fire - (DOD, NATO) A request for fire containing data necessary for obtaining the
required fire on a target. See FM 6-30.
call forward area - 1. In river crossing operations, waiting areas within the crossing area
where final preparations are made. (FM 90-13) 2. In air movement, the area at the departure
airfield where plane loads are assembled in a ready condition prior to being directed to the
1-26
_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
loading ramp area. (FM 55-1) See also aerial port of embarkation; airborne; chalk;
staging area; tanker airlift control element.
camouflage - (DOD, NATO) The use of natural or artificial material on personnel, objects, or
tactical positions with the aim of confusing, misleading, or evading the enemy. See also
concealment; cover; deception; surveillance. See FM 7-10.
camp - A group of tents, huts, or shelters set up temporarily for troops, and more permanent
than a bivouac. A military post, temporary or permanent, may be called a camp.
campaign - (DOD) A series of related military operations aimed at accomplishing a strategic or
operational objective within a given time and space. See also campaign plan. See FM 3-0.
campaign plan - (DOD) A plan for a series of related military operations aimed at
accomplishing a strategic or operational objective within a given time and space. See also
campaign. See FM 3-0.
canalize - (DOD) To restrict operations to a narrow zone by use of existing or reinforcing
obstacles or by fire or bombing. (Army) A tactical mission task in which the commander
restricts enemy movement to a narrow zone by exploiting terrain coupled with the use of
obstacles, fires, or friendly maneuver. See also obstacle. (FM 3-90) (See page A-2 for
symbol.)
cancel - (NATO) In artillery and naval fire support, the term cancel, when coupled with a
previous order, other than an order for a quantity or type of ammunition, rescinds that order.
[Note: the Army definition also applies to mortar fire.] See FM 6-30.
cannibalize - (DOD) To remove serviceable parts from one item of equipment in order to install
them on another item of equipment. (NATO) To remove serviceable assemblies, sub-
assemblies or components from a repairable or serviceable item of equipment in order to
install them on another. See also battle damage assessment; battle damage repair. See
FM 4-30.3.
captured - (DOD) A casualty who has been seized as a result of action of an unfriendly military
or paramilitary force in a foreign country. See also missing. See FM 4-02.
captured document - Any document that was in the possession of a threat force that
subsequently comes into the hands of a friendly force, regardless of the origin of that
document. (FM 34-52)
casualty - (DOD) Any person who is lost to the organization by having been declared dead, duty
status-whereabouts unknown, missing, ill, or injured. (Army) Any person who is lost to his
organization by reason of having been declared dead, wounded, injured, diseased, interned,
captured, retained, missing in action, beleaguered, besieged, or detained. (FM 8-55)
casualty collection point
- A specific location where casualties are assembled to be
transported to a medical treatment facility, for example, a company aid post. Also called
CCP. (FM 8-10-6) (See page 7-62 for symbol.)
casualty evacuation - (DOD) The movement of casualties. It includes movement both to and
between medical treatment facilities. Any vehicle may be used to evacuate casualties. (Army)
A term used by nonmedical units to refer to the movement of casualties aboard nonmedical
vehicles or aircraft. (FM 8-10-6) (Marine Corps) The movement of the sick, wounded, or
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FM 1-02/MCRP 5-12A________________________________________________________________
injured. It begins at the point of injury or the onset of disease. It includes movement both to
and between medical treatment facilities. All units have an evacuation capability. Any
vehicle may be used to evacuate casualties. If a medical vehicle is not used it should be
replaced with one at the first opportunity. Similarly, aeromedical evacuation should replace
surface evacuation at the first opportunity. Also called CASEVAC.
casualty transport - See casualty evacuation.
C-day - (DOD) The unnamed day on which a deployment operation commences or is to
commence. The deployment may be movement of troops, cargo, weapon systems, or a
combination of these elements using any or all types of transport. The letter “C” will be the
only one used to denote the above. The highest command or headquarters responsible for
coordinating the planning will specify the exact meaning of C-day within the aforementioned
definition. The command or headquarters directly responsible for the execution of the
operation, if other than the one coordinating the planning, will do so in light of the meaning
specified by the highest command or headquarters coordinating the planning. See also
times. See FM 101-5.
cease engagement - (NATO) In air defense, a fire control order used to direct units to stop the
firing sequence against a designated target. Guided missiles already in flight will continue to
intercept. See also engage; hold fire. See FM 44-100.
cease fire - (DOD) 1. A command given to any unit or individual firing any weapon to stop
engaging the target. 2. A command given to air defense artillery units to refrain from firing
on, but to continue to track, an airborne object. Missiles already in flight will be permitted to
continue to intercept. See also call for fire; fire command; fire mission. See FM 6-50.
cease fire line - See armistice demarcation line.
cease loading - (NATO) In artillery and naval fire support, the command used during firing of
two or more rounds to indicate the suspension of inserting rounds into the weapon. [Note: the
Army definition also applies to mortar fire.] See FM 6-50.
cell
- (DOD) Small group of individuals who work together for clandestine or subversive
purposes. See FM 3-05.20.
centers of gravity - (DOD) Those characteristics, capabilities, or sources of power from which a
military force derives its freedom of action, physical strength, or will to fight. Also called
COGs. See also operational art; operational level of war. See FM 3-0
centigray - (DOD, NATO) A unit of absorbed dose of radiation (one centigray equals one rad).
See also decontamination. See FM 3-3-1.
chaff - (DOD) Radar confusion reflectors consisting of thin, narrow metallic strips of various
lengths and frequency responses, which are used to reflect echoes for confusion purposes.
Causes enemy radar guided missiles to lock on to it instead of the real aircraft, ship, or other
platform. See also deception. See FM 3-04.111.
chain of command - (DOD, NATO) The succession of commanding officers from a superior to a
subordinate through which command is exercised. Also called command channel. See FM
6-0.
1-28
_________________________________________________________________Operational Terms
chalk - Designated troops, equipment, or cargo that constitutes a complete aircraft load. See
also air assault; airborne; tanker airlift control element. (FM 90-26)
chalk number - (DOD, NATO) The number given to a complete load and to the transporting
carrier. See also chalk. See FM 90-26.
challenge - (DOD, NATO) Any process carried out by one unit or person with the object of
ascertaining the friendly or hostile character or identity of another. See also password. See
FM 11-43.
charge - (NATO) 1. The amount of propellant required for a fixed, semi-fixed, or separate
loading projectile, round or shell. It may also refer to the quantity of explosive filling
contained in a bomb, mine or the like. 2. In combat engineering, a quantity of explosive,
prepared for demolition purposes. See also cratering charge; shaped charge. See FM 5-
250.
check firing - (DOD, NATO) In artillery and naval gunfire support, a command to cause a
temporary halt in firing. [Note: the DOD definition also applies to mortar fire.] See also
cease fire; cease loading; fire mission. See FM 6-20-30.
checkpoint - (DOD, NATO) 1. A predetermined point on the surface of the Earth used as a
means of controlling movement, a registration target for fire adjustment, or reference for
location. 2. Center of impact; a burst center. 3. Geographical location on land or water above
which the position of an aircraft in flight may be determined by observation or by electrical
means. 4. A place where military police check vehicular or pedestrian traffic in order to
enforce circulation control measures and other laws, orders, and regulations. See FM 3-19.4.
(Army) Predetermined point on the ground used to control movement, tactical maneuver, and
orientation. Also called CP. (FM 3-90) (See page 7-42 for symbol.)
chemical agent - (DOD) Any toxic chemical intended for use in military operations. (NATO) A
chemical substance which is intended for use in military operations to kill, seriously injure,
or incapacitate personnel through its physiological effects. The term excludes riot control
agents, herbicides, and substances generating smoke and flames. See FM 3-9.
chemical defense - (DOD, NATO) The methods, plans, and procedures involved in establishing
and executing defensive measures against attack utilizing chemical agent. See also
chemical agent; decontamination; nuclear, biological, and chemical defense. See
FM 3-11.
chemical downwind message - A weather forecast valid for three 2-hour periods (6 hours).
The chemical downwind message forecasts wind direction, wind speed, air stability,
humidity, air temperature, and any significant weather. Also called CDM. See also
decontamination; mission-oriented protective posture. (FM 3-3-1)
chemical warfare - (DOD) All aspects of military operations involving the employment of
lethal and incapacitating munitions/agents and the warning and protective measures
associated with such offensive operations. Since riot control agents and herbicides are not
considered to be chemical warfare agents, those two items will be referred to separately or
under the broader term “chemical,” which will be used to include all types of chemical
munitions/agents collectively. Also called CW. See also chemical agent; chemical defense;
herbicide; riot control agent. See FM 3-11.
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