Navy Supplement To The Dod Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms NTRP 1-02
Navy Supplement To The Dod Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms NTRP 1-02
Navy Supplement To The Dod Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms NTRP 1-02
0411LP1055322
1 AUG 2006
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NTRP 1-02
August 2006
PUBLICATION NOTICE
ROUTING
1. NTRP 1-02 (AUG 2006), NAVY SUPPLEMENT TO THE DOD DICTIONARY OF
MILITARY AND ASSOCIATED TERMS, is available in the Navy Warfare Library. It
is effective upon receipt.
2. The terminology in this publication supplements Joint Publication 1-02 (JP 1-02), De-
partment of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms. It establishes and
standardizes the professional language used in the Navy Warfare Library (NWL).
3. Terms found in JP 1-02 are not contained within this publication unless their definitions
differ from the Navy usage nor are terms that are adequately defined in a standard colle-
giate dictionary.
4. While NTRP 1-02 draws heavily from NWL publication glossaries, it is not an NWL
master glossary. Terms defined in this publication also come from the main body text of
NWL publications that do not have glossaries and from widely used allied publications.
Terms with a narrow or limited applicability are not included, nor are specialist terms
that are defined in authoritative Navy and non-Navy technical documents and directives.
This notice should be duplicated for routing to cognizant personnel to keep them informed of changes to this publication.
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NTRP 1-02
CONTENTS
Page
No.
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NTRP 1-02
PREFACE
NTRP 1-02, Navy Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, establishes and stan-
dardizes the professional language used in the Navy Warfare Library. It applies to users of all Navy Warfare Li-
brary publications — especially to those who develop them and teach from them.
COMMANDER
NAVY WARFARE DEVELOPMENT COMMAND
ATTN: N5
686 CUSHING ROAD
NEWPORT RI 02841-1207
fleetpubs@nwdc.navy.mil
ORDERING DATA
Order printed copies of a publication using the Print on Demand (POD) system. A command may requisition a
publication using standard military standard requisitioning and issue procedure (MILSTRIP) procedures or the
Naval Supply Systems Command website called the Naval Logistics Library (www.nll.navsup.navy.mil). An ap-
proved requisition is forwarded to the specific DAPS site at which the publication’s electronic file is officially
stored. Currently, two copies are printed at no cost to the requester.
CHANGE RECOMMENDATIONS
Recommended changes to this publication may be submitted to the Navy Warfare Development Doctrine Discussion
Group, accessible through the Navy Warfare Development Command website at: http://www.nwdc.navy.smil.mil/.
When items for changes are considered urgent, send this information by message to NWDC. Clearly identify and
justify both the proposed change and its urgency. Information addressees should comment as appropriate. See ac-
companying sample for urgent change recommendation format on page 11.
Submit routine recommended changes to this publication at any time by using the accompanying routine change rec-
ommendation letter format on page 12 and mailing it to the address below or posting the recommendation on the
NWDC Doctrine Discussion Group site.
9 AUG 2006
NTRP 1-02
COMMANDER
NAVY WARFARE DEVELOPMENT COMMAND
DOCTRINE DIRECTOR (N5)
686 CUSHING ROAD
NEWPORT RI 02841-1207
CHANGE BARS
Revised text is indicated by a black vertical line in the outside margin of the page, like the one printed next to this
paragraph. The change bar indicates added or restated information. A change bar in the margin adjacent to the
chapter number and title indicates a new or completely revised chapter.
The following definitions apply to warnings, cautions, and notes used in this manual:
An operating procedure, practice, or condition that may result in injury or death if not
carefully observed or followed.
Note
WORDING
“Will” indicates future time. It never indicates any degree of requirement for application of a procedure.
AUG 2006 10
NTRP 1-02
FM ORIGINATOR
TO (Primary Review Authority)//JJJ//
INFO COMNAVWARDEVCOM NEWPORT RI//N5//
COMUSFLTFORCOM NORFOLK VA//JJJ//
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3. PROPOSED NEW TEXT (Include classification)
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NTRP 1-02
CHAPTER 1
Introduction
NTRP 1-02, Navy Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, (formerly NWP 1-02), es-
tablishes and standardizes the professional language of the U.S. Navy by defining the terminology, acronyms, and
abbreviations used in Navy Warfare Library publications. NTRP 1-02 supplements Joint Publication 1-02 (JP 1-02),
Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms. The vocabulary established by NTRP 1-02
should be used without alteration unless a distinctly different connotation is intended.
Chapter 2 establishes standard definitions for Navy terms. It does not include terms defined by JP 1-02 unless Navy
usage has a markedly different context or meaning. Terms that are adequately defined by or that have definitions that
can be derived from a standard collegiate dictionary are not included, nor are terms that have a very narrow, technical
application that is described in technical directives and manuals. In short, NTRP 1-02 is not simply a compilation of
Navy Warfare Library publication glossaries.
Chapter 3 establishes standard meanings for the most commonly used acronyms and abbreviations found in Navy
Warfare Library publications and should be used as defined unless a distinctly different connotation is intended.
Guidelines for using acronyms and abbreviations are provided in Appendix A of NTRP 1-02, Navy Warfare Library.
As a general rule, abbreviations defined in JP 1-02 or standard collegiate dictionaries are not included in NTRP 1-02.
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CHAPTER 2
absolute accuracy. For GPS and precision-guided munitions, the degree of closeness of a measured or com-
puted position of a point on the Earth’s surface with respect to its true position based on a standard model of
the Earth.
absorption. In underwater acoustics, the reduction of sound intensity caused by the conversion of sound energy
into heat as it passes through water.
acceptable risk. The portion of identified risk that is allowed to persist without further controls.
acceptable strike impact perimeter. A boundary determined (on imagery and/or grid reference numbers re-
lating to other intelligence products) by the tasking agency that identifies the acceptable zone where the impact
of weapons should cause no unacceptable collateral damage.
accompaniment. A system whereby merchant ships due to transit a shipping risk area are gathered together
and then transit the area, or that part of it which is considered particularly dangerous, in company with a war-
ship or warships, but without formal convoy organization.
accuracy. In relation to GPS and precision-guided munitions, the degree of conformity with a standard or the
degree of perfection attained in a measurement. Accuracy relates to the quality of a result, and it is distin-
guished from precision, which relates to the quality of the operation by which the result is obtained.
acoustic advantage. A situation that exists when the probability of own-ship gaining initial detection is
greater than that of an opposing threat, expressed in terms of percentage of probability of first detection.
acoustic disadvantage. A situation that exists when the probability of own-ship gaining initial detection is
less than that of an opposing threat, expressed in terms of percentage of probability of first detection.
acoustic noise. A general term referring to any undesired sound within a frequency band under scrutiny. Also
see ambient noise, background noise, and self-noise.
acoustic protective measures (APM). That division of acoustic warfare involving actions taken to ensure
friendly effective use of the underwater acoustic spectrum, despite the enemy’s use of acoustic energy. APM in-
volve antiacoustic warfare support measures and antiacoustic countermeasures, and may not involve underwa-
ter acoustic emissions.
acoustic screen. A blanket of air bubbles that entraps backscattered sound energy.
acoustic signature. 1. The noise output characteristic of, and identified with, a specific noise source (for ex-
ample, the noise output of a particular class of submarine). 2. In mine warfare, the characteristic pattern of the
target’s acoustic influence as detected by the mine.
active acoustic mine. A mine actuated by the reflection from a target of an acoustic-ranging signal emitted by
the mine.
active desmoking. Removing smoke and heat from the smoke control zone between the inner smoke bound-
ary and outer smoke boundary prior to extinguishing the fire to aid firefighting efforts and reduce smoke spread
in the ship.
active mine countermeasures. Use of ships, aircraft, systems, and personnel to locate and neutralize mines.
Active mine countermeasures are divided into two categories: minehunting and minesweeping.
active sonar. Method of detecting or tracking underwater or surface vessels by processing the echo of a trans-
mitted signal reflected from the target.
actuation counter. An antisweep device used in naval mines to delay firing of the detonator until the firing
mechanism has operated a predetermined number of times. Also called ship counter.
actuation level. The minimum influence signal level needed to actuate a mine. The level of intensity and the
duration of time that the influence field must be applied to satisfy the firing circuit requirements of the mine.
actuation probability. In naval mine warfare, the average probability of a given mine type being actuated by
one run of the sweep within the actuation width.
actuation probability area. A horizontal plane area within which the sweeper-sweep combination will inter-
cept an armed mine or its appendages with the necessary condition to cause a buoyant mine’s mooring to be
cut, a contact mine to be fired, or an influence mine to be actuated.
actuation width. The total area under an actuation curve to include the path width over which mines can be ac-
tuated. Also called the average firing width.
acute radiation syndrome. A combination of clinical syndromes occurring in stages, during a period of hours
to weeks after exposure, as radiation injury to various tissues and organs is expressed.
administrative group. In an amphibious operation, the agency responsible for administrative and special de-
tails in the objective area, to include repair and salvage; hydrographic surveys; laying of nets, buoys, and bea-
cons; initial harbor development and control; port control; boat pools; mail; and other tasks as assigned.
administrative plan. In an amphibious operation, a plan normally relating to and complementing the operation
plan or order that provides information and instructions covering the logistic and administrative support of the
operation.
advance. In maneuvering a ship, the distance gained in the direction of the original course when turning. Also
see transfer.
advance base. See “advanced base” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
advanced base functional component (ABFC). A grouping of personnel, facilities, equipment, supplies,
and materiel designed to perform a specific function or accomplish a mission at an advanced base.
advanced range. Present range combined with corrections and predictions necessary to compensate for
own-ship and target motion during time of flight, plus ballistic corrections and spots.
advanced traceability and control. A closed-loop, transportation hub-and-spoke operation for the collection
and consolidation of depot level repairables that are received from fleet customers and technically screened for
repair, stowage, or disposal and then shipped to the appropriate site.
advance party. A task organization formed by the Marine air-ground task force commander that consists of
personnel designated to form the nucleus of arrival and assembly organizations in support of maritime
prepositioning force operations, amphibious embarkation, or contingency or training deployments. The primary
task of the advance party is to arrange for the reception of the main body.
advance tactical support base (ATSB). A base located in an area of operations for the purpose of providing
support for the craft and forces operating in the forward area. Base planning and construction is such that it can
be moved to another location with minimum difficulty in the event that the area of operation shifts. An ATSB
normally has a minimum craft repair capability, fuel, ammunition, water, food, and medical facilities.
advisory control. A mode of control under which the aircraft commander selects speed, altitude, and heading
and has freedom of action to accomplish the assigned task. The aircraft control unit informs the aircraft of the
current tactical situation and provides adequate warnings of hazards affecting aircraft safety. The aircraft com-
mander is responsible for the aircraft’s navigation and collision avoidance. Also see positive control in DOD
Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html.
aerial port of debarkation (APOD). A station that serves as an authorized port to process and clear aircraft
and other traffic for entrance to the country where located. Also see “port of debarkation” in DOD Dictionary
(JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
aerial port of embarkation (APOE). A station that serves as an authorized port to process and clear aircraft
and traffic for departure from the country where located. Also see “port of embarkation” in DOD Dictionary
(JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
aeromedical evacuation certification. The culmination of processes to assure that a piece of equipment will
perform as specified during the stresses of flight without jeopardizing the safe operation of the aircraft.
aeromedical staging facility. A medical facility located on or near an air base (or airstrip) to receive, admin-
istratively support, process, transport (on the ground), feed, and provide health care for patients entering, in the
midst of, or leaving an aeromedical evacuation system.
aerospace position. In SAR, the position of a distressed aircraft or spacecraft at the time of reentry, engine
failure, aircrew ejection, or bailout.
aerospace trajectory drift. In SAR, that drift caused by bailout trajectory or by glide of a disabled aircraft.
afloat ammunition allowance lists. Also known as “30,000 Series” allowance lists. Prescribes ammunition
load capacity by line item/naval ammunition logistics code for individual ships/ship classes.
afloat planning system (APS). A Tomahawk mission planning and distribution site installed onboard se-
lected aircraft carriers.
afternoon effect. The solar heating of the surface water that causes shallow negative temperature gradients.
This results in downward refraction of sound rays and reduced surface duct ranges.
aggressor vessel. In harbor defense, any vessel that manifests a hostile intent against persons, facilities, or the
marine environment located within the harbor defense commander’s area of operations. This definition may fit
any vessel regardless of the country of registry, ownership, charter, or crew makeup.
air cargo company. A Navy unit tasked with establishing and operating an overseas air cargo terminal in an
expeditionary environment.
air defense commander (ADC). In the composite warfare commander concept, the officer delegated some or
all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for defensive counterair and granted the tactical
control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
air plan. The daily flight plan for carrier operations, including takeoff and recovery times, and fuel and ord-
nance requirements.
air resources element coordinator (AREC). In the composite warfare commander concept, the officer del-
egated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for management and coordina-
tion of fixed wing air and carrier-based helicopter assets.
air search attack unit. A search attack unit composed entirely of aircraft. Also see “antisubmarine air search
attack unit” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
air threat environment. The condition(s) that relates to the enemy’s air defense capability against airborne
friendly aircraft. There are three general levels of air threat environment: 1. low - An air threat environment
that permits combat operations and support to proceed without prohibitive interference. Associated tactics and
techniques do not formally require extraordinary measures for preplanned or immediate support. Target/objec-
tive engagement is enhanced by effective communications, accurate target/objective identification, and
reattacks if applicable (limited only by aircraft time on station and ordnance on board). 2. medium - An air
threat environment in which the specific aircraft performance and weapon systems capability allow acceptable
exposure time to enemy air defenses. This air threat environment restricts the flexibility of tactics in the imme-
diate target/objective area. It is an environment in which the enemy may have limited radar and/or electro-opti-
cal acquisition capability at medium rnge, but the air defense system is not supported by fully integrated fire
control systems. Medium air threat environments normally allow medium-altitude missions/attack deliveries
with low probability of engagement by enemy air defenses. 3. high - An air threat environment created by an
opposing force that possesses air defense combat power, including integrated fire control systems and elec-
tronic warfare capabilities that would seriously diminish the ability of friendly forces to provide necessary air
support. This air threat environment might preclude missions such as immediate CAS, since the requirements
for effective radio communications and coordination may not be possible. The high air threat environment may
include but is not limited to command and control network; mobile and/or stationary surface-to-air missiles;
early warning radars; electronic warfare; integrated (AAA) tire control systems; interceptor aircraft; and war-
time reserve modes.
airborne alert interdiction. A type of interdiction mission characterized by the employment of air-to-ground
aircraft from an airborne alert status against emerging or time-critical targets as directed by the appropriate
command and control node or agency. Also see “interdiction” and “air interdiction” in DOD Dictionary (JP
1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
airborne mine countermeasures. Mine countermeasures operations conducted from an aircraft platform to
detect and reduce the effectiveness of or defeat the enemy’s mining effort. It includes watching, spotting, hunt-
ing, sweeping, and destroying.
airborne stores. Items intended for carriage internally or externally by aircraft, including racks, launchers,
adapters, and detachable pylons, which are not normally separated from the aircraft in flight, such as tanks,
pods, nonexpendable training weapons, and targets.
airborne weapons. Items intended for carriage internally or externally by aircraft, which are normally sepa-
rated from the aircraft in flight, such as missiles, rockets, bombs, mines, torpedoes, pyrotechnics, ammunition,
and guns.
aircraft control unit (ACU). A unit with facilities and personnel, including controllers, that conducts aircraft
control and exercises tactical control of aircraft or unit(s).
aircraft intermediate maintenance department. The department responsible for the check, test, repair, or
manufacture of aeronautical components and support equipment for the supported aircraft.
aircraft wreckage locator. A record of all aircraft wreckage within a SAR area of responsibility. It consists of
a visual plot of each wreckage on a map and is referenced by number to an index file that contains pertinent
data concerning the wreckage.
airspace reservation. During SAR missions, temporary air space or altitude reservations for the purpose of
preventing unessential non-SAR aircraft from entering air space being used by aircraft for SAR operations.
Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
air-surface action group (ASAG). A unit comprised of two or more aircraft of the same type assigned to
counter a particular surface threat (when only helicopters are used, it is known as a helicopter action group
(HAG).
alert notice. See “search and rescue incident classification” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/
doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
alert phase. See “search and rescue incident classification” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/
doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
alert state. The maximum time in minutes required to bring an aircraft or weapons system (or part of it) to im-
mediate availability.
alien migrant interdiction operations. Civil or military actions taken to prevent alien migrants from ille-
gally entering the U.S.
alternate aim point. A command that may be planned into a Tomahawk mission as a measure to lower the risk
of collateral damage if the accuracy of the missile’s navigational solution is below the level of confidence re-
quired for the mission.
altitude line. Heavy band of clutter produced by radar energy reflection from the Earth’s surface.
ambient limited speed. For a ship or submarine platform, the slowest recommended search speed. At this
speed or slower, acoustic detection ranges are limited by the ambient noise in the environment and not by the
platform’s self noise. (This occurs at the speed where self-noise = ambient noise - 6 dB.) Also see break point
speed.
ambient noise. The naturally occurring noise in the sea and the noise resulting from human activities but ex-
cluding self-noise and reverberation.
ammi pontoon. A pontoon designed to be used singly or as interconnected multiple units to form floating or el-
evated piers and causeways. The ammi pontoon can be elevated on tubular steel legs. The individual pontoon
also can be used as a self-propelled fuel or water barge, warping tug, or ferry.
amphibious bulk liquid transfer system (ABLTS). Ship system used to pump bulk petroleum, oils, and lu-
bricants, and potable water ashore via buoyant hose line.
amphibious ready group. A command within the amphibious force, consisting of the commander and his
staff, designed to exercise operational command of assigned units in executing all phases of a division-size am-
phibious operation.
anchor chain collar. A circular device that rides down the anchor chain. It has a retrieving line attached by
which the collar can be returned to the water’s surface. This device is used to permit periodic checking of the
anchor chain to ensure that an explosive device has not been attached to the anchor chain by an attack swim-
mer. After each inspection, the collar is lowered to the bottom.
anechoic coating. A hull coating that absorbs sound. This coating reduces the amount of internally generated
noise reaching the water and also reduces the active sonar reflectivity of the hull.
angle of climb (dive). The vertical angle between the horizontal and the direction of motion of a target mea-
sured in degrees at the target.
angle on the bow. The angle between the fore- and aft-axis of a target and the line of sight, measured from the
target bow to starboard or port. Also see aspect, target angle.
antenna sweep. A shallow water wire sweep configuration that actuates the mine by contact with the antenna.
antiair warfare (AAW). 1. See “air defense” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html. 2. Measures taken to defend a maritime force against attacks by airborne weapons
launched from aircraft, ships, submarines, and land-based sites.
anticountermine device. A device fitted in a mine to prevent its actuation by shock from a nearby explosion.
anti-invasion mine. A mine designed for use in the surf zone and very shallow water against landing craft, fast
patrol boats, surface effect vehicles, and other amphibious assault vehicles.
antimine countermeasures vehicle mine. A mine that is laid, or whose mechanism is designed or adjusted,
with the specific object of damaging mine countermeasure vehicles.
antisubmarine evasion. A change in the planned route or speed (but not destination) of a force, convoy, or in-
dependent unit ordered by the officer in tactical command to evade a submarine threat.
antisubmarine minefield. A field laid specifically against submarines. It may be unsafe for all vehicles or it
may be deep and safe for surface vessels to cross.
antisubmarine warfare commander (ASWC). In the composite warfare commander concept, the officer
delegated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for ASW and granted the
tactical control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
antisubmarine warfare-free area. A waterspace management area in which no friendly submarines are oper-
ating, and there are no restrictions on the use of antisubmarine weapons.
antiterrorism officer. The point of contact directly responsible to the commanding officer for all matters deal-
ing with antiterrorism and force protection. Formerly “force protection officer.”
antiterrorism plan. A plan that documents the specific measures taken to establish and maintain an
antiterrorism/force protection program, ensuring readiness against terrorist attacks.
approach route. In mine warfare, a sea route that joins a port to the coastal or transit route.
area fire. A volume of fire delivered on a prescribed area. The term is applicable regardless of the tactical pur-
pose of the fire, but area fire is generally neutralization fire.
area of operations (AO). In Navy usage, an operational area defined by the naval commander for own-force
operations. The area of operations should be large enough for commanders to accomplish their missions and
protect their forces. See also DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
area of uncertainty (AOU). The area centered on the most likely contact position at time of detection in which
the contact is believed to be at a specified level of probability. It is usually an ellipse and is sized to reflect the
uncertainty of that position and report.
area religious ministry coordination team. A team designed to identify religious ministry (RM) require-
ments in a geographic area and to develop strategies to enhance mission efficiency and effectiveness. The team
expands the command religious program to encompass commands without assigned religious ministry teams to
ensure that RM tasks and activities are planned, programmed, budgeted, and implemented to meet the identi-
fied RM requirements of the geographical area.
area search detachment. In explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) operations, an EOD detachment that uses a
side-scanning sonar to reacquire mine-like contacts already located by other means.
armed helicopter escort. A helicopter armed for suppressive fire and flown in support of transport helicop-
ters, utility helicopters, motorized or troop convoys, and other missions to which they may be assigned.
arming delay. The time interval between the instant ordnance is launched and the instant the fuze becomes
armed.
arming device. A safety mechanism that interrupts the primary explosive firing train until a unique combina-
tion of environments is satisfied.
array. A group of two or more hydrophones arranged to provide a variation of reception with direction when
beamformed. Also see phased array radar.
arrival and assembly area. An area designated by the maritime prepositioning force commander in coordina-
tion with the unified commander and host nation for arrival, offload, and assembly of forces and maritime
prepositioned equipment and supplies, and for preparations for subsequent operations. The area is administra-
tive in nature and does not denote command of a geographic area. Such an area may be inside an amphibious
objective area. Within the arrival and assembly area, coordination authority for the following is implied for the
maritime prepositioning force commander: a) prioritization and use of airfield(s), port, beach facilities, and
road networks, b) air traffic control, and c) logistics support activities.
arrival and assembly operations element. An agency in each Marine air-ground task force element and
the naval support element that coordinates the logistics functions of the offload of maritime prepositioned
equipment and supplies and the arrival and assembly of forces.
arrival and assembly operations group. A staff agency of the Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF),
composed of personnel from the MAGTF and a liaison from the naval support element, that controls the arrival
and assembly operations.
aspect. The angle between the fore- and aft-axis of a target and the line of sight, measured from the target head-
ing to starboard or port. May be expressed in general terms, e.g., bow, broad bow, beam, quarter, and stern.
Also see angle on the bow, target angle.
assault force. In Navy special operations, a group of assault teams and a command and control element whose
primary mission is to gain entry to the crisis point and secure the release of hostages and/or equipment by elim-
inating the threat through the selective use of force.
associated support. In Navy usage, operations in which a designated unit operates independently of a speci-
fied force or group but is tasked to provide contact information to, receive intelligence from and, if authorized,
to cooperate and coordinate operations with the supported force. Tactical control of the unit remains with the
assigning authority who coordinates tasking and movement of the unit in response to the requirements of the
supported force commander.
asymmetrical mine countermeasure gear. Any mine countermeasure gear whose center of actuation, in-
fluence, detection, or cutting is displaced from the centerline of the platform.
attenuation. In underwater acoustics, the reduction in sound intensity (dB/kyd) caused by the absorption and
scattering of sound in water.
attrition mine countermeasure operations. The continuous application of mine countermeasures to keep
the risk from mines to all vehicles as low as possible where traffic is to continue for a sustained period. These
operations are appropriate against minefields that are being replenished.
attrition objective. In mine countermeasures, the goal of keeping the threat of mines to ship traffic as low as
possible when traffic must continue to transit the mined waters for a comparatively long period of time, and the
mines cannot be cleared in a short time because of factors such as replenishment, mine mechanisms with de-
layed arming, or high ship count settings.
attrition warfare. The application of overwhelming combat power that reduces the effectiveness of an enemy’s
ability to fight through the loss of personnel and material.
authority. The person vested with the power to make decisions and issue orders; also, the individual power to
make decisions and issue relative orders imposing those decisions – such power may be limited in scope, time,
and location. Authority automatically confers the responsibility to carry out assigned tasks and report results to
the assigning authority.
auxiliary machinery. In acoustic prediction usage, all machinery not directly associated with the main propul-
sion drive train, especially shipboard machinery that does not vary in rotational speed as the ship changes
speed. Examples include: ship’s service turbo generator, main feed pumps, air-compressors, trim drain pumps,
etc.
average actuation area. The integral, over a plane perpendicular to the centerline of the target ship, of the
probability of actuation of a mine under specified conditions.
average actuation width. The integral, over an athwartship distance between the mine and the keel of the tar-
get ship, of the probability of actuation of a mine at a given depth and under specified conditions.
average power. When applied to pulse radars utilizing a single transmitted pulse-per-pulse repetition period,
the product of the peak power transmitted and the duty cycle of the pulse. The average power is usually defined
as that existing over a single-pulse repetition period of a radar.
average sea current. That current present in the open sea that is caused by factors other than local winds.
Found by using HO 700, Atlas of Surface Currents, pilot charts, and/or local knowledge.
awareness stage. That stage when the SAR system becomes aware of an incident.
azimuth. As related to GPS, the angle measured clockwise in the horizontal plane between the North Pole and
the observed terrestrial object. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
background noise. In acoustics, all unwanted sounds, other than reverberation, received by a hydrophone. It
includes ambient and self-made noise.
backload. The process of putting returning personnel and/or vehicles and their associated stores and equipment
into ships and/or aircraft; such personnel and equipment having been once embarked in ships and/or aircraft
and used to support operations ashore. Also see “embarkation” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic
.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html.
backscatter. In underwater acoustics, that part of the reflected sound energy that returns to the transducer;
equivalent to reverberation. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
baffle. An acoustic shielding structure or partition that increases the transmission loss between two points. The
baffle region refers to an acoustically blind area behind own-ship created by the physical relationship between
the array and the ship hull.
ballistic density. A representation of the atmospheric density actually encountered by a projectile in flight ex-
pressed as a percentage of density according to the standard atmosphere. Thus, if the actual density distribu-
tion produced the same effect upon a projectile as the standard density distribution, the ballistic density would
be 100 percent.
bareboat charter. Under this type of contractual agreement, the ship owner relinquishes control and manage-
ment of his ship to the charterer for a number of years — often for the ship’s entire service life. The charterer
crews and operates the ship and is responsible for all costs of operation, including fuel, port changes, and canal
tolls. The charterer agrees to return the ship to the owner in good condition (normal wear and tear expected)
when the charter party expires. The charterer pays “hire,” which is usually expressed in terms of a certain
amount of dollars per day or a certain dollar amount per dead weight ton per month.
barrier line. In ASW, the line formed by a series of static devices or mobile units arranged for the purpose of
detecting, denying passage to, or destroying enemy submarines.
base course. A reference course or direction desired to be made good when evasive steering is being carried
out.
baseloaded. A replenishing ship’s cargo intended for delivery to a base or replenishment group.
base recovery course. The ship’s magnetic heading for aircraft recovery.
base speed. The speed resulting along the base course when evasive steering is being carried out.
basic allowance. With regard to maritime prepositioning ship support of amphibious operations, the quantity
of ammunition required to support a given number of weapons for a specified period of time. When used in re-
lation to cargo offered for shipment (i.e., vehicles with basic allowance), it means that the vehicles are loaded
with the ammunition necessary to support the unit involved.
battle bill. A list of stations to be manned under battle conditions and the personnel requirements for manning
those stations.
battle casualty. Any casualty with an injury incurred as the direct result of hostile action, sustained in combat
or sustained while going to or returning from a combat mission, provided that the occurrence was directly re-
lated to hostile action. Included are persons killed or wounded mistakenly or accidentally by friendly fire di-
rected at a hostile force or what is thought to be a hostile force.
battle force logistics coordinator (BFLC). The logistic coordinator for a battle force who establishes a fo-
cal point for management and coordination of logistics to support operating forces. This organization is estab-
lished when logistic coordination of two or more subordinate battle groups is required.
battle messing. The process by which personnel are fed onboard ships during periods of prolonged manning
of battle stations in support of general quarters.
battle short. A switch for short-circuiting the safety interlocks in most electronic equipment to supply power.
battlespace. All aspects of air, surface, and subsurface, land, space, and the electromagnetic spectrum that en-
compass the area of influence and area of interest. See also DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
battlespace awareness. Awareness of the environment and the status of adversary and friendly forces, yield-
ing an interactive “picture” that provides timely, relevant, and accurate assessments of friendly and adversary
operations within the battlespace.
battlespace dominance. The degree of control over the dimensions of the battlespace that enhances friendly
freedom of action and denies the enemy freedom of action. It permits power projection and force sustainment
to accomplish the full range of potential missions.
battlespace shaping. The continual process of developing, evaluating, and revising the force operational pro-
file within the battlespace. Provides the foundation of the force commander’s operational message within the
battlespace.
beach gear. A direct pulling system used to free stranded vessels, consisting of an anchor connected to a pull-
ing wire and purchase tackle used to heave against the holding anchor.
beach party team. The Navy component of the debark control unit responsible for controlling lighterage in the
surf zone, conducting lighterage salvage, and transferring bulk liquids from maritime prepositioning ships.
beamformer. Equipment that forms bearing sectors around an array to permit association of a direction with an
underwater acoustic signal.
beam rider guidance. That form of missile guidance wherein a missile, through a self-contained mechanism,
automatically guides itself along an electronic beam.
bearing rate. The rate of change of target bearing from own ship caused by the relative motion of own ship and
target. It is normally expressed in degrees per minute, left or right.
bearing resolution. The minimum angular separation between two targets at the same range that will allow an
operator of a specific piece of electronic equipment to distinguish between the two targets.
bearing sector. A general bearing. If a target is known to be somewhere within plus or minus 15 degrees of a
specific bearing, it is said to be within a 30-degree bearing sector.
bioluminescence. The production of light without sensible heat by living organisms as a result of a chemical
reaction either within certain cells or organs or in some form of secretion.
bistatic. Refers to the case in active sonar where the active source and the receiving hydrophone are separated.
Also see monostatic and multistatic.
black bottoms. Refers to commercial cargo ships operated or leased by the Military Sealift Command to trans-
port surge replenishment requirements in response to wartime or contingencies.
blade rate. The frequency of the pulsating thrust imparted by the shaft to the ship caused by the propeller mov-
ing through the wake profile of the ship.
blind zone. The area in which a radar or electonic countermeasure’s equipment cannot receive echoes. Blind
zones are normally caused by interference from a ship’s superstructure.
blockade. A belligerent operation to prevent vessels and/or aircraft of all nations, enemy as well as neutral,
from entering or exiting specified ports, airfields, or coastal areas belonging to, occupied by, or under the con-
trol of an enemy nation. A belligerent’s purpose in establishing a blockade is to deny the enemy the use of en-
emy and neutral vessels or aircraft to transport personnel and goods to or from enemy territory.
BLUE DART message. A time-sensitive terrorist incident notification message initiated by the Navy Antiter-
rorist Alert Center to provide commands immediate indications and warning of the high potential for, and im-
minent threat of, a terrorist action.
boarding ship. In maritime interception operations, the unit tasked with providing the boarding team for
boarding a suspect vessel.
bottom bounce. Sound transmission in which sound rays strike the bottom in deep water at steep angles and
are reflected to the surface.
bottom contours. Lines of equal water depth used to depict bottom topography on bathymetric charts.
bottom interaction. Interaction of underwater sound with the ocean bottom, whether the sound is reflected
from the sediment, or refracted through it, or both. At low frequencies, refraction may produce a focusing,
somewhat similar to a convergence zone.
bottom limited. A situation that exists when the ocean bottom occurs at a depth less than the critical depth.
Convergence zone propagation is prevented from occurring. Deep sound channel propagation is restricted to a
deep source.
bottom loss. Acoustic energy lost on the sea floor as a result of attenuation; also, the ratio of the energy of a
bottom-returned wave to the energy of the incident wave.
bottom reverberation. A term referring to scattered sound energy that is reflected back to the acoustic source
after striking the ocean floor.
bottom search. An ASW search that is a particular application of the close search for use in shallow water and
when the submarine is suspected to be on the bottom.
bottom sweep. A device, either wire or chain, used either to sweep moored mines close to the bottom or to re-
move moored mines from a channel by dragging them to a designated area. The sweep configuration may con-
sist of one or two ships dragging the wire or chain across the seabed.
bottom type. A number which categorizes the ocean bottom with respect to acoustic properties. NAVOCEANO
categorizes the bottom into nine classes for frequencies 1000 Hz and above; they are displayed on the ASW
prediction area chart. Bassett and Wolff categorize the bottom into three classes for frequencies below 1000 Hz.
boundary. In underwater acoustics, a level at which a discontinuity exists, such as the ocean surface and ocean
bottom. A boundary can also exist between different masses of ocean water, such as an ocean front, and be-
tween different thermal characteristics, such as a mixed-layer depth. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
bounded sea. Any sea space surrounded by land with restricted entry and exit routes and limited operating
space.
break plane. Referencing the vertical and horizontal planes of motion available to all aircraft. To break plane is
to maneuver in vertical or horizontal planes other than those occupied by another aircraft.
break point speed (BPS). For a ship or submarine platform, the fastest recommended ASW search speed. At
this speed or faster, acoustic detection ranges are limited by the platform’s self-noise, and not by the ambient
noise in the environment. (This occurs at the speed where self-noise = ambient noise.) See also ambient limited
speed.
breakthrough. In mine countermeasures, a time-critical operation applied to the mine countermeasures tactic
of minimizing the mine threat by creating a narrow path through a minefield to gain passage for ships.
brightness. The apparent luminosity of a subject due to the reflection of the illumination falling upon it. Mea-
sured in foot-lamberts.
brisance. The shattering power of an explosive; it is a measure of the kind of work an explosive will do and is
usually dependent upon, and indicated by, the velocity of the explosive reaction.
broadband. Acoustic energy that is spread over a wide nondiscrete frequency band. Broadband signals cover a
frequency range one-tenth octave or larger.
broadband noise. Noise from any source other than the measuring equipment and platform and covering a
wide range of frequencies.
broadcast control. A form of aircraft mission control in which tactical and target information is passed to en-
able the aircraft to accomplish the assigned tasks. The controlling unit, when possible, provides adequate
warnings of hazards, but the aircraft commander(s) is (are) responsible for aircraft navigation and collision
avoidance. Two-way communications are not a prerequisite for this type of control. Also see close control and
loose control.
buffer zone. In shipboard firefighting, the area between the inner and outer smoke boundaries established for a
class-B fire in a machinery space. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
burnthrough. The point where the echo is first discernible through the jamming. Also see “burn-through
range” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
captain of the port (COTP). The officer responsible for enforcing, within his/her jurisdictions, port safety, se-
curity, and marine environmental protection regulations including, without limitation, regulations for the pro-
tection and security of vessels, harbors, waterfront facilities, anchorages, security zones, safety zones, regulated
navigation areas, deep-water ports, water pollution, and ports and waterways safety.
cargo handling detachment (CHD). A Navy support element (NSE) component consisting of U.S. Navy
cargo handling force personnel assigned to the offload preparation party who are augmented by additional su-
pervisory and technical NSE personnel to accomplish the offload.
cargo handling force (CHF). A Navy support element of the offload control unit consisting of U.S. Navy
cargo handling force personnel assigned to the off-load preparation party and debarkation team.
cargo load allowance list. An approved listing of ordnance carried as cargo for underway replenishment for
issue to other fleet units in support of their assigned mission.
carrier-controlled approach (CCA). A precision system using radar to pick up and detect carrier-based air-
craft (operating under instrument flight conditions) to a position and course relative to a carrier from which re-
covery can be made.
carrier onboard delivery (COD). The delivery of passengers and/or light freight on-board an aircraft carrier
at sea by carrier aircraft. Such aircraft are carrier type aircraft especially adapted for this purpose.
case depth. The vertical distance from the water’s surface to the planted mine. For moored mines, this is the
water depth at which the explosive charge is held by the mooring line. For ground mines, the case depth is the
same as the sea bottom depth.
casualty distribution. In naval mine warfare, the set of probabilities for every possible number of casualties
out of N transit attempts, i.e., 40-percent probability of three casualties in ten transits.
casualty rate. In naval mine warfare, the expected number of casualties per time period in a sustained attrition
mining campaign.
casualty report. An operational report submitted for casualties (including degradations) that affect a unit’s as-
signed primary mission area when repairs of the equipment and/or related computer software are not possible
within 48 hours. The report identifies casualty effects to the mission area, parts, technical assistance, and esti-
mated repair time. Casualty reports are classified as initial, update, cancellation, or correction reports, which
provide the operational and type commanders within the unit’s chain of command its readiness status.
catenary chain drag. A technique used to sweep moored mines employing two ships or small craft towing a
chain between them.
caustic. In a two-dimensional ray diagram, a caustic is a curve formed by the intersections of adjacent rays in
the diagram. A focus occurs when a caustic degenerates to a point or a small region of space.
cavitation. The formation of local cavities (bubbles) in a liquid as a result of the reduction of total pressure.
This pressure reduction may result from a negative pressure produced by rarefaction or from the reduction of
pressure by hydrodynamic flow, such as that produced by high-speed movement of an underwater propeller.
center frequency. In underwater acoustics, the frequency in the middle of a bandwidth that is determined by
taking the average of the sum of the upper limit and the lower limit.
chain mooring. An antisweep device consisting of a length of chain inserted in the mooring of a mine for the
purpose of resisting or disrupting sweep wires and cutters.
channel conditioning. An operation that removes mine-like objects from channels, harbor approaches, and
Q-routes to reduce the number of mine-like and nonmine-like bottom objects detectable by mine-hunting
systems.
channelization. A tactic employed through the use of mines, obstacles, fires, or deception to influence the ma-
neuver of a force across a predetermined path.
chart. A graphic representation of a section of the earth’s surface specifically designed for navigational
purposes.
charter party. In military sealift usage, a contractual agreement between a ship owner and a ship charterer.
check MCM operation. A mine countermeasures (MCM) operation to confirm that, as far as possible, no
mines are left after a previous MCM effort. Also see “check sweeping” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
chemical horn. An actuation mechanism for a contact mine. It consists of an external housing (which is easily
bent or crushed and contains the sealed electrolyte tube) and internal battery plates connected to a detonator.
When the horn is bent, the tube breaks and allows the electrolyte to activate the battery that passes a current to
fire the detonator. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
choke point. An oceanographic area where passage is restricted. An area considered easily defended or
watched over.
circle search. An acoustic search pattern in which the torpedo searches in repeating circles until target detec-
tion or torpedo exhaustion.
civic action team. In Navy civil engineering usage, a team normally comprised of one Civil Engineer Corps
officer, an independent duty hospital corpsman, and eleven Seabees.
civil affairs. The activities of a commander that establish, maintain, influence, or exploit relations between mili-
tary forces and civil authorities, both governmental and nongovernmental, and the civilian populace in a
friendly, neutral, or hostile area of operations in order to facilitate military operations and consolidate opera-
tional objectives. Civil affairs may include performance by military forces of activities and functions normally
the responsibility of local government. These activities may occur prior to, during, or subsequent to other mili-
tary actions. They may also occur, if directed, in the absence of other military operations. Also see DOD Dic-
tionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
civil engineering. Those activities that identify, plan, design, construct, alter, demolish, or lease facilities and
that operate, maintain, perform war damage repair, and provide for their disposal in support of military opera-
tions. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
civil engineer support equipment. Mobile construction, automotive, railway, firefighting, and weight han-
dling equipment and associated items required to support the operating forces of the Navy, Marine Corps, and
naval shore establishment in regard to shore facilities, transportation, and related engineering material and
equipment.
civil support. Department of Defense support to United States civil authorities for domestic emergencies and
for designated law enforcement and other agencies.
classification. The evaluation of a contact. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
classification signature. The susceptibility to being classified as a submarine or warship by other platforms.
classification, identification, and engagement area (CIEA). In maritime operations, the area within the
surveillance area and surrounding the vital area(s) in which all objects detected must be classified, identified,
and monitored; and the ability maintained to escort, cover, or engage. Also see area of operations, surveillance
area, vital area.
clearance operations. In naval mine warfare, the process of sweeping or hunting in a mined area with the aim
of clearing all or a high percentage of mines from an area, channel, or route. A specific percentage of clearance
is generally specified.
clear-deck recovery. In LAMPS helicopter operations, conventional landing on a RAST-equipped ship that
does not use the hauldown cable or the RSD.
cleared vessel. In maritime interception operations (MIO), a suspect vessel that has been queried or boarded
and has declared that its next port of call is in an area designated by the MIO sanctioning body and has been di-
rected to proceed to the next port of call; or a suspect vessel outbound from an area designated by the MIO
sanctioning body that has been queried and allowed to proceed to its next port of call.
clearing objective. In mine warfare operations, to remove most mines from the assigned operational area.
Since it is generally impossible to guarantee that all mines are cleared, a goal is assigned, such as removing or
neutralizing 99.5 percent of the mines.
climatological conditions. An average of environmental conditions over a specified period of time such as a
calendar month, season, year, century, etc., for a specific geographic location (i.e., a climatological sound ve-
locity profile would represent the average condition for a given area; anomalous conditions would not be
reflected).
close ASW action. An action in which one or more ASW units attempts to engage an enemy submarine within
8,000 yards.
close control. A form of aircraft mission control in which the aircraft is continuously controlled for altitude,
speed, and heading to a position from which the mission can be accomplished. See also broadcast control and
loose control.
closed-loop sweep. A magnetic sweep in which the sweep current is carried entirely by insulated electrical
conductors and does not depend upon seawater to complete the electrical circuit. The conductors are diverted
to one or both sides using components of the Oropesa mechanical sweep.
close search. A search for a particular submarine employed when a lost contact search or procedure has failed
to relocate the submarine or when time late is too great to permit use of a lost contact search.
clutter. In naval mine warfare, all echoes detected by a minehunting sonar system during the detection phase
that are repeatedly above the noise or average reverbation background. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
clutter density. The number of nonmine bottom objects per square nautical mile in an operational segment.
coastal area. An area that may include land, harbors, coastline, islands, territorial waters, and coastal waters,
the seaward limits of which depend on geographical and operational factors and in which special regulations
may apply.
coastal route. In naval mine warfare, a sea route, normally following the coastline, that joins adjacent approach
routes.
coastal sea control commander. An officer designated by the naval coastal warfare commander to conduct
surveillance and interdiction operations in the coastal area.
coastal state. A nation bordering ocean waters that has the authority under international law to exercise various
degrees of sovereignty over the immediately adjacent ocean waters.
coastal waters. A sea area within a coastal area extending to seaward from the shore line.
CODAG. A combination power plant consisting of a diesel engine and a gas turbine configured so that both can
be operated simultaneously. In a typical application, the diesel engine is used for normal cruise conditions
while the gas turbine allows for high-speed operations.
CODOG. A combination power plant consisting of a diesel engine and a gas turbine configured for exclusive op-
erations. The diesel engine is employed for normal operations. For high-speed operations, the diesel engine is
secured, and the gas turbine is employed.
COGAG. A combination power plant consisting of gas turbines in which one turbine is employed for cruise
economy, and a second larger turbine provides boost power.
COGOG. A combination of gas turbines in which one is used for cruise economy, and a second larger one pro-
vides boost power. It differs from a COGAG configuration in that the smaller turbine must be physically disen-
gaged when the boost turbine is employed.
cold core eddy. Large cold water mass that has broken off from its parent water mass into a different water
mass, yet retains its specific properties for long periods (up to two years) before being assimilated.
collinearity. In photogrammetry, the fundamental geometric principle that the point visible in the image, the ex-
posure station of the camera, and the point on the ground lie along a single light ray.
combat loading. In amphibious operations, loading methods that give primary consideration to the facility
with which troops, equipment, and supplies can be unloaded ready for combat rather than to economical use of
ship space. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
combat logistics force. Includes active Navy ships and those operated by the Military Sealift Command
within the naval fleet auxiliary force that carry a broad range of stores, including fuel, food, repair parts, am-
munition, and other essential materiel to keep naval forces operating at sea for extended periods.
combat organization loading. A method of loading conducted without regard to tactical considerations upon
debarkation. It permits debarkation of complete units and equipment that will be available for tactical employ-
ment and assembly ashore. This method is more economical in ship space than is combat unit loading.
combat requirement. The quantity of munitions required to equip a specified force structure to its designed
military capability and to meet CINC objectives, including munitions needed for overlap.
combat spread loading. A method of combat loading by which some of the troops, equipment, and initial
supplies of a unit are loaded in one ship, and the remainder are loaded in one or more other ships. This method
is commonly used for troop units with heavy equipment. Also see combat organization loading and combat unit
loading.
combat stress. The mental, emotional, or physical tension, strain, or distress resulting from exposure to com-
bat-related conditions. Combat stress is the net result of many stressors (e.g., fear of death, fear of failure, and
other intensive painful emotions (like grief), uncertainty, boredom, worry about what is happening back home,
and the many physical and mental demands of combat duties) at any given time.
combat unit loading. A method of loading by which all or a part of a combat unit, such as an assault battalion
landing team, is completely loaded in a single ship with essential combat equipment and supplies in such a
manner as to be immediately available to support the tactical plan upon debarkation and to provide a maximum
of flexibility to meet possible changes in the tactical plan. Also see combat organization loading and combat
spread loading.
combat usable asset inventory. The sum of the ready-for-issue and the emergency-combat-use only
inventories.
combined effect bomblet. A fragmentation- and incendiary-shaped charge ejected by TLAM-D over one or
more targets as ordered by the mission planner.
command activated sonobuoy system. An active ranging sonobuoy that may be turned on or off, scuttled,
and hydrophone depth increased on command.
common tactical picture (CTP). The common tactical picture is derived from the common tactical dataset
and other sources and refers to the current depiction of the battlespace for a single operation within a CINC’s
area of responsibility including current, anticipated or projected, and planned disposition of hostile, neutral, and
friendly forces as they pertain to U.S. and multinational operations ranging from peacetime through crisis and
war. The CTP includes force location, real time and nonreal-time sensor information, and amplifying informa-
tion such as METOC, SORTS, and JOPES.
common-use sorties. Those sorties tasked directly by the joint force air component commander in order to
achieve the air objectives of the joint force commander campaign. They consist of all sorties not used as direct
support.
complement. For a ship, the numbers, ranks, and ratings of officers and enlisted personnel determined to be
necessary to acccomplish the ship’s wartime objectives.
compliant boarding. In maritime interception operations, a boarding in which all of the following are met: a)
suspect vessel complies with the directions of the on-scene commander, b) no apparent passive or active resis-
tance measures are employed, and c) there is no intelligence to indicate a threat.
composite warfare commander (CWC). An officer to whom the officer in tactical command of a naval task
organization may delegate authority to conduct some or all of the offensive and defensive missions of the force.
confined waters. Parts of coastal waters where the freedom of movement of vessels is affected by the proxim-
ity of land or shallow waters.
confirmed intelligence. Information or intelligence reported by three independent sources. The test for inde-
pendence is certainty that the information report of one source was not derived from either of the two other
sources, usually resulting in reliance on original reporting.
conformal array. A group of hydrophones that follow the contour of the ship. Employed for passive
application.
conjugate depth. For a source below the sonic layer depth, that depth below the deep sound channel axis
where the sound speed equals the speed at the source depth.
consensual boarding. In maritime interception operations, boarding is conducted at the invitation of the mas-
ter (or person-in-charge) of a vessel that is not otherwise subject to the jurisdiction of the boarding officer. The
voluntary consent of the master permits the boarding, but it does not allow the assertion of law enforcement au-
thority such as search and seizure.
consensual visit. In maritime interception operations, a visit conducted at the invitation of the master (or per-
son-in-charge) of a vessel that is not otherwise subject to the jurisdiction of the boarding officer. The voluntary
consent of the master permits the boarding, but it does not allow the assertion of law enforcement authority
such as search and seizure. Also called consensual boarding.
consequence management. Interagency services and emergency response force actions essential to mitigate
and recover from damage, loss, hardship, or suffering resulting from disasters or catastrophes, either man-made
or natural. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
consigned merchant vessels. Consigned merchant vessels are those vessels that governments or owners
have formally placed under naval control.
construction battalion unit (CBU). A naval construction force unit that may be established in the fleet or in
the shore establishment. Fleet CBUs fulfill long-term facilities improvement requirements at specific locations.
Shore CBUs are used for construction, alteration, repair, and nonrecurring maintenance.
consumables. Administrative and housekeeping items, common tools, paints, cognizance symbol II forms, or
any other items not specifically defined as equipage or repair parts. Materiel such as general-purpose hardware,
metals, lumber, and lubricating oil also are considered to be consumables in procurement transactions but will
be treated as repair parts in shipboard issue transactions when the materiel is to be used for accomplishing
maintenance actions.
contact. In Navy operations, any discrete airborne, surface, or subsurface object detected by radar, sonar, and/or
visual means. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
contact of interest (COI). In maritime interception operations (MIO), a suspect vessel carrying nonmilitary
supplies believed to be enroute to, or outbound from, a place specified by the MIO sanctioning body; or a sus-
pect vessel flying the flag or under charter of a state specified by the MIO sanctioning body.
continental margin. A zone separating the emergent continents from the deep sea bottom; generally consists
of the continental shelf, slope, and rise.
continental rise. A gentle slope with a generally smooth surface found between the continental slope and the
abyssal plain.
continental shelf. A zone adjacent to a continent and extending from the low waterline to a depth at which
there is a marked increase of bottom slope to greater depth (usually about the 100-fathom line).
continental slope. A zone from the outer edge of a continental shelf to the continental rise.
contingency support shipping. Shipping directly related to ongoing activities during a regional contingency
operation. This may include crisis response shipping, government-controlled relief shipping, naval operating
forces, and naval sealift shipping.
continuous operations. In the context of combat stress, military operations with many pulses of action every
day and night, continuing for several days to weeks, which require careful planning and resource allocation to
give everyone a minimum of four hours sleep in 24.
contrast. 1. The difference between highlights and shadows in a negative or print. 2. Brightness ratio between
the target and its background in a scene.
control. The near-real-time direction of weapons systems and supporting platforms for the accomplishment of
assigned missions. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
convection currents. Whenever the surface water undergoes intensive cooling, evaporation, or freezing, the
density of the surface water increases beyond that of the underlying water. As this denser water sinks to a level
of the same density, currents are produced by warmer water flowing in to replace the sinking surface water.
conventional ammunition. A generic term that includes all types of nonnuclear/biological/chemical ord-
nance, such as bullets, rockets, bombs, mines, and guided missiles.
convergence zone. That region in the deep ocean where sound rays, refracted from the depths, return to the
surface. They are focused at or near the surface in successive intervals. A convergence zone is a sound-trans-
mission channel in the deep ocean [2,500 to 15,000 feet (850 to 4,500 meters)] produced by the combination of
pressure and temperature changes.
conversion. 1. A one-to-one mapping between two coordinate systems that does not involve a change of da-
tum. It is a rigorous mathematical function based on constants. 2. A permanent change of the functional use of
a facility or space resulting in a category change to the real property record.
coordinated ASW operations. Those operations in which any combination of ships, fixed-wing aircraft, he-
licopters, and ASW submarines combine to search for, locate, and/or attack enemy submarines.
coordinated strike. A combined strike by TLAM and TACAIR in which success and survivability for each
component are not dependent upon the success or time-on-target of the other component.
coordinators. Coordinators are asset and resource managers. They carry out the policies of the officer in tacti-
cal command or composite warfare commander, if assigned, and respond to the specific tasking of either prin-
cipal or functional warfare commanders. Coordinators differ from warfare commanders in that coordinators
execute policy but do not initiate autonomous actions nor do they normally exercise tactical control over as-
signed assets.
core capability. The set of functions that defines a significant, stand-alone, operationally effective and suitable
military capability such that, should no further development occur, the user will have received a significant
capability.
core competencies. Skills and knowledge considered fundamental to accomplishing stated capabilities.
correlation. The determination that a system track or local sensor track data report represents the same object or
point as another track and/or the process of combining two such tracks/data under one track number.
COSAG. A combination power plant consisting of steam and gas turbines. For normal operations, the steam tur-
bine is employed while a gas turbine provides boost power.
counterdetection. 1. A submarine’s ability to acoustically detect a surface ship’s radiated noise and echo rang-
ing. 2. Detection of a tracking ship by a contact that is being tracked.
countered field. A minefield in which some level of mine countermeasures is undertaken by the enemy.
counterfire attack. An attack during which own-ship does not hold contact on the launch platform, only on an
incoming torpedo.
counterfire avoidance. Actions taken by the ship, incident to the conduct of an attack, to move purposefully
out of the expected path of counterfired weapon(s).
countermarker. A unit maintaining contact on a marker from a position that enables it to counter the threat pre-
sented by the marker.
countermine. In naval mine warfare, any means employed to prevent the enemy from laying mines to include
destruction of mine stockpiles and platforms or the placement of mines in friendly waters to thwart the enemy’s
capability to deliver mines. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
countertargeting. A tactic designed to delay or prevent enemy platforms from targeting friendly units.
coupling system. That system by which the drive system and the propulsion system are linked and by which
the drive system imparts energy to the propulsion system.
course line. A sharp, clear line drawn on a map to denote the desired ground track.
course made good. The actual track made good in a given period of time, taking into account all effective en-
vironmental factors. Course made good over the ground is the direction in which a ship has proceeded, mea-
sured between two geographic positions. Course made good through the water is the direction in which the ship
is proceeding resulting from the effect of weather but not from the effect of current or tidal stream on the sig-
naled or base course.
cover. Actions to conceal actual friendly intentions, capabilities, operations, and other activities by providing a
plausible yet erroneous explanation of the observable.
coverage factor. In SAR, a measure of the search effectiveness or its quality. It equals sweep width divided by
track spacing.
crisis response shipping. All shipping employed in support of allied military operations. It will include
ships taken from trade, chartered shipping and, when appropriate, national maritime prepositioning ships.
critical angle. The grazing angle of a sound wave with the sea bottom at which total reflection occurs.
critical contact of interest. In maritime interception operations (MIO), a suspect vessel carrying designated
contraband, such as military supplies or illegal drugs, believed to be enroute to or outbound from a place speci-
fied by the MIO sanctioning body; or a suspect vessel flying the flag or under charter of a state specified by the
MIO sanctioning body.
critical deficiency. A deficiency that affects the operational ability of a unit to such an extent that performance
of the exercise is below minimum standards. This deficiency might be one of material, personnel, or training,
but remedial action is within the capability of assigned personnel.
critical depth. The depth below the deep sound channel (DSC) axis at which the sound speed is the same as it
is at the sonic layer depth. The critical depth is the bottom of the DSC.
critical vulnerability. That element of a military force vulnerable to attack and whose degradation or destruc-
tion will lead to defeating the enemy’s center of gravity and, ultimately, the will to resist.
crossover patrol. A patrol that begins on a barrier line and makes cross-channel tracks that slant away from
the barrier line in the direction of target movement. Normally used when scouts have an appreciable speed ad-
vantage over the enemy.
cryptologic resources coordinator. The officer delegated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s
detailed responsibilities for management of cryptologic assets, cryptologic coverage and tasking plans, person-
nel and augmentation requirements, cryptologic direct support operations, signal security operations, special in-
telligence communications, direct service interfaces, cryptologic sanitation, and correlation procedures.
cueing. The capability to use contact information generated by analysis of sensed data from any sensor to en-
able another sensor system to gain contact.
cultural competency. The set of behaviors, attitudes, and policies that come together in an institution or
agency, or among a group of individuals, that allows them to work effectively in cross-cultural situations. Cul-
tural competency reinforces the need for understanding the core of another’s beliefs and the ability to see the
world through another’s world view.
cumulative probability of detection. In SAR, a cumulated total probability of detection for repeated
searches of the same area found by averaging the individual coverage factors for the completed searches to ob-
tain a mean coverage factor. Abbreviated Pc.
cutoff frequency. That frequency below which an acoustic signal will tend not to be trapped in a layer or duct
and is a function of the depth of the layer.
cylindrical array. A group of hydrophones employed for both active and passive detection.
D/E ranging. A method of estimating target range by measuring the arrival angle of acoustic energy reflected
off the ocean bottom.
daily operations cycle. The schedule of significant recurring events of the JTF HQ staff. The JTF chief of
staff normally establishes this to deconflict the JTF staff schedule. This schedule allows JTF staff members to
anticipate when information is required and backward plan to ensure inputs are available when needed. Also
called “battle rhythm.”
damage distance. In mine warfare, the athwartship range within which a mine must detonate in order to cause
a specified level of damage to the target.
damage level. In mine warfare, the measure of desired danger. The four standard categories are kill, imminent
loss likely, mission abort, and onboard repairs possible.
damage width (Wd). In mine warfare, the integral of the probability, P(y), of actuation of a mine under speci-
fied conditions, integrated only over those values of athwartship distance (y) for which the explosion of the
mine is likely to do at least a specified amount of damage. This is the area under an actuation probability curve
within the damage distances on each side of the ship.
danger area. That part of a mine’s firing area that is inside the damage area of a mine countermeasures ship
with respect to the same given mine.
dangerous front. In mine warfare, the athwartship distance in which there is a likelihood that a mine counter-
measures (MCM) platform could be damaged by a mine that the MCM platform has actuated.
data link reference point (DLRP). A fixed geographic reference point specified by appropriate authority
from which a participating unit/reporting unit can calculate the relative position of own-unit and local tracks.
The DLRP is the X-Y grid origin of the tactical digital information link (TADIL) interface.
datum. 1. (ASW) The last known position of a submarine or suspected submarine after contact has been lost.
An ASW datum is fixed and not corrected for set and drift. 2. (SAR) The probable location of the search object
corrected for drift at any particular moment during the mission.
datum area. An area in which the search object is initially assumed to be located with equal probability
throughout the area.
datum line. The line connecting two or more datum points computed for the same specified time, along which
the search object is assumed to be located with equal probability.
dead reckoning (DR). Determination of position by advancing a previous position for course and distances.
decision support system (DSS). An automated data process and communications system designed to fur-
nish top management and/or command and control personnel with “what if” information needed to make tacti-
cal and strategic planning decisions. The DSS user states an “exploratory” or “model execution” information
request in terms of DSS-designated problem statement language. The DSS program interprets the information
request and uses data held in the knowledge base in order to generate a response to the DSS user.
deconfliction. In regard to Tomahawk missile operations, measures and procedures established to prevent or
resolve interference between friendly forces. 1. airspace deconfliction: Measures and procedures established to
prevent or resolve aerial interference between different activities in a common operating area. Airspace
deconfliction for TLAM often involves restrictions upon TACAIR altitudes, flight paths, and times at which
they may be used in the vicinity of TLAM. Prior measures are the responsibility of the Tomahawk strike coor-
dinator (TSC); the launch area coordinator is responsible for deconfliction in the launch area during the launch
window. 2. launch area deconfliction: Measures and procedures established to prevent or resolve interference
between Tomahawk firing units and other activity in a common area in which TLAM is launched. Launch area
deconfliction includes aerial, surface, and submarine operations in the vicinity of the firing units. 3. missile
deconfliction: Measures and procedures established to prevent interference and fratricide among Tomahawk
missiles between their launch positions and their intended aim points. Missile deconfliction includes determin-
istic offsets generated by the missile operational flight software, firing unit measures during engagement plan-
ning and launch, and strike planning measures taken by the TSC.
decontaminant. Any substance used to break down, neutralize, or remove a chemical, biological, or radioac-
tive material posing a threat to equipment or personnel.
deep layer. In underwater acoustics, the layer of water between the lower edge of the main thermocline and the
ocean bottom. It is characterized by a nearly constant temperature and a positive sound-speed gradient caused
by pressure.
deep moored mines. Moored mines with strong, small gauge cables that permit employment at great depth.
deep scattering layer (DSL). In underwater acoustics, a layer or layers in the ocean believed to consist of
plankton and fish from which sound rays are scattered or reflected back to the sound source.
deep sound channel (DSC). In underwater acoustics, the main sound channel of the ocean, caused by the
negative sound-speed gradient of the thermocline and the positive gradient of the deep layer. The axis of the
channel is typically located between 2,000 and 4,000 feet.
defensive mine countermeasures. Countermeasures intended to reduce the effect of enemy minelaying.
deflagration. The physical and chemical change of an explosive that, following initiation, proceeds at a veloc-
ity less than that of sound through the deflagration material.
deflection. The angle between the line of sight and the vertical plane through the line of fire, measured in the
slant plane through the line of sight and the elevation axis.
degaussing range. An array of underwater sensing devices, either permanently installed on the bottom of a
harbor channel or on a mobile unit capable of being established in forward areas by ship or boat, used to mea-
sure the magnetic field of ships or boats to determine the effectiveness of their degaussing system.
delay arm. A feature on a mine causing it to remain unarmed for a selected period of time after placement.
delay rising mechanism. A feature or device on a moored mine causing the case to remain attached to the an-
chor for a selected period of time or prescribed interval after placement.
delay time. In mine warfare, the time between the application of the minimum pulse field and the registration of
the look under consideration.
delayed fallout. Radioactive fallout that returns to earth later than 24 hours after a nuclear detonation; it usu-
ally ascends into the stratosphere and is distributed worldwide.
deliberate attack. In ASW, an attack delivered with maximum accuracy when the tactical situation allows time
to obtain accurate attack data. Also see urgent attack and DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
delousing. Searching in the vicinity of the task force main body to detect any potential hostile submarines.
demolition. The destruction of structures, facilities, or materiel by use of fire, water, explosives, mechanical, or
other means.
density. The density of seawater is the mass per unit volume. It increases with increasing salinity and pressure
and decreases with increasing temperature.
deperming. The use of high currents in coils temporarily arranged around a ship to reduce its magnetic
signature.
deployed period. A ship is considered deployed when it is operating out of home port for more than eight
weeks or when specified as deployed by the fleet commander.
deployment cycle. The deployment cycle is that period of time from the commencement of one deployment to
commencement of the next deployment.
depression/elevation (D/E). The feature of a sonar set that enables its beam to be trained in the vertical
direction.
depressor. A hydrodynamic planning device used to obtain and maintain proper depth of sweep wire in a me-
chanical sweep.
depth excess (DE). In underwater acoustics, 1. The difference between the bottom depth and the depth at
which the sound velocity is equal to either the surface velocity when there is no layer depth, or the maximum
velocity in the surface layer. 2. The difference between the depth at which the maximum near-surface sound ve-
locity recurs and the bottom depth. It is applied to convergence zone propagation.
depth required. In underwater acoustics, the minimum depth required for a reliable convergence zone to exist.
It is 200 to 300 fathoms below the critical depth.
depth separation. The vertical distance that must be maintained above and below the submarine between: a)
the highest fixed part of the submarine structure and the lowest point of a ship or towed device, b) the subma-
rine’s keel and the bottom, c) the vertical distances (buffer) between two defined depth zones, or d) the vertical
distance between the highest fixed part of a submarine’s structure and the lowest fixed part of a submarine op-
erating above.
destroy. A tactical task to physically render an enemy force combat-ineffective unless it is reconstituted. To ren-
der a target so damaged that it cannot function as intended nor be restored to a usable condition without being
entirely rebuilt. Also see “destroyed” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
destructor. 1. An explosive or other device for intentionally destroying classified equipment, a missile or air-
craft, or a component thereof, either for safety considerations or to prevent compromise. 2. Bomb converted to
a bottom mine by addition of a kit (mine warfare).
detained vessel. In maritime interception operations, a suspect vessel that has been queried or boarded and is
believed to be carrying contraband. The suspect vessel remains in this status until changed by higher authority.
detection circle. A circle described around a screened force and within which a submarine may be expected to
make contact.
detection probability. In naval mine warfare, the ratio of the number of mines detected on a single run to the
number of detectable mines within the characteristic detection width. Also see “characteristic detection proba-
bility” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
detection range. The range at which detection occurs. Detection range can be estimated or calculated or may
be the actual detection range.
detection threshold. In underwater acoustics, the point in time when a signature component can be distin-
guished from the background noise.
detection width. In naval mine warfare, the width of path over which mines can be detected on a single run at
a given probability of detection (Pd). Also see “characteristic detection width” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
detector. Any mechanism by which the approach or presence of a chemical or biological agent is made known.
detention. In maritime counterdrug and alien migrant interdiction, the delaying or holding up of a vessel, air-
craft, and/or person(s) for a period of time for the purpose of inspection, investigation, search, or until discrep-
ancies are corrected; this exercise of control is frequently used as a preliminary step for law enforcement
actions.
diagnostic. Those actions taken to identify and evaluate unexploded explosive ordnance.
diffraction loss. The loss of sound energy that occurs when sound rays traveling in a sound channel experience
leakage out of the channel and thus out of the main wave front.
digital scene matching area correlation (DSMAC). A navigational update system in the conventional
TLAM that compares binarized ground reference information loaded into the missile prior to launch with opti-
cally observed ground images to provide accurate, precise fixes.
direct fire. A form of NGS fire used against targets that are visible from the ship and that may be tracked using
the ship’s fire control system. Also see indirect fire. See direct fire in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
direct path (DP). In underwater acoustics, a propagation path composed only of those sound rays that travel
from source to receiver without any intervening reflections (that is, surface or bottom) and do not enter a duct-
ed mode.
direct support. In naval operations, the support provided by a unit or formation not attached or under the tacti-
cal command of the supported unit or formation but required to give priority to the support operations required
by that unit or formation. A direct support unit operates under the tactical control of a supported force com-
mander. Operational control and tactical command remain with the assigning authority. Also see associated
support and integrated operations.
direct support sorties. Component direct support sorties are those that are planned and executed by a compo-
nent commander in direct support of his/her own mission in accordance with joint force commander guidance,
or those sorties needed by the component commander for the immediate defense of his forces.
directivity index (DI). A measure of the amount by which an array, through its beam pattern, discriminates
against noise in favor of a signal.
disposition. An ordered arrangement of the stations of two or more formations proceeding together for any
purpose, such as cruising, air defense, or replenishment. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
disposition axis. A reference line for stationing two or more formations in relation to each other.
distance. The spatial separation of two points, measured by the length of a line joining them. Also see DOD
Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
distance line. A lightweight line that has sound-powered telephone lines for two circuits interwoven and that is
marked to indicate the distance between ships during underway replenishment. The zero end is secured to the
delivering ship’s rail, and the outboard end is tended by the receiving ship.
distress phase. See “search and rescue incident classification” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
diverted vessel. In maritime interception operations, a suspect vessel that has been queried or boarded, found
to be in violation, and diverted to a neutral port requested by the detainee or diverted to a port selected by the
cognizant commander.
divided fire. Directing the fire of one ship’s batteries against two targets.
Doppler. A shift in the frequency by the relative motion between a sensor and a source. If a sound source is
moving toward a sensor, the sensor will receive more cycles during a given time interval than the source is pro-
ducing. If a sound source is moving away, the converse will occur.
dose rate. A measure of the amount of ionizing radiation an individual is exposed to, per unit of time, com-
monly expressed in units of gray (or rads) per hour.
downrange travel. The horizontal distance the weapon travels from release to impact.
downslope enhancement. Acoustic energy from a source in shallow water changes from a bottom bounce
path to a convergence zone or sound channel path as it travels to deeper water and is concentrated down the
slope to a receiver in deep water. Also called the megaphone effect. See upslope enhancement.
drift. The vectorial movement (direction and distance) of the search object caused by momentum, drag, wind,
water, or other external forces. See DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
drifting mine. A buoyant or neutrally buoyant mine, free to move under the influence of wind, waves, current,
or tide.
ducting. A mode of propagation of electromagnetic energy, usually in the lower layers of Earth’s atmosphere,
where the waves are bent by atmospheric refraction. This creates a duct or waveguide effect where the waves
are trapped and partially follow the Earth’s curvature, causing part of the radiated and target-reflection energy
of a radar system to be guided over distances far greater than the normal radar range.
dummy load. Resistive termination or other device that closely simulates the characteristics of a radio fre-
quency transmitter system antenna but does not radiate an appreciable amount of radio frequency energy.
duplex. Circuit that provides two channels or frequencies linking two different stations, allowing the simulta-
neous exchange of information.
duplicate track numbers. The same track number used by two or more investigating units for two or more
different tracks.
duty. An identified block of related functions within a larger command structure that can be assigned to a single
subordinate. Assignment automatically delegates the requisite authority for command and control required to
fulfill the tasking. With the delegation of authority comes the inherent responsibility of the subordinate to the
assigning superior for execution of the task in accordance with known orders and procedures.
dwell time. The period of time that a target will remain stationary or that an activity will continue until com-
pleted. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
early fallout. Radioactive fallout that returns to Earth within 24 hours after a nuclear detonation. Also referred
to as local fallout.
echo. In active sonar, the sound waves generated by the projector to the target and reflected from the target back
to the hydrophone or source.
echo level. In active sonar, the level or strength of returning echo over a given range expressed in dB//µPa.
echo ranging. The process of determining range to an underwater object by measuring the interval of time nec-
essary for a transmitted pulse of sonic or supersonic energy to be reflected by that object.
echo sounding equipment. 1. Sonar equipment used to measure the depth of water beneath the keel of a ship
by obtaining echoes from the bottom. 2. Fathometer.
economic shipping. Shipping employed by nations to carry cargoes in support of their civil shipping operat-
ing commercially not in support of the military. In crisis regions, this category also may include privately char-
tered relief shipping not under direct military control.
eddy. 1. Circular water movement usually formed where currents pass by an obstruction between two oppositely
flowing currents or along the edge of a permanent current. 2. Large water masses, either cold or warm, that
break off from their parent water mass into a different water mass yet retain their specific properties for long
periods (months) before being assimilated.
effective range. The maximum distance at which a weapon may be expected to inflict casualties or damage.
effective visibility. In SAR, the approximate distance that an automobile may be recognized from an aircraft at
a particular search altitude. Used to determine search sweep widths over land.
Ekeland range. A method that provides an estimate of target range based on own-ship’s motion and target
bearing rates derived from the time/bearing plot.
electrical depth. In mine warfare, an environmental parameter associated with electrode sweeps used when
electrical depth is greater than actual depth. This occurs when the upper layer of the seabed becomes saturated
with seawater such that the conductivity of this layer approximates the conductivity of the seawater.
electronic countermeasures (ECM). Actions taken to prevent or reduce an enemy’s effective use of the
electromagnetic spectrum; includes electronic jamming and electronic deception, specifically manipulative de-
ception, simulative deception, and imitative deception.
electronic intercept. Actions taken to search for and identify electronic emissions.
electronic security. The protection resulting from all measures designed to deny unauthorized persons infor-
mation of value that might be derived from their interception and study of noncommunications electromagnetic
radiation (e.g., radar).
emission. Radio waves radiated into space by a radio transmitter or the process of ejecting electrons from the
surface of a material under the influence of heat, radiation, or other sources.
employment cycle. For ships, this cycle extends from the completion of one regular overhaul or, upon com-
missioning in the case of new ships, through the completion of the subsequent overhaul.
enabling run. The distance along the torpedo track from the launch point to the point at which the torpedo
enables.
endfire. In underwater acoustics, a reference to a signal detected at one of the extreme ends of a sonobuoy plant
or fixed array.
enemy course of action (ECOA). Broad and conclusive actions that an enemy force can carry out under con-
ditions favorable to them. Each ECOA represents a major option open to an enemy in the employment of the
force as a whole.
engagement grid. In information operations, the application of physical means to affect and shape the
battlespace. The engagement grid equates to decision superiority based on superior information filtered through
the commander’s experience, knowledge, training, and judgment; the expertise of supporting staffs and other
organizations; and the efficiency of associated processes, thus enabling the commander to employ speed of
command and to achieve overwhelming effect at precise places and times.
engagement planning. The process and procedures performed by the firing unit to build the overwater por-
tion of a TLAM mission from the launch position to the first preplanned waypoint. Decisions for each plan in-
clude the time and direction of launch, launch position, altitude commands, waypoint employment, and
quantity of ordnance.
equipage. Those items that require management control afloat because of any one or a combination of high unit
cost, vulnerability to pilferage, and/or are essential to the ship’s mission. Equipage does not encompass in-
stalled mechanical, electrical, ordnance, or electronic equipments (less personal computers), components, or
systems. Equipage items generally are identifiable to end-use applications aboard ships to the extent that an al-
lowed quantity of the item can be and is determined on an individual ship basis.
escort jamming. An electronic attack tactic whereby a jamming platform accompanies the strike vehicles and
provides protection by jamming enemy electronic systems.
escort leader. Designated by the striking group commander to command all fighter escort aircraft from the
striking group. May also be the strike commander, if so designated.
estimated launch position (ELP). In Block III weapons control systems, the ELP is the projected position of
own-ship at the launch time calculated for a time-on-top engagement plan, based on current course and speed.
evasion. As used in ASW operations, a change in the planned route or speed (but not the destination) of a force
or independent ship, usually ordered by the officer in tactical command for tactical reasons.
evasion time. The time available to evade ordnance after the last useful target data is received by the attacker
or the launching of ordnance, whichever occurs first. During this interval, the target may maneuver, while the
attacking ship is limited in effecting counteraction.
evasive steering. Alterations of course to complicate an attacker’s fire control problems by zigzagging,
sinuating, and weaving.
examination anchorage. An anchorage assigned for the purpose of detaining ships for examination. The an-
chorage is established outside the harbor defenses, and suspect ships are anchored there while their suspect sta-
tus is investigated and resolved. It is a precaution necessary to prevent the covert introduction of hostile cargo
or special weapons.
excess hazardous material. Unused hazardous material in full, properly sealed containers that can be re-
turned to the supply system for reissue.
exchange rate. In mine warfare, the number of mines laid per casualty.
exfiltrate. The movement of personnel or units out of or away from areas under enemy control. Also see
“exfiltration” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
expanded maritime interception operations (E-MIO). Broadened maritime interception operations to in-
tercept targeted personnel or material that poses an imminent threat to the United States. E-MIO may involve
multinational forces and may be implemented without sanctions.
expected casualties. In naval mine warfare, the average number of ship casualties in N transits of a
minefield.
expeditionary airfield. A prefabricated and fully portable airfield. The effort and assets required for the instal-
lation/operation of an expeditionary airfield can require the participation/support of all elements of the Marine
air-ground task force.
exploratory-reconnaissance objective. In naval mine warfare, determining whether mines are present or
not and, if so, establishing the limits of the mined area. This is usually the first objective when it is believed
that a minefield has been encountered.
explosive ordnance reconnaissance program. Reconnaissance involving the investigation, detection, lo-
cation, marking, initial identification, and reporting of suspected unexploded explosive ordnance by explosive
ordnance reconnaissance agents in order to determine further action.
extended maneuvering interval. The standard maneuvering interval plus 500 yards, unless otherwise or-
dered, to allow for station-keeping errors.
extraction. The removal of personnel or units from areas under enemy control by some type of platform.
false alarm density. The number of false targets per square nautical mile.
false target. An echo or noise source other than the real target, which can cause false detections and false
homing.
false target generator. Jammer that radiates apparent target return signals that can be received and processed
either completely or in part by a victim radar but which are actually false, confusing, or nonexistent in range,
angle, and/or velocity.
fastrope. A means of inserting forces from a helicopter by sliding down a line lowered from the helicopter us-
ing only handgrip tension to control the rate of descent.
field-of-view. In photography, the area in the object space that the camera will record when the picture is taken.
Also see “field of view” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
figure of demerit (FOD). 1. The maximum decrease in own-ship’s radiated noise that can be sustained and
still be detected by a submarine 50 percent of the time. 2. An estimated figure of merit used by opponent
against own-platform.
figure of merit (FOM). A measure of the effectiveness of a sonar set for a particular situation. It is the maxi-
mum allowable propagation loss that a signal can suffer for a system to meet a desired performance criterion,
usually a 50 percent probability of detection.
filter. A device for separating frequency components of a signal. This is accomplished by allowing components
in one or more frequency bands to pass through the filter relatively unattenuated, while attenuating components
in other frequency bands. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
final diameter. The diameter of the circle that will ultimately be described by a ship with a constant rudder an-
gle when a turn of 360° has been completed.
fire support officer (FSO). A full-time coordinator of all fire support and the field artillery commander’s rep-
resentative at the supported headquarters.
firebreaks. Administrative and physical steps taken to reduce the risk of an inadvertent weapons firing.
first preplanned waypoint (FPPWP). The starting point of the cruise missile support activity-planned por-
tion of a TLAM mission to which the firing unit’s engagement plan delivers the missile. The FPPWP has a
specified latitude, longitude, altitude, and departure heading.
flash-bang. A normally nonlethal explosive munition used to create diversion, confusion, and/or fear. It is em-
ployed during an assault. Also called flash-crash.
fleet issue load list (FILL). Consolidated listing of material to be carried onboard combat stores ships for the
support of operating afloat forces to ensure maximum fleet readiness. It is based on actual past demands of
those items most commonly requested by the fleet units.
fleet mail center. A DOD facility operated by the U.S. Navy to send, receive, distribute, combine, transfer, and
dispatch military mail for transportation to, from, and in overseas areas.
fleet support ship. A government-owned ship operated by the Military Sealift Command with a civilian crew
augmented by a military department. This type of ship is employed in direct support to the active fleets of the
U.S. Navy, providing logistics support in a manner comparable to that provided by Combat Logistics Support
Force ships manned and operated by U.S. Navy personnel.
flex deck. Aircraft carrier operation where unscheduled, continuous launch and recovery of aircraft is made
possible.
flight. Any number of aircraft, regardless of type (fixed-wing or helicopter), proceeding in company on a com-
mon mission or to the same destination.
float light. A day and night seamarker dropped by an aircraft or surface ship to mark a reference point.
float pendant. In mine warfare, a specified length of wire that attaches the marker float to the depressor or otter
and determines the sweep depth and swept path at the outboard end of mechanical sweep gear.
floe. Any relatively flat piece of sea ice 60 feet or more across. Floes are classified according to horizontal ex-
tent as follows (size/horizontal extent): giant/over 5 nm; vast/1 to 5 nm; big/500 to 2,000 yards; medium/300 to
1,500 feet; and small/60 to 300 feet.
flow noise. The noise produced by water movement past the transducer or hydrophone array housing; noise
produced at the hull of a moving ship; noise created by turbulent flow in the turbulent boundary layer around
the hydrophone.
focus of effort. The most important task to be accomplished by the force. It is the critical vulnerability chosen
to exploit, the paramount objective desired to accomplish. All actions should be oriented on that task.
force majeure. 1. An external, irresistible force or condition (natural or man-made such as a storm, fire, or dis-
ablement) of such severity that it threatens destruction of the vessel or loss of life unless immediate response
action is taken. 2. An event that cannot be anticipated or predicted that results in actions contrary to some law.
force module (FM). In maritime prepositioning force operations, a task organization that is tailored and
time-phased to meet specific challenges of operational environments ranging from permissive (i.e., foreign hu-
manitarian assistance) to hostile (i.e., major theater war in any area of responsibility). Also see DOD Dictio-
nary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
force over-the-horizon track coordinator (FOTC). The command designated to develop, maintain, and
broadcast a common tactical surface picture to all participating ships in a battle group (BG). The FOTC fuses
nonorganic data with the data gathered by organic sensors in the BG.
force self-defense areas. In maritime operations, areas existing within and as subsets of a maritime area of
operations. Size and geometric configuration of these areas/zones may differ from warfare mission area to war-
fare mission area. See surveillance area; classification, identification, and engagement area; and vital area.
force sustainment. Capabilities, equipment, and operations that ensure continuity, freedom of action, logistic
support, and command and control.
forcible entry. Seizing and holding a military lodgment in the face of armed opposition.
foreign object debris (FOD). Any material found in the vicinity of flight operations that could contribute to
the accidental damaging of an aircraft, generally as a result of an aircraft ingesting such material into an engine
and damaging its internal workings. Also see “foreign object damage” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
formation. An ordered arrangement of two or more ships, units, or aircraft proceeding together under a
commander.
formation axis. A reference line about which the stations, except screening stations, of a circular formation of
ships are arranged. In a formation consisting of both a main body and a screen, the formation axis is the axis of
the main body but is not the axis of the screen.
formation center. A position designated as the center of an ordered arrangement of ships, normally the geo-
metric center. It is the point of origin of a formation axis.
formation guide. The ship in each formation of a disposition on which the units in that formation take and
keep station.
forward logistic site (FLS). The forward-most land-based transshipment point that provides the bridge be-
tween an advanced logistic support site and units at sea. Also see “naval forward logistic site” in DOD Dictio-
nary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
forward presence. Maintaining forward deployed or stationed forces overseas to demonstrate national resolve,
strengthen alliances, dissuade potential adversaries, and enhance the ability to respond quickly to
contingencies.
frag. To lay on or assign as a mission or target. Derived from the term “fragmentary order” as defined in DOD
Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
free weapon. A weapon available for use that is not currently engaging a target and is capable of engaging at
least one target.
free-in-air-dose. Radiation that would be measured in air at a certain point. Military tactical dosimeters mea-
sure free-in-air-doses.
frequency agility. Ability of an electronic transmitting system to quickly change operating frequency.
front. In oceanography, the interface or transition zone between two water masses of different characteristics.
Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
full-dimension protection. The ability of the joint force to protect its personnel and other assets required to
decisively execute assigned tasks.
function. A defined activity that may be delegated to subordinates through specific assignment or as part of a
duty within the force command structure.
fundamental frequency. In underwater acoustics, the fundamental frequency of a group of frequencies is the
highest frequency that could produce the whole group as harmonics and is, therefore, the greatest common di-
visor of the frequencies in the group.
furthest-on-circle. In ASW operations, an expanding circle centered on a datum or search center, of which the
radius at any one time is a command estimate of maximum submarine travel from datum plus datum error.
fuzing range. The maximum distance from a target at which a proximity fuze can be expected to function.
gambit. A deception tactic that aims to induce a submarine to take some action that may render it liable to
detection.
gap. In naval mine warfare, an area within a minefield, obstacle belt, or enemy defensive scheme that is rela-
tively free of mines, obstacles, fires, or other substantial resistance (which may include a break in enemy tacti-
cal dispositions or formations), thus allowing an attacking force to penetrate with greater speed and power.
Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
gear-reduction ratio. The ratio of the speed of the input shaft of a gear train to the output shaft. With regard to
a marine propulsion plant, it is usually a reference to the ratio between the speed of the prime mover and the
speed of the propeller shaft.
general agency agreement (GAA). Pertains to government-owned ships operated under cost plus fixed-fee
contracts by commercial ocean carriers acting as general agents for the Maritime Administration, U.S. Depart-
ment of Commerce, and with whom Military Sealift Command has entered into agreements for the exclusive
use of such ships.
general support fire. Those artillery and naval gun fires delivered for the support of the landing as a whole by
ships or artillery units not providing direct support.
generated target bearing (relative or true). The relative or true bearing of a target as determined by a com-
puting instrument from previous positions of own-ship and target and an established rate of change of bearing.
geodetically controlled imagery. For imagery, the photogrammetric adjustment of one or more images rela-
tive to each other and to an absolute (fixed) ground reference system. Also called geopositioned imagery.
geodetic coordinates. The quantities of latitude, longitude, and height that define the position of a point on
the surface of the Earth with respect to the ellipsoid surface.
geodetic datum. Defines the position of a coordinate system in relation to the Earth. This definition includes
the determination of the origin, the scale and the orientation of the axes, and typically includes an ellipsoid
definition.
geodetic height. The height above the reference ellipsoid, measured along the ellipsoidal outer normal to the
point in question. Also called ellipsoid height.
geoid. An equipotential surface of the Earth’s gravity field that most nearly coincides with mean sea level. The
direction of gravity is everywhere perpendicular to the geoid. Oceanographic effects cause minor deviations be-
tween mean sea level and the geoid of generally less than one mile.
geopositioned imagery. For aerial reconnaissance imagery, the photogrammetric adjustment of one or more
images relative to each other and to an absolute (fixed) ground reference system. Also called geodetically con-
trolled imagery.
geospatial information. Maps, charts, other publications, and digital information associated with a specific
geographic location or region defined by geographic or grid coordinates. Also see “geospatial information and
services” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
global ordnance positioning. The fleet process of determining optimum locations worldwide for ammuni-
tion stocks. It considers combat and noncombat expenditure requirements, force deployments, throughput and
political factors, training locations, and other related factors.
gradient. The rate of change of one quantity with respect to another, especially the rate of change of tempera-
ture with depth. A positive gradient is a temperature increase with increasing depth; a negative gradient is a
temperature decrease with increasing depth. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
graywater. Wastewater from deck drains, lavatories, showers, dishwashers, laundries, garbage grinders, and
shipboard medical facilities that does not include industrial waste, infectious waste, or human body waste.
grazing angle. In underwater acoustics, the angle that a sound ray makes with an ocean boundary, measured in
degrees to the horizontal or boundary surface.
grid. A two-dimensional (plane) Cartesian coordinate system created by a map projection. Used to simplify read-
ing coordinates from a map. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
gridlock. A procedure for determining data registration corrective values (pads) by comparing remote tracks re-
ceived from a designated gridlock reference unit to local data.
gross explosive weight. One of the two systems of weight measurement that is significant in planning for
ammunition storage. The gross explosive weight is the total weight of the packaged round measured in short
tons (or pounds, when quantities are fractional tons).
ground effect. 1. A condition created when a helicopter’s rotor downwash is altered in its flow by contact with
the ground. This occurs while hovering or in very slow flight within one rotor diameter of the ground. The re-
sult of ground effect is that the helicopter requires less power to hover than when hovering out of ground effect.
2. The generation of an air cushion artificially created so that a vehicle is supported on the air cushion close to
the ground but nevertheless riding free; hence, utilizing this effect to eliminate ground friction. Also called
ground cushion.
ground gain. In air reconnaissance, the distance (usually in feet) that the aircraft travels during the time interval
between two consecutive exposures (or frames).
ground resolution. In air reconnaissance, the smallest area or object on the ground that is detectable in the
negative. Factors affecting ground resolution include focal length, altitude, film type, target contrast, atmo-
spheric conditions, and individual camera characteristics.
ground resonance. A condition of geometric imbalance in helicopters caused by offset dynamic forces when
the helicopter makes improper contact with the deck. If allowed to continue, destruction of the helicopter is im-
minent. Improper tiedowns aggravate the onset of ground resonance.
ground riverine close fire support. Supporting fires by organic or attached units of the ground component
of the mobile riverine force, including boat-transported and/or barge-mounted artillery.
guerrilla. An irregular, predominantly indigenous combatant who conducts paramilitary operations in en-
emy-held territory. Also see “guerrilla,” “guerrilla force,” “guerrilla warfare,” and “unconventional warfare” in
DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
guide. A designated ship on which other evolution units take and maintain their stations. The term is modified
by the words disposition, formation, station unit (or other unit as appropriate) to specify a particular guide.
Also see line guide.
guillotine. A portable, explosive, cable-cutting device used to sever the airborne mine countermeasures tow
wire in an emergency.
gun laying. The process of positioning guns in train and elevation in a predetermined relationship with respect
to the line of sight. The line of sight may be estimated at an aloft director, generated in the plotting room, or es-
tablished at the gun.
gun wear. Normal gun bore erosion, calculated in terms of equivalent services rounds. Gun wear reduces initial
velocity, terminal accuracy, and maximum range.
gunfiring rates. 1. deliberate: fire delivered at a rate intentionally less than normal to permit adjustment correc-
tions, to meet specific tactical requirements, or to conserve ammunition. 2. rapid: no check fire is used for the
purpose of applying corrections. It is the maximum rate that can be maintained for a given period. 3. slow: fire
deliberately delayed to allow for the application of corrections or to conserve ammunition.
gyro angle. In underwater warfare, the angle, measured left or right, between the torpedo tube longitudinal axis
and the desired torpedo course as computed by the fire control system.
gyro angle order. The angular quantity transmitted to the torpedo that determines its initial postlaunch turn to
preenable course, measured relative to the ship’s head.
half channel. In underwater acoustics, an upward-refracting condition where the sound-speed gradient is posi-
tive from the surface all the way to the bottom. In a half channel, sound waves behave as if in a very thick sur-
face duct.
hang fire. Failure of the propelling charge to burn properly, causing delayed firing. Also see DOD Dictionary
(JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
harassing (air). The attack of any target within the area of land battle not connected with interdiction or close
air support. It is designed to reduce the enemy’s combat effectiveness. Also see “harassment” and “harassing
fire” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
harassment mines. Mines set to function against sweepers or to project the psychological threat of a
minefield.
harbor approach defense (HAD). The employment of forces to ensure the unimpeded use of an inshore
coastal area, including a defensive sea area, by friendly forces and, as appropriate, to deny the use of the area to
enemy forces.
harbor defense area. Tactical subdivisions established to provide early detection, location, and identification
of enemy surface or underwater craft approaching within striking distance of ships at anchorage or harbor
installation.
harbor defense commander (HDC). An officer designated by the Joint Task Force Commander or Naval
Coastal Warfare Commander to conduct inshore surveillance, interdiction, vessel movement control, and water-
side security operations in a port, harbor, anchorage, or designated defensive sea area.
harbor screen (sortie or entry). A screen about a harbor entrance to give antisubmarine protection to ships
entering or leaving the harbor.
harmonic. In underwater acoustics, a harmonic is a frequency that is an integer multiple of the fundamental fre-
quency. The second and third harmonics of a 10-Hz fundamental, for example, will occur at 20 Hz and 30 Hz
respectively.
harmonic chart. An aid used in determining harmonic relationships. It lists at least the first 0 harmonics for ev-
ery fundamental frequency from 1.0 Hz to 51.8 Hz (at 0.1-Hz intervals).
haven. 1. Safe area located in the forward operating area where ships can be staged for provisioning or repair, or
to await tasking. 2. A depth band in which a submarine will be safe from torpedo attack due to the stratum in-
hibits placed on the torpedo by floor and/or ceiling presets. Also see “havens (moving)” in DOD Dictionary (JP
1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
hazardous material (HAZMAT). Any material that because of its quantity, concentration, or physical or
chemical characteristics may pose a substantial hazard to human health or to the environment when released in-
cluding, but not limited to: aerosol containers, flammable materials, toxic materials, corrosive materials, oxi-
dizing materials, and compressed gasses.
hazardous waste (HW). 1. A solid waste or combination of solid wastes that because of its quantity, concen-
tration, or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics may: a) cause or significantly contribute to an in-
crease in mortality or an increase in irreversible or incapacitating reversible illness, or b) pose a substantial
present or potential hazard to human health or to the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported,
disposed of, or otherwise managed. The term solid waste includes liquid, semi-solid, or contained gaseous ma-
terial. 2. Any waste that requires special precaution in its storage, collection, transportation, treatment, or dis-
posal to prevent damage to persons or property, including explosive, flammable, volatile, radioactive, toxic,
and pathological wastes.
heat strain. The body’s reaction to heat stress. The reaction may be local, such as a burn, or generalized, such
as an increase in core (inner) body temperature.
heat stress. Subjecting the body to higher than normal temperatures. Heat stress may be caused by a high tem-
perature environment or by wearing clothing, such as a firefighter’s ensemble, that impedes the body’s normal
cooling.
height above bottom (HAB). In mine warfare, the distance from the seabed to the moored mine case or
minelike object.
helicopter action group (HAG). A unit comprised of two or more helicopters that are assigned to counter a
particular surface threat.
helicopter control ship (HCS). A commander or ship delegated by the officer in tactical command to take
tactical control of all helicopters. It will normally be the screen commander, except in the case of windline
screening.
helicopter element coordinator (HEC). The officer delegated some or all of the officer in tactical com-
mand’s detailed responsibilities for management and coordination of rotary wing air assets.
helicopter wave. One or more helicopters grouped under a single leader and scheduled to land in the same
landing zone at approximately the same time. A helicopter wave comprises one or more flights and can consist
of helicopters from more than one ship. Also see “wave” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
Helmholtz resonance. In underwater acoustics, tones produced by water flow past an opening in a ship
superstructure.
high seas. All parts of the sea that are not included in the exclusive economic zone, the territorial sea, the inter-
nal waters of a state, or the archipelagic waters of an archipelagic state.
highline method of transfer. A means of transferring light and medium cargo underway in which a highline
(wire or synthetic line) between the delivering and receiving ships supports a trolley with cargo hook attached.
holddown. An operation designed to keep a submarine submerged, limiting it to its submerged capabilities for
gaining intelligence, communicating, and gaining attack position, and thus forcing it to deplete its battery
capacity.
hold-down. In ASW, an operation designed to keep a diesel-electric submarine submerged, thus limiting it to its
submerged capabilities in attacking, gaining intelligence, and communicating, and forcing it to use up battery
capacity.
home on jam (HOJ). Angular and/or range tracking of a target by a missile or other weapon seeker that uti-
lizes the jamming signal radiated by the target.
host nation support operations. Operations conducted to support the security, stability, and well-being of
other governments and populations. These operations include long-term programs included in nation assis-
tance, short-term efforts included in humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief and support to insurgency.
host/tenant agreement. An agreement between two commands outlining the services that the installation will
provide to the tenant and the tenant’s responsibilities.
hostile country vessel. A vessel that, because of country of registry, ownership, charter, or crew makeup, is
controlled in or prohibited entry to the harbor defense commander’s area of operations.
hot pursuit. A situation where a vessel is being chased or pursued after having violated a coastal state’s laws,
and the chase extends beyond the normal jurisdictional bounds of the pursuing vessel(s). Also see DOD Dictio-
nary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
hot run. A torpedo that starts its propulsion motor or engine without being released from the submarine.
hot zone. Area immediately surrounding a dangerous goods incident, which extends far enough to prevent ad-
verse effects from released dangerous goods to personnel outside the zone. The zone also is referred to as ex-
clusion zone, red zone, or restricted zone in other documents.
hover. A condition of flight in which all relative or actual movement has ceased. Also see “hovering” and “hov-
ering ceiling” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
hull-to-emitter correlation (HULTEC). Association of a radar pulse repetition frequency/pulse repetition in-
terval to a specific platform because of the uniqueness and stability of the emitter and the accuracy of the mea-
surement system.
hung ordnance. Airborne weapons that cannot be fired or dropped because of weapon, rack, or circuit mal-
function. Also see “hung weapons” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
hydrophone. In acoustic mine and underwater warfare, the detecting element in sound equipment that converts
the sound vibratory pressure to an electrical signal.
hydrophone sensitivity (HS). A decibel function that relates hydrophone voltage output to the sound pres-
sure level sensed in the water, expressed in units of dB//1 volt µPa.
ice cover. The ratio in tenths (or eighths) of the sea surface actually covered by ice to the total sea surface, both
ice-covered and ice-free, at a specific location or over a defined area. Also called ice concentration.
ice edge. The demarcation at any given time between the open sea and sea ice of any kind, whether fast or drift-
ing. The ice edge may be termed compacted or diffuse.
ice field. Area of pack ice that consists of floes of any size and is greater than 5 nm across.
icebound. A harbor, inlet, etc., is icebound when navigation by ships, except with the assistance of an ice-
breaker, is prevented by the presence of ice.
identification. The determination of the exact nature of an object that has been detected and classified. Also see
DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
identified risk. A risk determined by applying severity and probability analysis to an identified threat.
illumination. The amount of light striking a surface. The common unit of measurement is the foot-candle (ft-c).
illuminator. The part of a fire control system designed to provide illumination for semiactive weapon homing.
image resolution. In air reconnaissance, the ability of the entire photographic system, including lens, expo-
sure, and other factors, to render a sharply defined image. Expressed in line pairs per millimeter (lp/mm).
indicated Mach number (IMN). Airspeed, compared to the speed of sound, as calculated by onboard instru-
ments and uncorrected for the effects of humidity, temperature, atmospheric pressure, or wind.
indications and warning. Phrase used to describe an indication of an enemy course of action and/or early
warning of impending hostile action. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
indicators. 1. Positive or negative evidence of threat activity. 2. Any characteristic of the area of operations that
points toward threat vulnerabilities or the adoption or rejection by the threat of a particular capability. 3. Activ-
ities or information that may influence the commander’s selection of a course of action.
INDIGO. A message in U.S. message text format used to order the execution of conventional, land-attack cruise
missile launches.
indirect fire. A form of NGS fire used against targets that cannot be seen from the ship. Also see direct fire. See
indirect fire in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
industry-owned, bareboat-chartered ships. Those ships that the owner delivers to Military Sealift Com-
mand (MSC) for an extended period of time (usually 20 years), vesting in MSC for that period of time most of
the incidents of ownership (e.g., manning, operation, and control). These ships are designated U.S. Navy ships
and use the prefix “USNS” with the ship name and the letter “T” as a prefix to the ship classification (e.g.,
T-AKR). These ships may be either MSC operated (civil service) or contractor operated.
industry-owned, time-chartered ships. These are commercially owned ships, chartered to Military Sealift
Command (MSC) for a period of time. MSC has control of the ship and directs the movement (unless opera-
tional control has been transferred).
in-extremis hostage recovery. Direct action mission to locate, recover, and restore to friendly control per-
sons held captive, isolated, or threatened in a situation of such exceptional urgency that immediate action must
be taken to minimize imminent loss of life or catastrophic degradation of the political or military situation.
influence field. In mine warfare, the distribution in space of the influence of a ship or minesweeping equip-
ment. It may be referred to as zone about a ship or sweep disturbed or altered by the presence of the ship or
gear relative to magnetic, acoustic, pressure, or other disturbances that may actuate a mine firing mechanism
without physical contact between ship and mine or its attachment.
information attack. That division of information warfare involving the manipulation or destruction of an ad-
versary’s information or information system combat capability without necessarily changing visibly the physi-
cal entity within which it resides; it is considered a form of fires.
information management (IM). The provision of quality information to the right person at the right time in a
usable form to facilitate understanding and decision-making.
information warfare commander (IWC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the officer del-
egated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for information warfare and
granted the tactical control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
infrared intelligence (IRINT). Intelligence derived from information collected by infrared sensors.
infrared signature. The infrared signature is determined by the sum of all heat sources (mechanical, electrical,
and solar), such as engine exhaust, gear boxes, reflection from windows and wind screens, reflective paint, and
lights.
infrasonic sound. Sound below the range of human hearing (below approximately 20 Hz).
inherently dangerous. An activity or task containing a danger to life or limb that is a permanent and insepara-
ble element of the activity. This term and its definition are applicable only in the context of this publication and
should not be referenced outside this publication.
initial point. In mine warfare operations, a preselected point on the surface of the Earth that is used as a refer-
ence. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
initial salvo error. A term used in conventional gunnery to indicate the distance and direction from target to the
mean point of impact of the initial salvo.
initial threat. In mine warfare, the probability that the first ship to attempt to transit a minefield will be dam-
aged to a specified level.
insertion. Placement of observation posts, patrols, or raiding parties by helicopter, parachute, watercraft, or
other means. Stealth is normally desired in the execution of an insertion.
inshore area. The water area adjacent to a land mass in which the proximity and contour of the bottom or the
nearby coastline influences and limits the effectiveness of deep-water assets and systems. This area normally
extends seaward to a fixed distance established by the area commander as necessary to protect assets located in
ports, harbors, approaches, amphibious objective areas, choke points, straits, and roadsteads from surface and
subsurface threats. Also see “defensive sea area” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
inshore boat unit (IBU). A deployable, armed, small craft unit (two boats) that provides small craft security
support for naval coastal warfare (NCW) operations in the NCW area.
inshore operations. Operations in sea areas in which geographic and hydrographic conditions impose restric-
tions on the movement of shipping and/or submarines.
inshore undersea warfare (IUW). Operations conducted with the objective of denying the enemy the effec-
tive use of the inshore area.
inshore waters. The inner parts of confined waters including navigable estuaries and harbors.
integrated operations. Operations under which a designated unit is attached to a specific task force/group un-
der tactical command (TACOM) and tactical control of the officer in tactical command (OTC) of the specified
task torce/group. Upon receiving TACOM, the OTC assumes the responsibility for all operations and safety of
the assigned unit. Operational control remains with the assigning authority.
integrated search plans. In ASW operations, search plans used in coordinated ship/helicopter operations.
They are primarily designed either to extend the search attack unit (SAU) search line or to augment the SAU in
gaining or regaining contact.
integrated strike. A simultaneous attack by TLAM and TACAIR in which ordnance impact time can be criti-
cal to the successful completion of the strike. Integrated strikes strive for a synergistic effect between TLAM
and TACAIR.
intelligence center. In air reconnaissance, the ground or ship-based intelligence system where photographic
and electronic intelligence is processed, evaluated, and stored or forwarded to using agents or agencies, consis-
tent with the tactical situation.
intensity (sound). In underwater acoustics, 1. The amount of sound energy per second crossing a unit area. 2.
The square of the sound pressure level divided by the impedance of the water (a measure of sound power per
unit area).
intercept. 1. To detect and identify enemy aircraft beyond visual range by day methods or by all-weather and
night methods. 2. To detect and identify distant electronic signals.
intercept guard. The frequency range that a designated unit is assigned to monitor and to report all intercepted
enemy or unidentified signals within that frequency range to the controlling ship.
interference. Any electromagnetic disturbance that interrupts, obstructs, or otherwise degrades or limits the ef-
fective performance of electronics or electrical equipment.
intermediate support base (ISB). In riverine and coastal operations, a facility that is capable of providing
major maintenance on craft (overhaul is not included). It usually supports one or more small support bases.
intermediate water depth mine (IWDM). A weapon system targeted against both high and low speed surface
and subsurface targets in the gaps between shallow-bottom and deep-moored mines.
internal wave. A wave that occurs in the ocean medium either at a surface of density discontinuity (as in fronts)
or at the boundary between the mixed layer and the thermocline.
intersection. In photogrammetry, the process in which the light rays through the image points and exposure sta-
tions of each geodetically controlled image of a stereopair are crossed to determine the desired ground point
coordinate.
inter-service support agreement (ISSA). A formal, legal, and binding funding document that specifies ac-
tions and responsibilities to be performed by the service provider and the receiver. Also see “inter-Service,
intragovernmental agreements,” and “inter-Service support” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
intervalometer. An electrical device used in releasing/firing weapons at a constant predetermined time interval
between releases.
intrusion. The intentional insertion of electromagnetic energy into transmission paths in any manner with the
objective of deceiving the operators or of causing confusion. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
isohaline. A line or surface drawn on a map or chart to indicate connecting points of equal salinity.
isospeed. In underwater acoustics, values of sound speed are the same in all parts of a given water column;
there is no change in sound speed with depth.
isothermal. In underwater acoustics, temperature is equal or constant with respect to space or time; there is no
increase or decrease in temperature with depth.
jam-to-signal ratio. The ratio of the effective jamming signal power in the victim electronic system bandwidth
to the desired signal power.
j-blade propeller. A propeller designed to reduce cavitation. The name is derived from its resemblance to the
letter J.
jettison. Discarding a weapon from a delivery vehicle when normal operation is not intended. Also see DOD
Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
jink. An unpredictable maneuver (usually changing both direction and altitude) conducted by an aircraft to evade
hostile weapon engagement parameters.
jinking. Random changes in heading, altitude, and “g” acceleration in order to present a continuously changing
flight path.
jitter. Small, rapid, perhaps random, fluctuations about an intended or average value.
joint action area (JTAA). A waterspace management area in which a single friendly submarine is operating in
coordination with air and/or surface forces. Air and surface ASW attacks are prohibited throughout the JTAA
unless a NOTACK area or a submarine-generated search area has been established.
kite. In naval mine warfare, a towed planing device that causes the inboard lateral end of the sweep to assume a
determined depth. Also known as a depressor in mechanical sweeping. See DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
knowledge superiority. The ability to achieve a real-time, shared understanding of the battlespace at all levels
through a network that provides the rapid accumulation of all the information that is needed — and the dissem-
ination of that information to the commander as the knowledge is needed — to make a timely and informed de-
cision inside any potential adversary’s sensor and engagement time line.
knuckle. Wake turbulence having great persistence caused by a tight turn of a surface ship or submarine. Fre-
quently misinterpreted as the target by the sonar operator.
ladder. A succession of salvos fired with known and predetermined changes between successive salvos to ensure
early establishment of a hitting gun range and deflection in surface fire, to serve as a yardstick for covering an
area target, or to increase pattern size.
landfall. In TLAM operations, the point at which the missile crosses the coastline and begins overland flight.
landing ship areas. Areas assigned to landing ships prior to or after carrying out such operations as causeway
launching, amphibious vehicle launching, or beaching.
lateral coverage. In air reconnaissance operations, the ground distance represented by and included in an aerial
photograph as measured on a line perpendicular to the line of flight.
lateral range. The minimum distance (at closest approach) between target and observer. When the target is at
rest, lateral range is the perpendicular distance between the target and the observer’s track.
lateral separation. The distance between the tracks of adjacent ships in a formation, particularly during
multi-ship sweep endeavors, measured at right angles to the sweep track.
launch area. In TLAM operations, the area for which a launch area coordinator is responsible and which may
include the waterspace used by the assigned firing units and the surrounding airspace. The size of a launch area
is determined by the firing dispositions of launch and support units, the organic sensors and C2 capabilities, re-
quired maneuvering room, other friendly operations, threats to the strike force, and neutral activity.
launch area coordinator (LAC). The Tomahawk strike coordinator’s (TSC) principal deputy, responsible for
leading the TLAM launch platforms through execution of the TLAM strike. Coordinates on-scene requirements
and makes consolidated reports to the TSC.
launch basket. The area from which TLAM may be launched to execute a mission. The launch basket is
largely a function of uncommitted fuel onboard the missile and the waypoint turn restraint at the first pre-
planned waypoint. The size and orientation of the launch basket vary with each mission, overwater points en-
tered, and may also be affected by the employment of time-on-target capability. For precision strike Tomahawk
missions, the launch basket reflects the fuel needed to fly the longest possible route, whether to the target or to
a divert area.
launch window. A time interval that defines the period in which a surface ship weapons control system intends
to launch a TLAM on a particular engagement plan. The launch window is calculated from launch time earliest
until some operator-entered launch time latest, which may be as late as 238 minutes after the launch time calcu-
lated for the plan.
law enforcement detachment (LEDET). A detachment designated to enforce international maritime law.
law enforcement unit. A Coast Guard cutter, Navy ship, or boat from either service involved in counterdrug,
alien migrant interdiction operations, or other law enforcement activity.
layer depth. The depth of the lower edge of the surface layer, that is, the top of the thermocline. Also may be
the depth of maximum sound speed near the surface. See DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
layer effect. When sound passes through a layer in which little or no bending of the ray path occurs and then
passes into a layer with a strong negative gradient (causing sharp downward bending of the ray), increased
spreading occurs with a consequent loss of sound intensity.
leadthrough operations. Mine warfare operations intended to assist traffic in the transit of portions of a
mined area previously subjected to an MCM effort.
letter of instruction (LOI). Used in the higher echelons of military service to convey broad aims and strategic
plans or general policy guidance of an operational nature not suited for promulgation in an operation plan or or-
der. It has the same authority as an operation plan or order.
L-hour. In amphibious operations, the time at which the first helicopter of the helicopter-borne assault wave
touches down in the landing zone. Also see “times” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
light level. Light level is the ambient light produced by natural sources of sky light combined with any moon-
light. Illumination is normally expressed in lux. Light level is categorized as follows: a) low light level:
illuminance below 0.0022 lux. b) high light level: illuminance equal to or above 0.0022 lux.
limited range intercept (LRI). Communication technique for reducing high frequency communications inter-
ception probability.
limiting depth. In underwater acoustics, the depth below the deep sound channel axis where the sound speed
equals the maximum near-surface sound speed.
limiting ray. In underwater acoustics, the sound ray that becomes tangent at the depth where the sound speed is
at maximum; it delimits the outer boundary of direct (before reflection) sound rays.
limpet. A sea route, other than an approach, coastal, or transit route, that connects two or more routes.
line abreast. A line in which ships form directly abeam of the line guide.
line guide. When ships are formed in a multiple line formation, the line guide is the ship occupying the station
in her own line that corresponds to that of the guide in the guide’s line or, within any line in which no ship oc-
cupies the corresponding station, the ship designated by the officer in tactical command.
line of bearing. A line in which ships form in a straight line on a line guide in any direction except ahead,
astern, or abeam.
link route. A sea route, other than an approach, coastal, or transit route, that connects two or more routes.
lithometeor. Atmospheric phenomenon that affects the state of the atmosphere. It constitutes dry particles that
hang suspended in the atmosphere, such as dust, smoke, sand, and haze.
littoral. In military operations, a coastal region consisting of the seaward area from the open ocean to the shore
that must be controlled to support operations ashore, and the landward area inland from the shore that can be
supported and defended directly from the sea.
live period. In multilook mines, the maximum time interval after the first look during which additional looks
will be accepted to satisfy all of the subsequent looks and mine logic to cause an actuation.
live shipment. Relative to Military Sealift Command, support of amphibious operations, vehicles with gasoline
in their tanks (usually three/fourths full) and battery cables connected.
localization. The process of reducing the general area of a contact to an approximate geographic area or fixed
position.
logistic support base (LSB). In riverine and coastal operations, a major support and craft overhaul facility.
An LSB normally supports two or more intermediate support bases.
logistics force. A naval task organization that performs missions for the logistic support of operations.
logistics group. A major naval administration and/or tactical organization, consisting of the commander and
the staff, designed to exercise operational control and administrative command of assigned squadrons and units
in executing their tasks of providing logistic support of fleet operations.
look zone. The area outside the screen in which a submarine may come shallow to use sonar, periscope, or ra-
dar to acquire accurate target or screen information before commencing screen penetration.
loose control. A form of aircraft mission control in which the aircraft commander selects his own speed, alti-
tude, heading, and the appropriate tactics to accomplish the assigned task. The controlling unit will advise the
aircraft of the current tactical picture and will provide further advice if and when available. See also broadcast
control and close control.
loose line abreast. A formation in which ships stay within 15º of the guide or ship indicated relative to the
base course.
loose line of bearing. A line of bearing assumed on the basis of either a true or relative line of bearing in
which ships stay within 15º of the bearing or its reciprocal.
loose line of column. An approximate line of bearing within 15º of column in which distance may be in-
creased to reduce yawing.
low-probability intercept equipment. An intercept receiver that employs directional antennas and/or vari-
able frequency and that will not detect a transmission unless frequency, direction, and polarization are in cor-
rect coincidence with the victim at the instant of transmission.
luminance. The amount of light per unit area reflected from or emitted by a surface. Although this measure-
ment is frequently called brightness, strictly speaking, brightness is influenced by contrast, adaptation, and
other factors besides the physical energy in the stimulus.
magnetic anomaly detection (MAD). The detection of magnetic materials through the distortions they pro-
duce in the normal magnetic field of the earth.
magnetic self-protection. The protection of ships and submarines by degaussing to reduce the magnetic sig-
natures and to minimize the possibility of magnetic mine actuation.
magnetic signature. The characteristic pattern of magnetic fields produced by a ship as it moves through the
Earth’s magnetic field.
magnetic silencing. The reduction of the magnetic signature of a ship through the use of construction materi-
als as well as techniques, degaussing, and the control of magnetic equipment.
main body. The principal units and ships of a formation that are being screened.
main effort. The friendly unit or group (controlled by a single designated commander) that constitutes the prin-
ciple means to accomplish an objective.
main thermocline. The layer of water between the surface layer and the deep layer; it is characterized by a
negative sound speed gradient. Also known as the permanent thermocline.
maneuver warfare. A philosophy that seeks to collapse the enemy’s cohesion and effectiveness through a se-
ries of rapid, violent, and unexpected actions that create a turbulent and rapidly deteriorating situation, with
which the enemy cannot cope.
maneuvering interval. When similar ships are formed in a multiple line formation, maneuvering interval is
the sum of the standard distances in the longest line, plus one standard distance; with dissimilar ships, it is the
sum of the standard distances in the longest line, plus the longest standard distance in any line, including the
only ship in a line if the standard distance for that ship is larger than that of any other ship present.
marginal ice zone (MIZ). The transition region between the solid ice pack and the open seas in polar regions.
The MIZ is a region of high ambient noise across a wide frequency spectrum. It consists of those Arctic and
sub-Arctic waters that are ice-covered in winter and open in summer.
marginal sea-ice zone. 1. General description for large geographic areas: Those arctic and subarctic waters
that are ice covered in winter and open in summer. 2. Operational description for the vicinity of an ice edge:
The fringe area from the region of first encounter with sea ice to the region that is continuously covered with
sea ice (where the vertical sound speed profile is usually stable).
marine mammal system (MMS). The employment of marine mammals by explosive ordnance disposal
forces in locating, marking, and recovering underwater objects, and in conducting mine countermeasures and
other special operations.
maritime interception operations (MIO). Enforcement, through query and visit of merchant shipping (in-
cluding armed boarding parties), of economic or military sanctions established by a sanctioning body, such as
the United Nations, to prevent entry/exit of contraband into/from a designated country or exclusion zone.
maritime interception operations commander (MIOC). Under the composite warfare commander con-
cept, the officer delegated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for maritime
interception operations and granted the tactical control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
maritime prepositioning force (MPF). A task organization of units under one commander formed for the
purpose of introducing a Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) and its associated equipment and supplies into
a secure area. The MPF is composed of a command element, a maritime prepositioning ships squadron, a
MAGTF, and a Navy support element.
maritime prepositioning force independent operation (MPFIO). A maritime prepositioning force opera-
tion that does not augment an existing operation.
maritime special operations. Special operations conducted in a maritime environment: on, under, and from
the sea, rivers, or other waterways, including those land targets that are best approached from the water.
marker. In naval operations, a maritime unit that maintains an immediate offensive or obstructive capability
against a specified target. Also see shadower, shadowing.
masking. In underwater acustics, a term used to describe those instances where the signature of a target of inter-
est is obscured by broadband noise or by another discrete frequency.
master mission library (MML). In TLAM operations, the compilation of commander-in-chief approved mis-
sions maintained by the two cruise missile support activities; the library of all missions resident on the mission
distribution system.
material conditions. The progressive steps through which ships attain the battle condition to provide maxi-
mum practicable watertight, firetight, and fumetight integrity. All combatant ships are three-condition ships:
XRAY, YOKE, and ZEBRA (the latter being the battle condition).
maximum sonar speed. The maximum speed at which an individual ship can proceed without unacceptably
degrading its sonar performance.
maximum speed. The highest speed at which a ship is capable of proceeding when using full power.
maximum towing speed. In mine warfare, the speed through the water that may not be exceeded without
causing damage to the mine countermeasures gear or the towing vehicle.
MCM level (M). In mine warfare, the average number of times that a representative mine is exposed to a mine
countermeasures system.
meaconing, intrusion, jamming, and interference (MIJI). A program that identifies and provides a means
to counter foreign electronic warfare efforts to probe, harass, deceive, and deny friendly use of communications
and electromagnetic resources.
mean detection range (MDR). In underwater acoustics, the range at which there is a 50-percent chance of de-
tecting a particular target with a particular figure-of-merit and propagation-loss profile.
mean sea level (MSL). The average height of the surface of the sea for all stages of the tide, used as a refer-
ence surface for elevations.
mechanical sweeping. The countering of mines by physically contacting the mine cases or by severing the
mooring cables. Also see “mechanical sweep” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
median detection range (MDR). In underwater acoustics, the range at which there is a 50-percent chance of
detecting a particular target with a particular figure-of-merit (FOM) and propagation-loss (PL) profile. It is the
range where the FOM line first intersects the PL curve.
medical regulating control center (MRCC). The coordination center for movement of casualties within and
out of a naval task force. Normally located with the flagship, the MRCC is supervised by the medical regulat-
ing control officer.
memorandum of agreement (MOA). A document that clarifies specific actions and responsibilities, concern-
ing an event or process, between two or more activities.
memorandum of understanding (MOU). A document that specifies actions and responsibilities to be per-
formed by the provider and receiver but only in general terms. Where applicable, an MOU should be backed by
an inter-Service support agreement.
military situation. A situation involving any action by a foreign military or subversive force that intentionally
poses a clear and present danger to the security of the United States or any of its forces, territories, or posses-
sions. The hostile forces must use, have used, or threaten to use deadly force.
military standard (MIL-STD). A prescribed engineering method or related practice that, when referenced in a
contract, becomes a mandatory procedure for suppliers to follow in furnishing material to the military. An ex-
ample is MILSTD-100 (Engineering Drawing Practices).
mine actuation level (MAL). The change in magnitude of the field, rate of change of field, etc., required to
actuate a mine.
mine countermeasures (MCM). In naval mine warfare, the means that include all offensive and defensive
measures for countering a mine threat, whether it be the prevention of enemy mine laying activity, ship
self-protection, or locating and neutralizing mines. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
mine countermeasures objectives. Four specific types of mine countermeasures (MCM) objectives have
been identified that respond to the different needs/requirements of the MCM force: exploratory/reconnaissance,
breakthrough, attrition, and clearing.
mine danger area (MDA). An area, varying in size, circumscribing the position of each discovered mine for
an initial minefield estimate.
mine exploitation. The process of recovering, rendering safe, and analyzing the mine, its sensors, and system
to determine the mine countermeasures necessary to sweep or hunt mines. This technique uses explosive ord-
nance disposal personnel to render-safe, recover, and field-evaluate a mine.
mine locating. The procedure that detects, accurately locates, and/or identifies mines after they have been laid.
It includes techniques that reveal the presence of mines without disturbing them.
mine neutralization. An action using external means to render a mine incapable of detonating on the passage
of a target, although it may remain dangerous to handle.
mine sensitivity. A measure of the threshold level at which a mine’s sensors and firing logic will respond to
target influence signals, as determined by the variable settings available on the mine.
mine sweeping. The technique of searching for or clearing mines that physically removes or destroys the
mine, or produces the influence fields necessary to actuate it. Also see “minesweeping” in DOD Dictionary (JP
1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
mine warfare commander (MIWC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the officer delegated
some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for mine warfare and granted the tacti-
cal control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
mine warfare pilot (MWP). A comprehensive collection of environmental and geographic data as well as mine
and mine countermeasures environmental characteristics for a specific area.
minefield activation. An occurrence wherein the first mine of the field becomes armed.
minefield length. That dimension of a minefield segment parallel to the anticipated target track. The transit
distance through the minefield.
minefield threat. The probability of a vessel detonating at least one mine on each pass through the field.
minefield width. That dimension of the minefield segment that is perpendicular to the anticipated target track.
The width is across the front of the minefield.
minelaying. Placement of naval mines (air, surface, and subsurface launched) to achieve a planned tactical/lo-
gistic advantage over specific ocean, harbor, lake, or river areas and associated waterborne traffic.
minimum mine spacing. Minimum mine spacing refers to the least distance the weapons must be separated in
order to prevent failure or sympathetic detonation.
minimum towing speed. In mine warfare, the slowest speed through the water at which it is possible to pro-
ceed with mine countermeasures gear streamed and still counter mines.
mining. One of two distinct subdivisions of mine warfare, mining embraces all methods whereby naval mines
are used to inflict damage on adversary shipping to hinder, disrupt, and deny adversary sea operations.
mission. The data elements that are assembled by the weapon control system to program a TLAM to attack a
specific aim point. Mission data includes the aim point, warhead fuzing, allowable missile variants/subvariants,
terminal maneuver, navigational information, flightpath and in-flight commands, and the launch basket.
mission abort damage. In mine warfare, that level of damage necessary to prevent a target vessel from com-
pleting the mission it was assigned. A mission abort would not be repairable at sea but may not be so severe as
to cause immediate sinking or destruction.
mission analysis. In TLAM operations, the TLAM planning system process that estimates specific mission
performance parameters. These estimates are made using the navigation, clobber, defense systems, and perfor-
mance analyses modules.
mission data update (MDU). In TLAM operations, the process of electronically transmitting new mission
data from a mission distribution system (MDS) to units that have already received their mission data transport
devices or MDS tapes.
mission distribution system (MDS). In TLAM operations, a computer system and application software sup-
ported by the Cruise Missile Program Office to distribute TLAM missions created by the TLAM planning sys-
tem. MDS is used to plan TLAM strikes or to transmit or relay MDUs. It also functions as a data base and
Tomahawk inventory/accountability management tool.
mission load allowance. List of ordnance required to be carried in support of the ship’s mission, excluding
the ship’s own armament. Mission load allowance is generally applicable to aircraft carriers, maritime
prepositioning ships, amphibious warfare ships, destroyers, and submarine tenders.
mixed layer. The upper layer of the ocean that has been mixed by wave action, thus having the same tempera-
ture. Also see mixed layer depth.
mobilization planning. The process of preparing for war or other emergencies by which the armed forces, or
part of them, are brought to a state of readiness for war or other national emergency by assembling and orga-
nizing reserve personnel, supplies, and material for active military service.
monopulse radar. A simultaneous lobing radar that measures both azimuth and elevation directions of a target
on the basis of a single pulse and measures range in the conventional fashion.
monostatic. In underwater acoustics, refers to the case in active sonar where the active source and the receiving
hydrophone are co-located. Also see bistatic and multistatic.
multipath propagation. In underwater acoustics, the process or condition in which sound travels between two
points in the ocean (especially source and receiver) via more than one path, generally considered detrimental to
sonar operations.
multiplex (MUX). The technique of combining two or more independent communication channels. Also see
“multiplexer” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
multistatic. Refers to the case in active sonar where there is an active source and multiple receivers, some of
which are separated from the source. Also see bistatic and monostatic.
narrowband. In underwater acoustics, signals that have their energy in a small or narrow frequency band.
Bands smaller than one percent of the center frequency are considered narrow. Narrowband also refers to signal
processing equipment that processes bands smaller than one percent.
NATO Standardization Agreement. The record of an agreement among several or all of the member nations
to adopt like or similar military equipment, ammunition, supplies, and stores; and operational, logistic, and ad-
ministrative procedures. National acceptance of a NATO allied publication issued by the Military Agency for
Standardization may be recorded as a standardization agreement.
naval air training and operating procedures standardization (NATOPS). An organization and system
designed to determine, promulgate, and monitor standard flight doctrine and optimum operating procedures for
naval aircraft.
naval campaign. An operation or a connected series of operations conducted essentially by naval forces, in-
cluding all surface, subsurface, air, and amphibious troops, for the purpose of gaining, extending, or maintain-
ing control of the sea.
naval component commander (NCC). The service component commander responsible for Navy forces as-
signed to a joint operation. See “Service component commander” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www
.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
naval cooperation and guidance for shipping (NCAGS). The provision of military cooperation, guid-
ance, advice, assistance, and supervision to merchant shipping to enhance the safety of participating merchant
ships and to support military operations.
naval cryptology. Action taken to exploit and attack foreign communications and other electromagnetic sig-
nals, while protecting own, for the purposes of command and control warfare, electronic warfare, signals intel-
ligence, and signals security. Also see “cryptology” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
naval fleet auxiliary force. Ships provided by Military Sealift Command and dedicated to fleet operations
support.
naval special warfare (NSW). A designated naval warfare specialty that conducts operations generally ac-
cepted as being unconventional in nature and, in many cases, covert or clandestine in character. Also see DOD
Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
naval strategy. The use of naval forces (including naval aviation and Marine forces) to achieve naval objec-
tives determined by national strategy, with the overall objective of controlling the seas and denying to an en-
emy the use of those sea areas important to enemy operations.
naval vessel protection zone. A 500-yard regulated area of water surrounding large U.S. naval vessels that
is necessary to provide for their safety or security.
naval warfare. The employment in combat of all naval forces to establish, maintain, and exploit control of the
seas and to deny their use to an enemy. Naval warfare consists of a series of naval operations or campaigns.
navigation countermeasures (NAVCM). The detection and evaluation of enemy electronic aids to naviga-
tion and the use of jamming and deception to interfere with enemy use of such aids.
negative gradient. A water condition in which the temperature decreases with increases in depth.
neutralization radius. In mine warfare, the greatest horizontal distance from an exploding charge of specified
use at which a mine will be neutralized.
noise level (NL or LN). In underwater acoustics, the acoustic intensity of the total noise background (ambient
and self-noise) at the location of the receiving sensor.
noise-limited. That situation in which the maximum range of detection is limited by that part of background
noise and own-ship noise that is detected by the sonar.
nominal ocular hazard distance. The distance along the axis of the unobstructed beam from the laser to the
human eye beyond which the irradiance or radiant exposure during normal operation is not expected to exceed
the appropriate maximum permissable exposure.
noncombat expenditure allocation (NCEA). The total of all Navy and Marine Corps aviation nonnuclear
ordnance items authorized for expenditure for training, testing, operations, and other peacetime uses.
noncompliant boarding. In maritime interception operations, boarding in which there is no intelligence to in-
dicate a threat and any or all of the following conditions are met: a) suspect vessel fails to comply with direc-
tions of the on-scene commander, b) passive measures in place are intended to delay, impede, complicate,
and/or deter boarding of the suspect vessel and can be overcome by mechanical means, and/or c) passive resis-
tance measures in place are intended only to delay, impede, complicate, and/or deter search and seizure of sus-
pect vessel and can be overcome by mechanical means.
nonlethal technology (NLT). Synonymous with nonlethal weapons but also encompassing more advanced
technology that is not yet available for use by military forces.
nonmine mine-like bottom object. In mine warfare, an object, such as an outcropping, coral reef, or man-
made debris, that may give a mine-like response on minehunting sonars.
nonmine mine-like echo (NOME). In mine warfare, an echo from within the clutter on minehunting sonars
of a nonmine mine-like bottom object.
normal speed. The speed at which ships are to proceed if no signaled speed has been ordered. Also see opera-
tional speed, stationing speed.
no-strike object. Objects that are to be protected against impact or damage to some specified level of probabil-
ity during the weaponeering and targeting process. No-strike objects are identified by Unified Commander or
CJTF staffs.
not ready for issue (NRFI). In naval supply, a term applied to items that are not in a condition to satisfy the
purpose for which intended because of failure or damage.
NOTACK area. A stationary safe zone established by the submarine for protection against friendly attack while
other ASW forces engage submerged contact(s) within a joint action area or submarine generated search area.
nuclear material. Traditionally, uranium or plutonium used to produce a nuclear detonation via the fission or
fusion process.
oceanic front. The interface between two water masses having different temperature and/or salinity character-
istics. A tactically significant front will have a large effect on sound transmission and propagation loss.
offensive mine countermeasures. Actions taken to prevent an enemy from laying mines, including de-
struction of mine stockpiles and mining platforms or the placement of mines in friendly waters to thwart the en-
emy’s ability to deliver mines.
offensive mining. Operations in enemy waters designed to deny, disrupt, or destroy their shipping.
offload control officer (OCO). The Navy officer responsible to the Navy support element commander for the
offload of the maritime prepositioning ships squadron, the ship-to-shore movement, and the reception and con-
trol of lighterage on the beach.
offload preparation party (OPP). A temporary task organization of Navy and Marine maintenance, embarka-
tion, equipment operators, and cargo handling personnel deployed to the maritime prepositioning ship’s squad-
ron before or during its transit to the arrival and assembly area to prepare the ship’s offload systems and
embarked equipment for offload. Also see “off-load preparation party” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
offshore asset. For the conduct of inshore undersea warfare, a strategic, economic, or military asset located
seaward of the highwater mark that is essential to U.S. interests and policies. Also see “offshore assets” in
DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
open-loop sweep. In mine warfare, a magnetic sweep that uses seawater to complete the circuit.
operating mode. In ASW, a term used in reference to whether a submarine is submerged, snorkeling, or oper-
ating on the surface.
operating target (OPTAR). An estimate of the money required by an operating ship, staff, squadron, or other
unit to perform the task and function assigned.
operating tempo (OPTEMPO). Level of operations and training over time. Common measurements include
fleet hours, track hours, ship steaming days, and rounds of ammunition.
operational capability. Ability to perform a stated operational function. Description of the degree of capabil-
ity includes: a. identification of a function, b. indication of a degree or level of performance, and c. indication
of the probability that such performance would be forthcoming if called for on short notice.
operational function. Detailed statement of an action for which a unit is designed, organized, or required to
perform in the accomplishment of assigned or designed missions.
operational logistics. The art of applying the military resources available to operating forces to achieve na-
tional military objectives in a theater or area of operations or to facilitate the accomplishment of assigned mis-
sions in a military region, theater, or campaign. At the operational level of war, logistics involves fundamental
decisions concerning force deployment and sustainability functions in terms of identifying military require-
ments, establishing priorities, and determining allocations necessary to implement the commander’s concept.
operational profile. For information operations/information warfare, the collection of friendly indicators (vi-
sual, electronic, acoustic) or patterns associated with various naval operations that are observable to an adver-
sary or potential adversary or detectable by adversary or potential adversary systems.
operational speed. The highest speed at which a ship will be required to proceed during a particular operation
or during a stated period. Also see normal speed, stationing speed.
opposed boarding. In maritime interception operations, boarding in which any or all of the following condi-
tions are met: a) passive resistance measures in place are clearly intended to inflict harm on the boarding team
or create a dangerous environment, b) intelligence indicates a possible threat onboard the suspect vessel, or the
vessel is suspected of carrying terrorist contraband, and/or c) the suspect vessel has demonstrated intent to ac-
tively oppose the boarding or intelligence indicates such intent exists.
optical density (OD). A unit of measurement that designates a material’s ability to absorb energy. OD required
for the same laser source may vary depending on the distance and magnification of the optics that may be in
use. Unaided OD is calculated by assuming that the eye is at the laser output, while aided OD is calculated as-
suming all energy is focused into the 7-mm pupil.
optimum MCM speed. Speed over ground for a given set of conditions that provides the greatest sweeping or
hunting rate.
optimum sonar speed. The speed for an individual ship at which, over a period, it can achieve the maximum
swept area with its sonar in the prevailing environmental conditions.
ordnance logistics management (OLM). The total of all logistics functions applicable to the life cycle
management of the ordnance stockpile and its deployment in support of operating forces. Includes support ser-
vices provided to holders and users of ordnance assets.
otter. In naval mine warfare, a component of moored minesweeping gear used to laterally divert and maintain
proper depth of minesweeping equipment.
overpressure charges (OP). In mine warfare, the use of a predetermined amount of explosives that, when
detonated underwater at a known distance from a mine, creates a shock wave sufficient to neutralize it. The
shock wave can cause disruption of internal components, including mechanical battery damage, electrical cir-
cuit destruction, or sensor failure. Use of an overpressure charge will usually leave an essentially intact mine
case.
over-the-horizon targeting (OTHT). The location, evaluation, and reporting/transmission of data for a target
outside the active sensor horizon of a missile firing unit by means of a target reporting unit.
parallax. The angle at the target formed by the lines of sight from two different stations. Train or horizontal par-
allax is measured in the horizontal plane; elevation or vertical parallax in the vertical plane.
paravane. A towed body with planes and a cutter with a means of depth keeping that displaces itself laterally
and can be used as a ship protection measure against certain moored mines.
participating unit (PU). In tactical data link (TADIL) operations, a unit communicating directly on TADIL A
pool.
passive mine countermeasures. Steps taken to reduce the susceptibility of vessels to mine actuation and
explosion to include reduction of magnetic signature (degaussing), acoustic signature (Quiet Ship Bill), and
pressure signature (slow transit while in deep water).
passive sonar. 1. A method of detecting and tracking submerged or surface targets by listening to target radi-
ated sound. 2. A sonar system having only a hydrophone and capable of receiving signals but not transmitting
them.
patrol line. The designated path of operation for patrolling units joined end-to-end to permit a continuous range
of observations. The patrol line may be a straight line, a bent line, or a closed figure of any shape and with any
number of sides.
penetration point. 1. In mine warfare, a point through or over which the landing forces pierce the high-water
mark toward inland objectives. 2. In air defense, a control point used for reentry into the friendly air defense
network. It should be located beyond the intercept zone of the friendly SAM network.
periscope depth. The maximum depth at which a submarine can use its periscopes when they are fully
extended.
permissible cargo. In maritime interception operations, designated exceptions to a prohibited cargo category
such as medical supplies, food stuffs, and other humanitarian aid as determined by proper authority.
personnel tempo (PERSTEMPO). Percentage of time in a given annual period that an individual supports
operations and training away from his/her barracks, home base, or station for a period of time greater than 24
hours, to include unaccompanied duty assignments and temporary additional duty.
phased array radar. A radar antenna group using multiple radiating elements phase shifted to produce, trans-
mit, and receive scanning patterns.
picket. A unit stationed in a prescribed position with reference to a formation or disposition or in a geographic
position for a specific purpose such as air warning.
pinger. An active acoustic transmitter used in exercise mines to aid in location for recovery. Also used as a part
of underwater navigation systems.
ping-stealing. A method to measure the range of an emitting sonar source by determining the difference in time
between direct acoustic path and bottom reflected path of pings received.
planned maintenance system (PMS). Identifies planned maintenance to be performed on equipment, proce-
dures to be followed, and tools, parts, materials, and test equipment required to perform planned maintenance.
platform noise. In underwater acoustics, a combination of own-ship noise, circuit noise, and cable noise that
limits sonar sensitivity.
plot lock. The act of two or more units relating their plots together to eliminate the error between the plots
caused by errors in the estimated geographical positions of the unit.
point-of-aim correction. The correction applied to gun range and deflection to compensate for the vertical
and horizontal angles between the line of sight to the point of aim and the line from the gun to the desired point
of impact.
point target. A target of such small dimension that it requires the accurate placement of ordnance in order to
neutralize or destroy it.
port. A place at which ships may discharge or receive their cargoes. It includes any port accessible to ships on
the seacoast, navigable rivers, or inland waterways. The term “ports” should not be used in conjunction with air
facilities that are designated as aerial ports, airports, etc.
port safety. The safeguarding of vessel, harbors, ports, and waterfront facilities from accidents, negligence,
civil disturbance, and disasters.
position and intended movement (PIM). The reference position of the officer in tactical command at a
given time and a forecast of the course and speed expected to be made good over the ground. PIM is estab-
lished to assist the return of aircraft, to aid outlying surface units (pickets) in maintaining their stations, and for
rendezvous purposes.
positive gradient. A water condition in which the temperature increases with an increase in depth.
power projection. The application of offensive military force against an enemy at a chosen time and place.
Maritime power projection may be accomplished by amphibious operations, attack of targets ashore, or support
of sea control operations. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
prairie-masker. A system of belts on a ship’s hull (Masker) and holes in the forward and after face of each pro-
peller blade (Prairie) designed to reduce machinery-generated noise that radiates from the ship and interferes
with sonar performance.
precision engagement. The ability of joint forces to locate, surveil, discern, and track objectives or targets;
select, organize, and use the correct systems; generate desired effects; assess results; and reengage with deci-
sive speed and overwhelming operational tempo as required, throughout the full range of military operations.
precursor mine countermeasures operation. In mine warfare, operations in an area or channel using rela-
tively safe methods and techniques to reduce the risk to mine countermeasures platforms. Also see “precursor
sweeping” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
predicted sonar range (PSR). The ranges calculated and reported by a unit for its own sonar equipment and
transducer depths that could be employed under the prevailing environmental and operational conditions on the
basis usually of a 50 percent probability of detection.
pressure hull. The inner compartmented hull of a submarine designed to withstand sea pressure at great
depths.
prevention of mutual interference (PMI). Measures intended to prevent collision damage to friendly
submarines.
prevention of stripping equipment (PSE). In mine warfare, a booby trap within a mine serving as an
anti-tamper device that will fire the main battery or an auxiliary charge when an attempt is made to open the
mine’s chamber or any other component. Also see “antirecovery device” DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html in JP 1-02.
primary search and rescue facility. A specially trained and equipped air, surface, subsurface, or ground ele-
ment assigned to and maintained in constant readiness for the conduct of SAR operations.
principal warfare commander (PWC). Under the composite warfare commander (CWC) concept and subor-
dinate to the officer in tactical command and CWC are five principal warfare commanders: Air Defense Com-
mander (ADC), Antisubmarine Commander (ASWC), Information Warfare Commander (IWC), Strike Warfare
Commander (STWC), and Surface Warfare Commander (SUWC).
private voluntary organizations (PVO). Private, nonprofit humanitarian assistance organizations involved
in development and relief activities. Private voluntary organizations are normally United States-based. “Private
voluntary organization” is often used synonymously with the term “nongovernmental organizations.”
probability actuator. In mine warfare, a counter-countermeasures feature in the mine firing logic designed to
allow only a certain probability that a target or countermeasure signal will actuate the mine.
probability of detection. In underwater acoustics, the probability of detecting a given target, based on figure
of merit and propagation loss as a function of range. Usually figured for a 50 percent probability of detection.
processing grid. In information warfare, the personnel, systems, and applications that turn information into
knowledge to enable decision making. It is closely linked to, and in some cases embedded within, the sensor
grid, providing the critical data fusion that generates situational awareness. The processing grid produces and
updates the common operational picture of the battlespace.
program executive office (PEO). The office of a military or civilian official who has primary responsibility
for directing several acquisition category I programs and for assigned acquisition category II, III, and IV
programs.
program manager (PM). 1. A military or civilian official who is responsible for managing an acquisition pro-
gram. 2. A manager of a function (e.g., ordnance, public safety, security, etc.) in a region.
prohibited cargo. In maritime interception operations, specified cargo destined for import to or export from a
country designated by applicable prohibitions or resolutions.
propagation loss (PL). In underwater acoustics, the loss of sound intensity due to spreading and attenuation
during travel through a medium on a transmission path. The reduction in signal intensity (in dB) between a
point one yard from the sound source and the receiving sensor.
propulsion mode. Term used to describe the power plant configuration of a ship. For example, a ship with a
diesel engine connected to the propeller shah via a gear-reduction system is said to operate in the diesel-reduc-
tion mode.
proud mine. A ground mine that is not fully buried and thus protrudes from the seabed.
prudent limit of endurance. The time during which an aircraft can remain airborne and still retain a given
safety margin of fuel.
prudent limit of patrol. The time at which an aircraft must depart from its operational area in order to return to
its base and arrive there with a given safety margin (usually 20 percent) of fuel reserve for bad weather
diversions.
q-route survey. The process of searching and mapping all significant contacts along a preplanned shipping
route (channel). Also see “Q-route” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/in-
dex.html
quenching. The reduction in underwater sound transmission or reception resulting from absorption and scatter-
ing of sound.
query ship. In maritime interception operations, the unit making initial contact with and conducting the query
of a suspect vessel.
radar warning receiver. An on-board receiver providing information to the aircrew about radar energy strik-
ing the aircraft.
radiated noise. In underwater acoustics, the spectrum level of the sound energy radiated by a platform. Ma-
chinery and propeller noise dominate, but hydrodynamic noise is also a factor. It is normally expressed as a
sound level in dB/1 mPa referenced to a distance of one yard from the source in a 1-Hz bandwidth.
radioactive cloud. An all-inclusive term for the cloud of hot gases, smoke, dust, dirt, and debris from a
weapon and the environment.
radioactive contamination. Radioactive material in an undesirable location such as on structures, areas, ob-
jects, or personnel.
random antiterrorism measures (RAMs). Random multiple security measures that, when activated, serve
to disguise the actual security procedures in effect; RAMs deny the terrorist surveillance team the opportunity
to accurately predict security actions.
random-look mechanism. In mine warfare, a multi-look mine firing mechanism responding to two or more
looks in either direction and in any sequence.
rarefaction. In underwater acoustics, the condition in a sound wave where the pressure is lower than the aver-
age pressure exerted by the medium in which the wave propagates.
ray path. In underwater acoustics, a path perpendicular to the acoustic wavefront as the wave travels through
the water.
ray trace. A graphical determination of the path followed by a single ray of radiant energy as it travels through
media of varying index of refraction.
reach back. The ability to exploit resources, capabilities, expertise, etc., not physically located in the theater or
joint operations area when established. Also see “reachback” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
readiness analysis. The process of determining how changes in resources or environmental conditions can be
expected to affect the performance and capabilities of units. Readiness analysis leads to determination of readi-
ness standards, determination of readiness, and determination of resources needed to achieve desired levels of
readiness.
readiness evaluation. Description of capabilities possessed in comparison with capabilities required. Readi-
ness may be described in terms of: a) capabilities “possessed” or “nonpossessed” in relation to appropriate
readiness standards, b) probability of rendering a specified degree or level of performance, or c) general readi-
ness categories prescribed by the Joint Chiefs of Staff combat readiness reporting system.
real-time system. A system into which data flows and is processed at a rate that corresponds to the rate of
change of applicable information.
rear area security. The measures taken before, during, and/or after an enemy airborne attack, sabotage action,
infiltration, guerrilla action, and/or initiation of psychological or propaganda warfare to minimize the effects
thereof.
receiving sensitivity (RS). In underwater acoustics, a measure of the conversion factor from sound level in
the water to voltage level at the output of the sonar, expressed in units of dB//1 µPa/volt.
recognition differential (RD). In underwater acoustics, a particular value of signal-to-noise ratio for a given
processor that provides a 50 percent probability of target detection expressed in dB.
reconnaissance operation. In mine warfare, that portion of the exploratory-reconnaissance phase designed
to make rapid assessment of the limits and density of a minefield.
reconstitution. Those actions that commanders plan and implement to restore units to a desired level of com-
bat effectiveness commensurate with mission requirements and available resources. Reconstitution operations
include regeneration and reorganization.
recovery. In mine warfare, the removal of a mine as nearly intact as possible to permit further investigation for
intelligence and/or evaluation purposes. Also see removal and DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
redeployment. The transfer of a unit, an individual, or supplies deployed in one area to another area, or to an-
other location within the area, or to the zone of interior for the purpose of further employment. Also see DOD
Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
redistribution. The act of effecting transfer in control, utilization, or location of materiel between units or ac-
tivities within or among the military services or between the military services and other Federal agencies. Also
see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
reference level. In underwater sound, the standard level to which other sound levels can be related. Three ref-
erence levels commonly used are I dyne/cm2 (= 1 µbar), 0.0002 dyne/cm2, and 10-5dyne/cni2(= 1 µPa).
reflection loss. In underwater sound, the component of propagation loss resulting from imperfect reflections at
the ocean boundaries.
refraction. In underwater acoustics, the bending or curving of a sound ray that results when the ray passes from
a region of one sound speed to a region of a different speed. The amount of ray bending is dependent upon the
amount of difference between sound speeds, that is, the variation in temperature, salinity, and pressure of the
water.
regeneration. Rebuilding of a unit through large-scale replacement of personnel, equipment, and supplies, in-
cluding the reestablishment or replacement of essential command and control and the conduct of mission es-
sential training for the newly rebuilt unit. Also see reconstitution and reorganization.
regulated navigation area. A water area within a defined boundary for which regulations for vessels navigat-
ing within the area have been established.
release criteria. Criteria laid down by the officer in tactical command or delegated authority to be satisfied be-
fore weapon employment is authorized.
release delay. In mine warfare, a device fitted to a moored mine or sinker to delay the rising of the mine case,
either for a preset interval or until the influence of a passing target or sweep is received.
removal. In mine warfare, to take a mine out of an area where its detonation would present an unacceptable
circumstance.
render safe. As applied to weapons and ammunition, the changing from a state of readiness for initiation to a
safe condition.
reorganization. Action taken to shift internal resources within a degraded unit to increase its level of combat
effectiveness. Also see reconstitution and regeneration.
replenishment. In mine warfare, replacement or addition of mines to a minefield. Also known as reseeding.
required delivery date (RDD). The Julian calendar date when material is required by the requisitioner. Also
see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
requirements. The inputs to a mission, objective, or capability. They are subdividable into ever smaller and
simpler components until they cannot be divided any more without losing meaning.
rescue destroyer. A ship stationed in the vicinity of an aircraft carrier for the purpose of rescuing downed air-
craft personnel. It may have the additional function at night of acting as reference ship to indicate the horizon
for takeoff and the landing pattern for recovery operations. Formerly referred to as “plane guard.”
rescue helicopter. A helicopter stationed in the vicinity of a base, ashore or afloat, and used independently for
rescuing downed aircraft personnel.
rescue vessel. Surface craft possessing inherent seagoing qualities, long range, and reasonable speed engaged
in a SAR mission.
reverberation. In underwater acoustics, the combined sound of many small echoes returned to the hydrophone
due to scattering at the ocean surface (surface reverberation) and at the bottom (bottom reverberation), and/or
scattering in the water mass (volume reverberation). Examples of sources of reverberation are air bubbles and
suspended solid matter.
reverberation level (RL). In underwater sound, the ratio of the acoustic intensity, expressed in dB units, pro-
duced by pertinent scatters (volume, sea surface, or bottom) as a function of source level and range.
reverberation limited. In underwater acoustics, the condition in active sonar when the reverberation interfer-
ence level is higher than the background noise level. In this case, reverberation limited replaces total back-
ground noise in the active sonar equation.
right of approach and visit. The right under international law, of a warship, military aircraft, or other duly
authorized ship or aircraft to approach any vessel in international waters to verify its nationality. Unless the
vessel encountered is itself a warship or government vessel of another nation, it may be stopped, boarded, and
the ship’s documents examined, provided there is reasonable ground for suspecting that it is: a) engaged in pi-
racy, b) engaged in the slave trade, c) engaged in unauthorized broadcasting, d) without nationality, or e) of the
same nationality as the warship though flying a foreign flag or refusing to show its flag.
risk management (RM). The systematic process of identifying, assessing, and controlling risks arising from
operational factors and making decisions that weigh risks against mission benefits.
riverine patrol. A patrol by waterborne forces in waters measured from the low-water mark of the extreme
reaches of the river mouth to the limit of navigable headwaters.
run. The transit of a mine countermeasures (MCM) platform and MCM gear combination along a track. A run
produces a swept path and may cause more than one actuation in a mine. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
safe speed. In mine warfare, the speed at which a particular ship can proceed without actuating a given influ-
ence mine within the damage area at the depth under consideration.
salinity (S). The amount (in grams) of total dissolved salts present in one kilogram of water. This is equivalent
to parts per thousand (ppt or ‰).
scattering. In underwater acoustics, the reduction in sound intensity caused by reflection of energy away from
the wave propagation path.
scattering strength. In underwater acoustics, the ratio (in dB) of scattered sound from a surface or volume, re-
ferred to a distance of one yard, to the incident plane-wave intensity (energy per unit area or volume).
screen commander. An officer appointed by the officer in tactical command to exercise specific tactical con-
trol functions relating to the screen.
sea combat. The broad functional integration of ASW and surface warfare disciplines for sea control to the ex-
tent and duration necessary for mission fulfillment; other warfare commander and coordinator positions also
may be included as desired by the officer in tactical command/composite warfare commander.
sea combat commander (SCC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the officer delegated
some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for sea combat and granted the tactical
control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks; this is an optional position within the compos-
ite warfare commander structure.
sea current. In SAR operations, that current present in the open sea that is caused by factors other than local
winds.
sea state. A numerical or written representation of the roughness of the ocean surface.
sea state limited. In underwater acoustics, the condition when sea surface noise is the predominant source of
background noise.
seaport of debarkation (SPOD). The port at which cargo or personnel are discharged.
seaport of embarkation (SPOE). The port in a routing scheme from which cargo or personnel depart to a
seaport of debarkation. For unit and nonunit requirements, it may not coincide with the origin.
search and rescue (SAR) area. A general term for any geographically defined area of SAR responsibility.
Also a term used by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to describe its areas of international
SAR responsibility. ICAO uses the abbreviation SRR.
search and rescue coordinator (SC). The official (or agency in the case of regions) responsible for the
SAR organization within a given area and for the coordination of SAR operations within that area.
search and rescue incident. Any situation that requires notification and alerting of the SAR system and
which may require SAR operations.
search and rescue region. A region described in the national SAR plan in which a single Federal agency co-
ordinates all Federal SAR operations. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html
search and rescue stage. One of five stages of an SAR operational problem. a) awareness stage: that stage
when the SAR system becomes aware of an incident, b) initial action stage: that stage when preliminary action
is taken to alert SAR facilities and obtain amplifying information, c) planning stage: that stage when an effec-
tive plan of operations is developed, d) operations stage: that stage when SAR facilities proceed to the scene,
conduct search, rescue survivors, assist distressed craft, provide emergency care for survivors needing it, and
deliver injured to a suitable medical facility, and e) mission conclusion stage: that stage when SAR facilities re-
turn to their regular location and are prepared for another mission.
sea-surface noise. In underwater acoustics, noise caused by the action of surface waves. Sea-surface noise is
the predominant source of ambient noise in the open ocean.
security zone. In naval coastal warfare, an area of land, water, or land and water that is so designated by the
captain of the port or district commander for such time as is necessary to prevent damage or injury to any ves-
sels or waterfront facility; to safeguard ports, harbors, territories, or waters of the United States; or to secure the
observance of the rights and obligations of the United States.
seismic mine. A version of a passive acoustic mine that uses geophonic elements to detect acoustic energy em-
anating from a ship. A mine that responds to the acoustic energy transmitted through the ocean bottom rather
than through the water.
seizure. The taking into custody of a vessel, evidentiary items, and/or contraband.
self-noise. In underwater acoustics, any noise resulting from the presence or movement of own-ship, including
flow, mechanical, electrical, and electronic noises. It may enter the own-ship listening gear directly or by an
airborne, waterborne, or structuralborne path. Also see acoustic noise, ambient noise, background noise.
self-noise limited. In underwater acoustics, the condition when self-noise is the predominant source of back-
ground noise. This occurs when a ship or submarine is traveling faster than its breakpoint speed.
self-protective mine countermeasures (SPMCM). Tactical active and passive countermeasures taken by a
ship to reduce the levels of its emitted influence signatures. Examples are slow speed and use of degaussing
systems.
sensitive mine. A mine whose detecting circuit requires a relatively small magnitude of influence (as from a
slow, small, quiet, and degaussed vessel) to actuate it.
sensitivity. 1. In underwater acoustics, the measure of how well a device converts sound level to voltage level.
Measured in dB/µPa/volt. 2. In mine warfare, a classification of a mine’s likelihood to actuate by an influence
field; the higher the sensitivity, the smaller the magnitude of the influence required. It is a qualitative term and,
if a measurement is to be included, the specific term “actuation level” should be included.
sensor grid. In information warfare, the air, sea, ground, space, and cyberspace sensors, weapons sensors, sen-
sors employed by individual sailors and marines, and embedded logistics sensors that collect information.
service force. A naval task organization that performs missions for the logistic support of operations.
set. The direction toward which a current flows or the direction toward which an object moves under the influ-
ence of wind or current. Also see drift.
shadower. A maritime unit observing and (not necessarily continuously) maintaining contact with an object;
shadowing may be conducted overtly or covertly. Also see marker, shadowing.
shadowing. The observation of an enemy unit of force, usually as a sequel to surveillance or reconnaissance,
for the purpose of reporting its composition, location, movement, and any other relevant information. Also see
marker.
shadow zone. In underwater acoustics, a region in which very little sound energy penetrates, depending upon
the strength of the lower boundary of the surface duct. It is usually bounded by the lower boundary of the sur-
face duct and the limiting ray. There are two shadow zones: the sea surface, beneath which a shadow is cast by
the surface in the sound field of a shallow source, and the deep-sea bottom, which produces a shadow zone in
the upward-refracting water above it.
shallow water. 1. For underwater acoustics, normally considered as being less than 100 fathoms. Usually con-
sidered to be water of such depth that bottom topography affects surface waves. Only refers to the vertical ex-
tent from the ocean/atmosphere interface to the bottom of the ocean. Acoustically defined as water depth that
will not support convergence zone or deep sound propagation paths. 2. For the conduct of inshore undersea
warfare, the water mass extending from the mean high-water mark ashore to the 100-fathom curve seaward.
shelf break. The line across which there is a marked increase of slope at the outer margin of a continental shelf.
shipping risk area (SRA). A geographically defined portion of the naval cooperation and guidance for ship-
ping (NCAGS) area where an elevated risk to merchant shipping exists. Risks can include potentially hostile
acts, navigational restrictions that require closer management of shipping traffic, or naval force operations that
may conflict with routine safe passage. More than one SRA can be established within an NCAGS area. SRAs
are established by the task force commander.
short-term operation. In mine warfare, sweeping or hunting carried out when the time available before ships
pass through a mined area is insufficient to execute clearance.
signaled speed. The speed in knots at which the guide has been ordered to proceed.
signal excess (SE). In underwater acoustics, the difference in dB between received signal-to-noise ratio and
recognition differential. This is equivalent to the received signal level in dB in excess of that required for a
50-percent probability of detection.
signal-to-noise ratio. In underwater acoustics, the difference in decibels between the received signal and the
received noise. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
signature. A set of characteristics of a weapons system or platform useful for its detection, characterization,
tracking, and engagement. These characteristics are generally considered to involve radar cross section, infra-
red (IR) emissions, acoustic emissions, avionic subsystem emissions, visible and IR reflectivity and, in mine
warfare, pressure and magnetic influences.
single-ping, 50-percent probability-of-detection range. In underwater acoustics, that range at which the
signal excess becomes zero. The median detection range and the inner- and outer-range rings of the bot-
tom-bounce annulus and convergence-zone annulus are each determined by this probability-of-detection
criterion.
situational awareness (SA). Knowledge and understanding of the current situation that promotes timely, rel-
evant, and accurate assessment of friendly, enemy, and other operations within the battlespace in order to facili-
tate decision making. An informational perspective and skill.
skip bombing. A method of aerial bombing in which a bomb is released from such a low altitude that it slides
or glances along the surface of the water or ground and strikes the target at or above water level or ground
level.
skip-track sequence. In mine sweeping, a run sequence where distance between tracks swept is in multiples
of normal track spacing. One run is made on each track, and then the tracks are repeated in the same order until
all required runs per track have been accomplished.
slope enhancement. In underwater acoustics, a phenomenon where the intensity of a sound transmission is
altered as it encounters changing bottom slopes.
Snell’s Law. When a wave (light or sound) travels obliquely from one medium to another, the ratio of the sine
of the angle of incidence to the sine of the angle of refraction is the same as the ratio of the respective wave
speeds in the mediums and is a constant for two particular media.
snorkel. An extensible breather pipe that enables a submarine to operate on diesel engines while remaining
submerged.
SOFAR channel. In underwater acoustics, the deep sound channel with its axis at the bottom of the main
thermocline. The name originates from the WWII sound fixing and ranging (SOFAR) system designed for lo-
cating aviators downed at sea.
sonar background noise. In underwater acoustics, the total noise that interferes with signal reception.
sonar signal differential. In underwater acoustics, the signal-to-noise ratio (with noise measured in the sys-
tem bandwidth) required for a 50 percent Pd.
sonic layer depth (SLD). The depth of maximum near-surface sound speed above the deep sound channel.
sound channel. In underwater acoustics, that region in the water column where the sound speed first decreases
to a minimum value with depth and then increases in value, due to pressure. Above the depth of minimum
value, sound rays are bent downward; below the depth of minimum value, rays are bent upward, resulting in
the rays being trapped in this channel and permitting their detection at great ranges from the sound source.
sound channel axis. The depth of minimum sound speed within a sound channel. Abbreviated as DSCA for
the deep sound channel axis or SSCA for the secondary sound channel axis.
sound intensity. In underwater acoustics, a value equal to the square of the sound pressure divided by the im-
pedance of the water.
sound pressure level (SPL). In underwater acoustics, an indirect measurement of sound pressure based on a
logarithmic relationship. A range of one million sound pressures is represented by 120 units of sound pressure
level. The unit of measurement is the decibel.
sound speed. In underwater acoustics, the rate of travel at which sound energy moves through a medium, usu-
ally expressed in feet per second or meters per second.
sound speed excess (SSE). In underwater acoustics, the difference between the sound speed at the ocean
bottom and at the bottom of the surface layer.
sound speed gradient. In underwater acoustics, the rate of change of sound speed with depth in the ocean.
sound speed profile (SSP). In underwater acoustics, a graph of the variation of sound speed with water
depth.
sound velocity profile (SVP). In underwater acoustics, a graph of the variation of sound speed versus depth
of the ocean, taking into account the vertical distribution of temperature, salinity, and pressure. SVP is used for
predicting sonar conditions.
source level (active). In underwater acoustics, the total power output of an active transducer in dB/µPa at one
yard from the transducer.
source level (passive). In underwater acoustics, the amount of acoustic energy in dB radiated
omnidirectionally by the target at a particular frequency. Source level is generally expressed as the average
plane wave-radiated acoustic intensity in a 1-Hz band at a reference distance of one yard from the source and
relative to a reference intensity of 1 µPa.
southern oscillation. Multiyear variation in the surface temperature of the equatorial Pacific, which appears
to have far-reaching effects on worldwide rainfall and temperature patterns.
special agreement vessel. In maritime interception operations, a vessel covered by special agreements or
policies for which specific alternatives to visit and search are mandated. Passenger ferries and cruise ships may
be included in this category.
special interest vessel. In maritime law enforcement, certain vessels registered in nations with whom the
United States does not enjoy friendly and/or normal diplomatic relations and that are subject to restrictions re-
garding their entry into or activities in U.S. waters.
spectrum level. In underwater acoustics, the level of noise or a broadband signal in a frequency band 1-hertz
(one cycle per second) wide.
specular reflection. A mirror-like reflection of sound rays from the ocean surface or bottom, or a target, hav-
ing small irregularities compared with the wavelength of the incident sound.
speed made good. The average speed maintained over a known distance, taking into account all physical and
environmental factors (weather, tidal stream, current, and state of ship’s hull and machinery).
speed of advance (SOA). In naval usage, the speed expected to be made good over the ground. Also see
DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
spherical spreading. In underwater acoustics, a form of divergence governed by the inverse-square spreading
law where sound energy decreases 6 dB every time the distance from the source is doubled.
splash line. In SEAL team night operations, a point off the enemy beach where swimmers are put into the wa-
ter from rubber boats. It must be sufficiently distant to allow completion of this phase without detection.
spread. In naval gunnery, the range spread of a salvo is the distance between the round falling or bursting at the
greatest distance from the firing point and the round falling or bursting at the shortest distance, excluding wild
rounds. Similarly, the line spread is that which is at right angles to the trajectory.
spreading. In underwater acoustics, the phenomenon whereby transmitted sound intensity decreases in a con-
stant relationship to distance from the source.
spreading loss. The phenomenon whereby transmitted sound intensity decreases in a constant relation to dis-
tance from the sound source. The spreading laws relate sound intensity to a ratio of distance from the sound
source.
standard distance. Unless otherwise ordered, 500 yards between small ships in a line and 1,000 yards be-
tween a large ship and any other ship, large or small, in a line.
standoff ASW action. An action in which one or more ASW units attempt to engage a submarine outside
8,000 yards.
static haven. In submarine operations, an area or zone established at any time by a submarine operating author-
ity or officer in tactical command reserved exclusively for navigational use by a submarine. Also see “moving
submarine haven” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
static pressure. The portion of the total pressure in the ocean that increases with depth and does not vary with
time. (The pressure that would exist in the ocean if no sound waves were present.)
stationing speed. A speed slower than operational speed, specified for reasons of fuel economy, for use when
maneuvering or changing station. Also see normal speed, operational speed.
stave. A vertical group of individual hydrophone elements, electrically summed before being time delayed in
the sonar beam former.
stovepipe. A column of water made available to a submarine assigned to a deep stratum that allows it access to
the surface. Typically used in conjunction with prevention of mutual interference plans during exercises involv-
ing friendly and opposition force submarines.
strategic readiness requirement (SRR). As applicable to naval ordnance, the quantity of munitions needed
to arm the forces not committed to support combat operations in the assigned major theater war, as well as
those in the strategic reserve. This also includes any additional munitions requirements generated from treaties
or statutory obligations to allies.
stratification. In reference to naval ordnance, the application of assets to requirements to determine deficien-
cies, sufficiencies, or excesses.
strike operation. An operation designed to inflict damage on, seize, or destroy an objective.
strike package. An aggregation of one or more individual missions, including TACAIR and TLAM, combined
to meet macro-level strike warfare objectives.
strike planning. The generation of a plan for employing one or more strike and support assets against one or
more targets. Strike planning includes decisions on which weapon systems to employ and coordination of tim-
ing, support, and proximity between TLAM with TACAIR.
strike warfare (STW). Naval operations to destroy or neutralize enemy targets ashore, including attacks
against strategic or tactical targets such as manufacturing facilities and operating bases from which the enemy
is capable of conducting or supporting air, surface, or subsurface operations against friendly forces.
strike warfare commander (STWC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the officer dele-
gated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for strike warfare and granted the
tactical control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
subbottom. In underwater acoustics, the variation in density and structure of the ocean floor. With the penetra-
tion of the ocean floor by lower frequencies, density and structure of the layers of materials making up the
near-surface bottom region must be considered in acoustic range propagation.
submarine action area. A waterspace management area that contains one or more friendly submarines that
are the only units that may use ASW weapons within that area.
submarine advisory team (SAT). Personnel assigned to the submarine operations coordinating authority to
assist in the planning and execution of coordinated submarine operations.
submarine danger zone. The area within the appropriate limiting lines of approach.
submarine element coordinator (SEC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the principal ad-
visor to the submarine operations coordinating authority (SOCA) for submarine operations, normally serving as
the SOCA staff intermediary for required liaison with the submarine operating authority and submarines.
submarine-generated search area (SGSA). A temporary tactical operating area within a joint action area
that is established by a submarine commanding officer to allow other ASW forces to attack subsurface contacts
outside of the SGSA without further contact with the submarine. Also referred to as a “BULLPEN.”
submarine movement advisory authority. The authority who monitors movements of submarines and
ships operating variable depth sonar or towed arrays within his area of responsibility and advises the submarine
operating authorities and, if necessary, units concerned, of possible mutual interference.
submarine notice (SUBNOTE). A message originated by the submarine operating authority providing opera-
tional and movement instructions for submarines in peace and war, including transit and patrol area
information.
submarine operations coordinating authority (SOCA). A command to which tactical control of one or
more submarines has been delegated by the submarine operating authority.
submarine safety lane (SSL). A special case of submarine action area consisting of a set of lanes, either geo-
graphically defined or superimposed on a grid. They are activated either wholly or in part by the submarine op-
erating authority (SUBOPAUTH) and are used by the SUBOPAUTH to ensure the safety of submarines
transiting to and from assigned areas.
submerged approach area. That limited area in which the approach must be initiated by a submerged sub-
marine to reach a firing position in the torpedo danger zone. This area is limited by the ratio of speed of the
submarine to that of the target.
surface action group (SAG). A unit comprised of surface ships, which may be supported by fixed-wing air-
craft or helicopters, formed to counter a surface threat. Unless the officer in tactical command has designated a
SAG commander, the senior of the commanding officers is the SAG commander.
surfaced submarine. A submarine operating on the surface, i.e., sail and main deck awash or breaking the
surface.
surface duct (SD). In underwater acoustics, a zone below the sea surface where sound rays are refracted to-
ward the surface and then reflected. The rays alternately are refracted and reflected along the duct out to rela-
tively long distances from the sound source.
surface mine countermeasures (SMCM). Tactics and techniques that attend the employment of mine coun-
termeasures and coastal minehunters to detect, reduce the effectiveness of, or eliminate enemy mines through
mechanical and/or influence minesweeping devices. Explosive ordnance disposal and naval special clearance
teams and the marine mammal system are also integral components of this discipline.
surface reverberation. A term referring to scattered sound energy that is reflected back to the acoustic source
after striking the surface of the ocean.
surface warfare commander (SUWC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the officer dele-
gated some or all of the officer in tactical command’s detailed responsibilities for surface warfare and granted
the tactical control authority to accomplish the assigned missions and tasks.
surveillance area (SA). In maritime operations, aerospace, airspace, surface, and subsurface areas under the
systematic observation of own-force sensors to detect any object, event, or occurrence of possible military con-
cern. The surveillance area is a subset of the area of operations. See also area of operations; classification, iden-
tification, and engagement area; vital area.
survey. A procedure for determining the cause of gains, losses, or damage to Navy property, establishing per-
sonal responsibility (if any), and documenting necessary inventory adjustments to stock records. Also see sur-
vey as applied to CBR in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
survey operations. In mine warfare, operations to collect data on the mine countermeasures (MCM) environ-
ment. They are conducted in peacetime to ascertain the suitability of conditions for the MCM.
suspect vessel. In maritime interception operations, any critical contact of interest or any other vessel so des-
ignated by the combatant commander, joint force commander, naval component commander, joint force mari-
time component commander, or maritime interception commander.
sustained operations. As applicable to combat stress and significant personnel, continuous operations or
combat with opportunity for less than four per 24 hours sleep, which may be brief or fragmented.
sustained threat. In mine warfare, the ability of a minefield segment to present a continuous threat level for a
specified period of time despite the number of transitors or mine countermeasures efforts.
sweep resistance. In mine warfare, the counter-countermeasures quality of a mine that inhibits its actuation as
a result of enemy minesweeping efforts.
sweeping. In mine warfare, the act of a sweeper towing and operating a sweep for mines. Term also covers the
destruction of floating mines cut loose from their moorings.
tactical air support for maritime operations (TASMO). Organization, operational procedures, and com-
munications used in NATO for land- or carrier-based tactical air support of maritime offensive, reconnaissance,
and air defense operations.
tactical command (TACOM). The authority delegated to a commander to assign tasks to forces under their
command for the accomplishment of the mission assigned by higher authority. This term is used primarily in
maritime operations. It is narrower in scope than operational command but includes the authority to delegate or
retain tactical control.
tactical control (TACON). In maritime usage, the detailed and, usually, local direction and control of move-
ments or maneuvers necessary to accomplish missions or tasks assigned. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
tactical data system (TDS). An automated real-time computer system in which tactical data are entered for
storage, calculation, and/or display.
tactical evasion. The use of evasive actions to avoid enemy detection where such actions are based on infor-
mation concerning the capabilities and limitations of the enemy’s detection equipment.
tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel (TRAP). A mission performed by an assigned and briefed
aircrew for the specific purpose of the recovery of personnel, equipment, and/or aircraft when the tactical situa-
tion precludes search-and-rescue assets from responding and when survivors and their locations have been
confirmed.
tactical sonar range (TSR). A range based on the reported predicted sonar ranges. It may make allowances
for probable submarine depth, alertness of the operator, level of unit efficiency, etc.
takedown operation. In maritime interception operations, the act of inserting an armed boarding team on a
suspect vessel to gain control of key stations and force the suspect vessel to submit to search or diversion.
target. 1. An area, complex, installation, force, unit, or equipment identified or planned for capture, neutraliza-
tion, damage, or destruction by military forces. 2. To identify and select a specific entity or entities or a generic
capability, function, or behavior for military action.
target acquisition range. The minimum range in miles at which the designation order must be given to a gun
director system so the associated radar and fire control systems may acquire the target and obtain an accurate
solution in time to open fire at the maximum effective range.
target angle (TA). The angle between the target track and the line of sight (LOS), measured 0° to 360° from the
bow of the target to the LOS. Also see aspect and angle on the bow.
target designation. The selection of targets that is to be taken under fire and the transmission of the required
information for acquisition to the selected fire control station or stations. It may be classified by originating sta-
tion or by means used.
target folder. In TLAM operations, the set of data and remarks used as reference materials during targeting and
weaponeering. A defined group of text and imagery materials. Also see DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
target height. The vertical distance of a target above the horizontal plane through the point upon which the data
computer or rangekeeper bases a solution. Usually measured in feet.
target information package (TIP). A compilation of essential information about a specific target. The pack-
age includes enemy order of battle (air, land, and sea), target description, vulnerabilities, lines of communica-
tion, general and localized photography, and other all-source intelligence.
target location error (TLE). The difference between the measured target location and its true location on the
earth.
target resolution. The minimum difference in bearing, range, or elevation between two targets that will allow
obtaining data on either target.
target strength (TS). In underwater acoustics, a measure of the reflecting power of the target stated in dB. The
ratio of the target echo is measured one yard from the target to the sound incident on the target.
task designator. The number assigned to a task force, task group, or task element.
task fleet. A mobile command of ships and aircraft necessary for accomplishing specific major tasks that may
be of a continuing nature.
task group submarine area (TGSA). A waterspace management area designated by the submarine operating
authority in which one or more submarines are operating under the tactical command of the task group officer
in tactical command (OTC). Waterspace management and prevention of mutual interference requirements
within this area are the responsibility of the OTC or a specified subordinate commander.
task organization. The organization of forces for operational purposes to provide the necessary flexibility for
meeting changing operational requirements while retaining a clear indication of the chain of command.
task unit. A component of a task group organized by the commander of a task group or higher authority for ac-
complishing specific tasks.
team sweep. In mine warfare, two or more minesweepers linked together by a mechanical sweep. In influence
sweeping, the interaction of sweep fields is an essential feature of the technique in use (e.g., synchronization of
magnetic sweep fields).
terminal controller. Those agencies and/or individuals who exercise terminal control of close air support mis-
sions. This control may include, but is not limited to, assisting the pilot in acquisition of the target and directing
the flight routing of the aircraft relative to target attack.
theater mission library (TML). The library of Tomahawk missions in an area of responsibility (AOR) that has
been approved for distribution by the unified commander. The TML may include locally planned missions that
have not been planned or distributed by a cruise missile support activity as well as master mission library mis-
sions. Each TML is managed and distributed by the theater Tomahawk database manager for the AOR.
thermocline. A temperature gradient in a layer of seawater where the temperature decreases continuously with
depth. Usually the gradient is greater than 2.7° F per 165 feet (1.5° C per 50 meters) of depth.
threat probability. In mine warfare, the probability that a target ship passing once through a minefield will ex-
plode at least one mine and be damaged to a specified level.
time charter (TC). In Military Sealift Command operations, under this type of contractual agreement that may
last from a few weeks to years, the ship owner is responsible for providing the crew, managing the ship, and for
paying all operational costs, excluding fuel, port charges, and canal tolls. Also see industry-owned, time char-
tered ships, and industry-owned, bareboat-chartered ships.
TLAM strike coordinator (TSC). Under the composite warfare commander concept, the officer in tactical
command’s designated agent who is responsible for all TLAM strike planning, coordination, and reporting in a
strike or series of strikes.
Tomahawk executive agent (TEA). The commander designated by the unified commander to assume the re-
sponsibility for all Tomahawk operations in the theater.
Tomahawk strike coordinator (TSC). The designated agent who is responsible for all TLAM strike plan-
ning, coordination, and reporting in a strike or series of strikes.
topographic noise stripping (TNS). In underwater acoustics, ambient noise from distant shipping (>1 con-
vergence zone (CZ) range away) is attenuated, or stripped, by interaction with the ocean bottom, while the
acoustic signal of interest is received via the submerged CZ propagation path. TNS may be exploited in areas
where the distant shipping noise is bottom-limited, but a below-layer source is not bottom-limited, resulting in
an increased signal-to-noise ratio.
topographic shading. The disruption of convergence zone (CZ) or deep sound channel propagation by ocean
bottom features such as seamounts, guyots, ridges, or islands. This disruption causes large shadow zones.
Depth excess is destroyed for CZ propagation when a source is one-half the CZ range from such a bottom
feature.
torpedo danger area (TDA). The area extending beyond the furthest-on circle for an arbitrarily assessed dis-
tance of 8,000 yards.
torpedo danger zone (TDZ). An area that the submarine must enter in order to be within maximum effective
torpedo firing range.
total delivery error (TDE). In regard to precision-guided munitions, the complex combination of the target lo-
cation and weapon navigation errors that indicates the closeness of the probable weapon impact to the true lo-
cation of the target.
total risk. The sum of identified risk and unidentified risk. It is accepted by the appropriate decision-maker be-
cause further efforts at risk control are not justified by the perceived gain.
traffic ships. As applied to mine warfare, the normal kinds and numbers of ships using a given area, usually
considered major cargo and military ships.
transducer. A device for converting electrical energy to underwater sound energy or vice versa. When sound
energy received through the water is converted to electrical energy, the device is termed a hydrophone; when
electrical energy is converted to sound energy and transmitted into the water, the device is termed a sonar pro-
jector or an echo sounder.
transfer. In maneuvering, the distance gained by a ship at right angles to the original course when turning. The
tactical diameter is the transfer for a turn of 180°.
transient. In underwater acoustics, a target signal of varying duration, such as the cycling of valves or planes.
May not be detected on narrowband systems due to integration period.
transmission loss (TL). In underwater acoustics, the reduction in signal intensity (in dB) between a point one
yard from the sound source and the receiving sensor. Graphically depicted as a function of range on a com-
puter-generated propagation loss curve.
turbidity current. Relative to underwater acoustics, a highly turbid, relatively dense current carrying large
quantities of clay, silt, and sand in suspension that flows down a submarine slope through less dense water.
turnaround time. That period beginning upon conclusion of one deployment and ending upon commencement
of the next deployment.
type organization. The organization of forces afloat by types of ships and aircraft for administrative purposes
as distinguished from tactical purposes.
unacceptable risk. The risk that cannot be tolerated and must be eliminated or controlled.
uncertainty phase. See “search and rescue incident classification” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
uncooperative boarding. Occurs when a contact of interest’s master and crew disregard hailing and proceed
on a course demonstrating intent to deny cooperative boarding.
uncountered field. A minefield against which the enemy takes no mine countermeasure actions.
underwater electric potential (UEP). Alternating and static electric fields caused by electric current flowing
through dissimilar metals in a ship’s underwater hull.
underwater mine countermeasures (UMCM). The tactics and techniques that attend the employment of
explosive ordnance disposal, naval special clearance team, and/or marine mammal system to perform minefield
reconnaissance and/or acquire, reacquire, identify, neutralize, dispose of, render-safe, and exploit moored and
ground mines planted within the depth capability of existing underwater breathing apparatus.
unidentified risk. The risk that has not been identified. It is unknown or immeasurable.
upslope enhancement. Acoustic energy from a source in deep water changes from a convergence zone or
sound channel path to a bottom bounce path as the bottom shoals and is concentrated up the slope to a receiver
in shallow water. Also known as the inverse megaphone effect.
urgent attack. In ASW, an attack delivered with maximum rapidity against a submarine located in a position
such that it is considered an immediate threat. Speed of reaction is more vital than accuracy. Also see deliber-
ate attack.
variable depth sonar (VDS). A sonar whose transducer is towed beneath its parent ship with the object of im-
proving sonar detection ranges by permitting the sonar to operate beneath a layer.
vertex depth. In underwater acoustics, the depth in the water at which a refracted sound ray becomes
horizontal.
vertex sound speed. In underwater acoustics, the speed at which a refracted sound ray becomes horizontal.
vertical component. In mine warfare, that component part of the total magnetic field in the vertical plane.
vertical launch system (VLS). A system on surface ships that provides stowage, support, and launch capabil-
ities for Tomahawk, standard missiles, and vertical launch antisubmarine rockets.
vertical onboard delivery (VOD). Logistics movement of high-priority passengers/mail/cargo to/from avia-
tion and air-capable ships.
visit, board, search and seizure. Procedures by which U.S. forces conduct maritime interception operations
in order to determine the true character of vessels, cargo, and passengers.
vital area (VA). In maritime operations, the designated zone surrounding a mission-essential unit(s), force(s),
installation(s), or location(s) to be defended by the force. The outer limit of the vital area is normally equal to
or greater than the threat weapons release range of opposition forces. Multiple vital areas may be established
within a classification, identification, and engagement area. See also area of operations; surveillance area; and
classification, identification, and engagement area.
vital deficiency. A deficiency that affects the operational ability of a unit to such an extent that it is in no condi-
tion to perform the mission. This deficiency might be one of material or personnel and is beyond the capacity
of the unit to remedy without outside assistance.
voyage charter (VC). Under the terms of a voyage charter, the owner remains completely responsible for the
operation of (and the associated costs of) the ship — including fuel, port, and canal charges. The charter party
provides for the ship to make a transit between a specific seaport of embarkation and a specific seaport of
debarkation.
walking. In mine warfare, a contact that is not geographically stationary as plotted on the navigation display.
Used as an indication that the sonar is tracking biological life-forms (school of fish, whales, etc.).
war reserve munitions requirement (WRMR). The sum of combat requirement, strategic readiness require-
ment, and current operation/force protection requirement.
warm core eddy. Large warm water mass that has broken off from its parent water mass into a different water
mass yet retains its specific properties for long periods (6 to 9 months) before being assimilated.
washover effect. Wave action that grounds out the sonobuoy antenna. Normally becomes apparent at sea state
4 and can be heard aurally and observed on radio frequency meters.
water clearance authority (WCA). An activity that controls and monitors the flow of cargo into ocean termi-
nals. Also see “Ocean Cargo Clearance Authority” in DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02). http://www.dtic.mil/doc-
trine/jel/doddict/index.html.
waterfront facility. All piers, wharves, docks, and similar structures to which vessels may be secured; areas of
land, water, or land and water under and in immediate proximity to them; buildings on such structures or con-
tiguous to them; and equipment or materials on such structures or in such buildings.
waterside security. Measures or actions taken to prevent or guard against the use of a waterside approach to a
waterfront facility or vessel by persons or vessels intent on theft, sabotage, terrorism, and/or belligerent acts.
waterspace management (WSM). The allocation of surface and underwater spaces into areas and the imple-
mentation of agreed procedures to permit the coordination of assets. The intention is to prevent mutual interfer-
ence between submarines or between submarines and other assets, while enabling optimum use to be made of
all undersea warfare assets involved.
wave length, sound. In underwater acoustics, the distance between corresponding points of adjacent sound
waves; measurement is determined by the ratio of speed to frequency.
waypoint. In TLAM operations, 1. An engagement planner-designated location through which the missile is di-
rected to fly during the overwater phase en route to the first preplanned waypoint. Overwater waypoints are op-
tional and flexible. 2. A mission planner-designated location through which the missile is directed to fly during
the overland phase en route to the target. Overland waypoints are integral action points in the mission and can-
not be changed without replanning the mission. Also see “way point” DOD Dictionary (JP 1-02).
http://www.dtic.mil/doctrine/jel/doddict/index.html
weapon control. The technique of delivering effective fire on a selected target. Effective fire control is accom-
plished in the following sequence of operations: search, target indication, target designation, target acquisition,
tracking, predicting, weapon laying, weapon firing, and spotting. It is classified by system or by method of
directing.
weapon navigation error (WNE). Relative to GPS and precision-guided munitions, the difference between
the measured weapon location and its true location with respect to the Earth.
weaponeering. The process of determining the quantity of a specific type of lethal or nonlethal weapon re-
quired to achieve a specific level of damage to a given target, considering target vulnerability, weapon effect,
munitions delivery accuracy, damage criteria, PFC, and weapon reliability.
weapons posture (WP). A method to configure gun/launcher, weapons direction systems/fire control, com-
mand-and-decision systems, ordnance, and weapons release authority into three broad categories designed to
provide common configuration baselines to reduce the possibility of unintended or accidental weapons release
and launch. WPs impose mechanical, electrical, and doctrinal safeguards to prevent weapon release unless au-
thorized by competent authority; heighten awareness of combat systems personnel to the possibility of inadver-
tent weapon launches; and provide operational commanders a means to direct weapon systems readiness of the
forces they command by assigning the appropriate WP for each weapon system for the tactical situation.
zero time. 1. In executing an antisubmarine search, the time that the center of the search line passes through the
datum. 2. The time a zigzag plan commences, always on the hour. The formation can begin execution at any
time but will steer the course shown on the plan for that particular time relative to zero time.
zigzag. In ASW, straight-line variations from the base course performed in accordance with a set plan.
INTENTIONALLY BLANK
CHAPTER 3
A/A air-to-air
A/C aircraft
A/G air-to-ground
A/J antijam
A/N alphanumeric
A/S airspeed/air-to-surface
AAA antiaircraft artillery; arrival and assembly area; assign alternate area; advance acous-
tic analyst
AAR aircraft accident report; air-to-air refueling; after action report; after action review
AC air conditioning; air controller; air corridor; airspace controller; antichaff (mode); at-
tack control; automatic correlation
ACA airspace control authority; airlift clearance authority; appropriate command author-
ity; air control authority
ACCS advanced communications control system; automated command and control system
ACE airborne command element; air combat element; aviation combat element
ACF alternate command facility; air contingency force; automatic contact follower/
following
ACFT aircraft
ACO acoustic console operator; acquisition control order; action cut out; administrative
contracting officer; air contact officer; air control officer; air control order; airspace
control officer; airspace control order
ACP air control point; aircraft communications procedures; airspace control plan; allied
communication publication; armament control panel; assign common pool; audio
converter processor; auto correlation processor
ACS AEGIS combat system; afloat correlation system; amphibious command ship; auto-
matic channel select; automatic control system; auxiliary crane ship
ACU antenna control unit; automatic control unit; auxiliary control unit; air control unit;
administrative control unit; aircraft control unit
AD actual depth; aided detect/detection; air defense; airspace deconfliction; area defense;
attack director; automatic detect; automatic detection; destroyer tender
ADA air defense alert; auxiliary data area; air defense artillery
ADC air detection controller; acoustic decoy cartridge; acoustic device countermeasure;
air defense commander
ADE aerial delivery equipment; air defense element; aircraft data entry; automatic data
entry
ADL advanced data link; airborne data link; armament data line
ADM acoustic database manager; advanced development model; atomic demolition muni-
tion; automatic detection mark
ADP acoustic data processor; air defense plan; automatic data processing; autopilot data
processor
ADS active dipping sonar; advanced deep-dive system; advanced deployable system;
AEGIS display system; aerial delivery system; air(space) deconfliction system; air-
craft decontamination station; air defense ship; air defense system
ADT air data terminal; automated detection and tracking; automatic detection and tracking
ADU air defense unit; above-deck unit; auxiliary display unit; airborne data unit
AE ammunition ship; acoustic emission; active emission; assault echelon; assumed en-
emy; auxiliary exhaust steam
AFC airframe change; area frequency coordinator; assault force commander; automatic
frequency control
AGM air-to-ground missile; missile range instrumentation ship; major communications re-
lay ship
AH hospital ship
AI airborne interceptor; airborne intercept; air interdiction; area of interest; air intelli-
gence; air intelligence (officer); amplitude input; attitude indicator
AIC air intercept control; air intercept controller, airspace information center; airborne in-
terceptor control
AIR air inflatable retarder; aircraft inventory record; acoustic intercept receiver
AJ auto-jam(ming)
AK cargo ship
ALC automatic level control; automatic light control; air logistics coordinator
AMCCS Marine air command and control system; Advanced Modular Command and Control
System
AMR aircraft mishap report; associated measurement report; auxiliary machinery room
ANT antenna
AO air officer; approach officer; area of operations; action officer; aerial observer; oiler
AOB advanced operations base; air order of battle; angle of bank; angle on the bow; avia-
tion operations branch
AOC air operations center; area operational commander; automatic overload control
AOP air operations plan; airborne observation post; airborne operational program; area of
probability; average output power; avionics operational program
APS acoustic prediction system; adaptive processor sonar; adaptive processor system; ad-
vanced planning system; afloat planning system (TLAM); allocation processor; au-
tomated planning system; afloat prepositioning ship
APT all-purpose tracker; armor piercing tracer; advanced phase training; automatic pic-
ture transmission
APU auxiliary printer unit; auxiliary propulsion unit; auxiliary power unit
ARC air reporting control; airborne radio control; cable repairing ship
ARL airborne reconnaissance low; aspect ratio limiting; assault rocket launcher
ARR allowance requirements register; analysis receiver ready; antenna rotation rate
ARS acute radiation syndrome; air refueling store; auto ready spare; automatic receive sys-
tem; assault rocket launcher; salvage ship
ASA accelerated standalone; analog signature analysis; auxiliary spectral analysis; auxil-
iary spectrum analyzer
ASC acoustic support console; air support control; air support coordinator
ASDS advanced sea-air-land (SEAL) delivery system; air situation display system
ASE aircraft survivability equipment; air support element; aviation support equipment
ASL above sea level; allowable supply list; archipelagic sea lane
ASR air surveillance radar; assault support request; automatic send/receive; submarine
rescue ship; airborne search & reconnaissance; airborne search radar; airport sur-
veillance radar; armed surface reconnaissance
ATA actual time of arrival; airport traffic area; automatic threat alert; automatic track asso-
ciation; auxiliary ocean tug
ATC air test cap; air track coordinator; air traffic control; air transportable clinic
ATD actual time of departure; advanced technology demonstration; advanced torpedo de-
coy; automatic target detection; active track display; automatic target detector
ATE active track evaluation; airborne terminal equipment; automatic test equipment
ATF automatic tracking feature; automatic target following; fleet ocean tug; amphibious
task force
ATG afloat training group; amphibious task group; antenna transceiver group
ATM air tasking message; air tracker mode; array termination module; asynchronous trans-
fer mode; automated track management; automatic target management
ATO antiterrorism officer; air tasking order; airborne tactical officer; assisted takeoff
(system)
ATS acoustic tracking station; acoustic track(ing) supervisor; air traffic service; air traffic
supervisor; ammunition tracking system; advanced tactical surveillance; salvage
and rescue ship
AUX auxiliary
AV aviation
AWS Amphibious Warfare School; AEGIS weapon system; air warfare section; air weather
service; analysis workstation
B/N bombardier/navigator
B/U backup
BA beam amplitude; bleed air; bridge demolition, abutment (abbreviation used on an en-
gineer obstacle overlay); relative target bearing
BAR barrier
BARO barometric
BCST broadcast
BDU battle dress uniform; battle dress utility; below-deck unit; bomb dummy unit; basic
display unit
BKGD background
BL band level; baseline length; bottom loss; bracketing ladder; broadcast list
BLK block
BN barrage noise
BSA beach support area; brigade support area; body surface area; bow/stern algorithm
BTB bridge-to-bridge
BTRY battery
BU backup; builder
BZ beach zone
C/B chemical/biological
C2W C&R command and control warfare coordination and reporting (net)
CAC combined arms center (U.S.A.); control air; computer-aided classification; continu-
ous aim correction
CAD catapult steam drain; collective address designator; computer automated design;
computer-aided detection; cartridge-actuated device
CAG carrier air wing commander; civil affairs group; collective address group
CAP combat air patrol; computer access panel; crisis action planning
CAPS channel access protocols; combat airdrop planning software; commander’s analysis
and planning system; consolidated aerial port system
CART cargo afloat rig team; consolidated ASW readiness test; controlled alert response ter-
minal; command assessment of readiness and training
CAS calibrated airspeed; casualty; close air support; collaboration at sea; combined an-
tenna system; computer-aided search
CAT catapult; clear air turbulance; combined acceptance trials (ships); communications
assist team; container anchorage terminal; command action team
CBU cluster bomb unit; conference bridge unit; construction battalion unit; color burst unit
CCA carrier-controlled approach; carrier control area; circuit card assembly; contamina-
tion control area; craft collection area; LCAC control area
CCC command and control center; command, control, and communications; communica-
tions center computer; computer complex casualty; critical control circuit
CCO ceiling cutout; central control officer; circuit control officer; combat cargo officer
CCP combined command post; casualty collection point; casualty control panel; consoli-
dation/containerization point; consolidated cryptologic program; converter control
processor; countermeasure control panel; craft control point; cushion (LCAC) con-
trol point
CCS central control station; constellation control station; constrained course and speed;
control and communication subsystem; cockpit control system; combat control sys-
tem; command and control system
CCW counterclockwise
CD civil defense; collateral damage; chart datum; command display; command destruct;
counterdetection; counterdrug; critical depth; compact disk
CDC common display console; computer display console; combat direction center
CDE central data exchange; chemical defense equipment; common desktop environment
CDP computer data processor; control display processor; craft departure point; landing
craft air cushion (LCAC) departure point; cumulative detection probability; concept
development plan
CDR cargo drop reel; control display repeater; counterdetection range; critical design
review
CDS combat direction system; control display subsystem; command destruct system; con-
ventional dive system
CDU consolidated diver unit; control display unit; cockpit display unit
CE circular error; civil engineer; clutter envelope; command element; construction engi-
neer; contact evaluation; cooperative engagement
CEP combat entry point; contact evaluation plot; cooperative engagement processor; cir-
cular error probable
CERT civil engineer reconnaissance team; computer emergency response team; certifica-
tion/certified; combined environmental reliability test(ing); crew escape and rescue
technique
CFR Code of Federal Regulations; crash, fire, and rescue; cylinder firing rate
CFS category function switch; command function select; community and family support;
continuous full scan; critical failure summary
CHEM chemical
CIP coast-in point; critical intelligence parameter(s); class improvement plan; component
improvement program
CIV civilian
CLASS classification
CLF combat logistics force; commander, landing force; comparative LOFAR fix(ing)
CLRNC clearance
CM countermeasures
CMCC computer monitor and control console; classified material control center
CMP class maintenance plan; conversion master plan; cruise missile project; communica-
tions message processor
CNI communication-navigation-identification
CO conscientious objection
COD carrier onboard delivery; collect on delivery; combat operations division; correction
of deficiency
COMDT commandant
COMMS communications
CONV convoy
CP casualty panel; casualty power; casualty procedures; change proposal; coded pulse;
command post; communications processor; computed position; computer program-
mer; concrete piercing; control point; counter proliferation
CPHD copperhead
CPU central processing unit; chemical protective undergarment; computer processing unit
CQ carrier qualification
CRC combat reconnaissance crew; control and reporting center; crisis response cell;
cryptologic resource coordinator; cyclic redundancy check
CRM cabinet resource manager; crew resource management; corrosion related magnetic
CRT cathode ray tube; combat response team; combat rated thrust
CSA close support area; combat systems assessment; combat support area
CSC combat system coordinator; computer set control; computer software component;
combat stress control
CSD chemical-support division; civil support detachment; combat system doctrine; com-
bat system detection
CSES combat system equipment space; critical safe enable switch; canister/safe/enable
switch
CSG carrier strike group; command signal generator; cryptologic support group
CSM chemical surety material; combat system management (workstation); combat system
manager
CSS central security service; combat service support; communications subsystem; coordi-
nator surface search; coastal systems station; combat system services; communica-
tions security system; contingency support study
CSSE civil engineering support equipment; combat service support element; combat sys-
tem support equipment
CSV countersurveillance
CT counterterrorist
CTD classify track display; common tactical dataset; conductivity, temperature, depth;
central target director
CTP common tactical picture; comparative test plan; continuing training plan; coordinated
test plan
CTS central track stores; control time slot; course-to-steer; communications tracking sys-
tem; current time sensing
CTTG countertargeting
D/E depression/elevation
DAS deep air support; defensive avionics system; direct air support
DCU data conversion unit; data converter unit; debark control unit; display control unit
DD deck drain (without closure device); destroyer; diesel direct; differential Doppler; di-
rect deployment
DDC data display console; deck decompression chamber; detection data converter; digital
data converter
DDS data display subsystem; data distribution subsystem; data distribution system; digital
data set; digital data storage; distributed data system; dry deck shelter
DEMOD demodulation
DI directivity index
DIV division
DLA data link address; deck launched alert; Defense Logistics Agency; designated landing
area
DOT deep ocean transponder; desert operation trailer; detection opportunity time
DP direct path
DR dead reckoning; decision range; destruct range; diesel reduction; designated overhaul
point
DSD data sharing device; deep submergence device; digital sharing devices; dynamic situ-
ation display
DTM detector tracker monitor; digital target materials; digital terrain matrix
DZ drop zone
ECG electronic combat group; emission control gate; environment control gate; equal an-
gle coverage; exercise controller guide
ECON economical
EFF effectiveness
EMATT expendable mobile acoustic training target; expendable mobile USW training target;
expendable mobile ASW training target
EO-IR electro-optical-infrared
ERO enable run offset; engine running on/offload; engineered refueling overhauls; equip-
ment repair order
ERS emergency recovery system; engine room supervisor; emergency relocation site
ESS electronic system supervisor; expeditionary support squadron; explosive safety sur-
vey; external sound speed
ETI early transient incapacitation; ELINT technical information; emitter technical infor-
mation; estimated time of intercept
ETS emergency throttle system; engineering technical services; engineering time standards
EXER exercise
EXPL explosive
EXT exterior
FAD fighter air director; fleet air defense; force activity designator; force air defense;
fighter air direction
FAR false alarm rate; federal acquisition regulation; federal aviation regulation
FAST fleet acoustic silencing test; fleet air superiority training; fleet antiterrorism security
team; forward area support terminal; forward area surgical team
FAX facsimile
FC field change; fire control; force coordinator; frequency compatibility; field circular;
final coordination; floating causeway; floating craft; force commander
FCE fire control element; fire control executive; forward command element
FDBK feedback
FDL fault detection and localization; forward area air defense data link; forward deploy-
able laboratory; fast deployment logistics
FDO fighter duty officer; flexible deterrent option; flight deck officer
FDP fighter direction post; food distribution point; frequency domain processor
FDU file data update; fire direction unit; fire director unit
FEP final evaluation period; fleet satellite (FLTSAT) extremely high frequency (EHF)
package
FH fleet hospital
FIP fleet improvement program; fleet indoctrination program; fleet introduction program
FLG flagship
FLO/FLO float-on/float-off
FM force module
FOB forward operating base; forward operations base; friendly order of battle
FORM formation
FREQ frequency
FSB fire support base; forward staging base; forward support base; forward support battalion
FSO fire support officer; flight safety officer; foreign service officer; force security officer
(MPF operations); fleet support operations
FSS fast sealift ships; fire support station; flight service station; fast swept spat
FT force track
FU fire unit
GATS general access time slots; global positioning system aided targeting system
GE ground element
GEN generator
G/F go-fasts
GI government issue
GND ground
GS ground speed
GT gun target
HCS helicopter combat support (Navy); helicopter control station; helicopter coordination
section; helicopter control ship
HD harbor defense
HF high frequency
HK handkey; hardkill
HOJ home-on-jam
HOSTAC helicopter operations from ships other than aircraft carriers (U.S.N. publication)
HOT home-on-target
HR half round
HT homing transponder
HT/SZ height/size
HUK hunter/killer
HW hazardous waste
IC interim change
ID identification
INC incendiary
INS Immigration and Naturalization Service; inertial navigation system; insert code
IP interface processor
IS initial search
ISO in support of
IT information technologies
ITT interrogator/translator
JAM jamming
J/S jamming-to-signal
LA lead agent
LAD latest arrival date; local air defense; latest arrival date at port of debarkation
LCC amphibious command ship; land component commander; launch control center; ligh-
terage control center; link communications circuit; logistics component command
LD line of departure
LE linear error
LF low frequency
LHA amphibious assault ship (general purpose); amphibious assault ship (multipurpose);
landing helicopter assault
LHC logistics head coordinator; logistic helicopter coordinator; left-hand circular; local
harbor commander
LI/LO lock-in/lock-out
LN noise level
LO low observable
LO/LI lock-out/lock-in
LO/LO lift-on/lift-off
LO/RO lift-on/roll-off
LOG logistics
LST landing ship, tank; laser spot tracker; tank landing ship
LV launcher vehicle
LZ landing zone
M/S minesweeping
MAINT maintenance
MAT medical analysis tool; mine assembly team; maintenance augmentation team
MAX maximum
MC mission commander
MDS message dissemination subsystem; mission design series; maintenance data system;
mission distribution system
MERCO merchant ship movement and control reporting system; merchant ship control
MGMT management
MGR manager
ML mixed layer
MM multinational manual
MN Mach number
MOD modification
MP mission package
MPA maritime patrol aircraft; mission and payload assessment; mission planning agent
MPDS message processing data system; message processing distribution system (shipboard)
MS master station
MST mobile support team; Marine expeditionary force (MEF) weather support team; mis-
sion support team; maintenance support team
MTT magnetic tape transport; maritime target track; mobile training team
MUX multiplex
MW mine warfare
NAESU naval aviation electronics service unit; naval aviation engineering service unit
NB narrowband
NCC naval component commander; Navy component command; network control center;
North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Command Center
NET network
NEU neutral
NL noise level
NOS network operating system; normal operating state; night observation system
NPT nonparticipant
NSE national support element; Navy support element; naval support element
O/M oceanography/meteorology
O/S over-the-side
OD optical density
OG operational guide
OH operational handbook
OMNI omnidirectional
OPS operations
ORD ordnance
ORDN ordnance
OSS ocean surveillance system; operations support system; optical sighting system
OTO operator-to-operator
P/M/C passengers/mail/cargo
P/S port/starboard
PCS permanent change of station; portable control station; position, course, and speed;
primary control ship
PDF processed directional transmission; point detonating fuze; principal direction of fire
PDR precision data recorder; predicted detection range; periscope depth range
PG patrol gunboat
PH probability of a hit
PIM position and intended movement; point of intended movement; plan of intended
movement
PMI passive mode inhibit; patient movement items; prevention of mutual interference;
primary movement items
PO peace operations
POD plan of the day; port of debarkation; probability of detection; print on demand
POE port of embarkation; port of entry; planned operational environment; projected opera-
tional environment
POS primary operating stock(s); peacetime operating stocks; port of support; position;
probability of success
PR personnel recovery
PRECOM precommissioning
PROC processor
PROP propeller
Ps excess power
PS port security
PSC personnel services company; port security company (MTMC); principal subordinate
command
PST primary search tone; primary search tonal; precision strike Tomahawk
PT patrol torpedo
PTDS post-tune-drift-stabilization
PTP point-to-point
PU participating unit
PWC public works center; primary warfare commander; principal warfare commander
PZ pickup zone
QA quality assurance
QC quality control
QE quadrant elevation
QS quick strop
QTY quantity
QUAL qualification
RA ready alert
RAC readiness acceptance check; radar azimuth converter; repair, alignment, and calibra-
tion; river assault craft
RAD restricted availability docking; radar data; required availability date; radiation ab-
sorbed dose
RAP radar aiming point; reliable acoustic path; remedial action program
RCV receive
RD recognition differential
REACQ reacquisition
RECON reconnaissance
RG air ambulance
RGB red-green-blue
RIB rubberized inflatable boat; rigid inflatable boat; router information base
RL reverberation level
RMC regional maintenance center; rescue mission commander; reduced material condition
RO range only
RO/RO roll-on/roll-off
ROC regional operations center; required operational capability; rate of climb; reduced op-
erational capability program (NTDS)
ROS remote optical site; reduced operating status; remote optical sight
RP reference position
RQMT requirement
RR reduction ratio
RSS root sum square; ready supply store; raster scan surveillance; radar systems supervisor
RST reset
RT remote terminal
RTS readiness training squadron; real-time subsystem; remote tracking station; rapid tar-
geting system; run to stop
RX receiver
RZ recovery zone
S salinity
S/A surface-to-air
S/S steamship
SAC special accounting code; scene-of-action commander; special agent in charge; sup-
porting arms coordinator
SAP surface attack permit; simplified acquisition procedure; search action plan
SARSAT search and rescue satellite-aided tracking; search and rescue satellite
SARTS small arms remote target system; salvage assistance response team (MDSU)
SAT security alert team; submarine advisory team; satellite; security alert team
SATRTN saturation
SAU search and attack unit; search attack unit; spectrum analyzer unit
SB sideband
SC sea combat; screen commander/coordinator; sea current; search and rescue coordina-
tor; station clock
SCA sound channel axis; shipping control authority; stabilizer control amplifier
SCC shipping control coordinator; shipping coordination center; system coordinate cen-
ter; sea combat commander
SCP sensor correlation program; ship control panel; shipping control point
S-D synchro-to-digital
SE signal excess
SEDSCAF standard ELINT (electronics intelligence) data system codes and format
SEP SOSUS estimated position; spherical error probable; sealift enhancement program
SHR shore
SI special intelligence
SID seismic intrusion device; standard instrument departure; sudden ionospheric distur-
bance; surveillance identification director (USMC); standard information display
SIV special interest vehicle; special interest vessel; special operations intelligence vehicle
SKED schedule
SLAM sea-launched air missile; short lofar altering message; stand-off land attack missile
SO special operations
SOC satellite operations center; special operations capable; strike operations coordinator;
special operations craft
SOP standard operating procedure; standing operating procedure(s); ship’s operational program
SORM ship’s organization and regulation manual; standard organization and regulation manual
SPLX simplex
SPM secondary propulsion motor; single point mooring; single port manager
SRA shop replaceable assembly; ship restricted availability; shipping risk area
SRP sound reference point; sealift readiness program; seaward recovery point
SRU ship repair unit; search and rescue unit; survivor rescue unit
SSN attack submarine, nuclear; Social Security number; space surveillance network
SSS sector scan surveillance; strike support ship; system supervisor station
STBD starboard
STC sensitivity time constant; sensitivity time control; short time constant
STD standard
STDBY standby
STK strike
STT shore targeting terminal; single target tracker; small tactical terminal; special tactics
team
STU shore targeting unit; subscriber transmission unit; secure telephone unit
SU search unit
SUPP supplement
SUR surface
SV sound velocity
SZ surf zone
T/B time-bearing
T/F time-frequency
T/I track/illuminator
T/W thrust-to-weight
TA target acquisition; target angle; technical authority; target audience; technical ar-
rangement; theater Army
TAC tactical advanced computer; terminal access controller; terminal attack control; ter-
minal attack controller; tactical computer; tactical air controller; tactical air com-
mander; tactical; transportation account code
TACAIR tactical aviation; tactical air forces; tactical aircraft; tactical air
TACAMO Navy airborne VLF (very low frequency) relay system; take charge and move out
TACAN tactical aide to navigation; tactical air navigation; tactical air navigation systems
TACTAS tactical towed array sonar system; tactical towed array system
T-AGOS tactical auxiliary general ocean surveillance; towed auxiliary general ocean surveillance
TAO tactical air observation (net); tactical air observer; tactical air officer; tactical actions
officer
TAP transient acoustic processing; tactical analysis plot; training allowance pool
TAR tactical air request; training and administration of reserves; target acquisition radar
TARPS tactical air reconnaissance photo system; tactical air reconnaissance photography system
TAS target acquisition system; true air speed; towed array sensor
TB/TF time-bearing/time-frequency
TC time charter
TCO thrust cut-off; tactical combat operations; tactical control officer; technical cogni-
zance office
TCP torpedo control panel; tactical contingency pod; timing control point
TCS touch control steering; tactical command system; target control system
TCU teletype communications unit; terminal control unit; track control unit
TE task element; threat EMCON (mode); threat evaluation; trailing edge; turbine electric
TF task force
TG task group
TIP target information package; torpedo intercept point; technical improvement plan; tac-
tical intelligence product; target information package
TK track
TLCF TACINTEL (tactical intelligence) link control facility; TACINTEL link control
facilities
TO transportation officer
TOPO topographic
TORP torpedo
TPK turns-per-knot
TPS TLAM planning system; test program set; Tomahawk planning system
TR turbine reduction
TRANS transport
TRAP tactical receive equipment related applications; tactical recovery of aircraft and per-
sonnel; tactical related applications; tanks, racks, adapters, and pylons; terrorism re-
search and analysis program; threat research and analysis program
TRF Trident refit facility; true radiated frequency; true restored frequency
TRK track
TS target strength
TSR telecommunications service requests; turbine shaft rate; tactical sonar range
TTY teletype
TU task unit
TW threat warning
TX transmitter
UC urgent change
UD underwater demolition
UE universal exciter
UV ultraviolet
VA vital area
VARVAL vessel arrival data, list of vessels available to marine safety offices and captains of the
port
VC voyage charter
VDT variable depth transducer; video display terminal; variable depression transmission
VERDIN VLF (very low frequency) multichannel submarine broadcast; VLF digital informa-
tion network
VI vertical insertion
VSBY visibility
VT volunteer training
VTC vessel traffic control; vessel traffic center; video teleconferencing capability
VU volume unit
VUL vulnerability
W/L waterline
W/O without
WAC weapons assignment console; world aeronautical chart; world area code
WACBE world area code basic encyclopedia; world aeronautical chart basic encyclopedia
WB wideband
WCP weapons classification defects; weapons control panel; weapons control processor
Wd damage width
WE weapon effectiveness
WL waterline
WPT waypoint
WX weather
XCVR transceiver
XMIT transmission
XMT exempt
XO executive officer
XPNDR transponder
XSIT transit
XTAL crystal
YM dredge (self-propelled)
ZZ force center
INTENTIONALLY BLANK