Glossary of Aviation terms & Acronymns
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A/A
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Air-to-Air
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A/C
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Aircraft
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A/G
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Air-to-Ground
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AAA
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Anti-Aircraft Artillery
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ABORT(ING)(ED)
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Directive/informative to cease action/attack/event/mission.
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AC
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Aircraft
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ACARS
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Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System
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ACAS
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Airborne Collision and Avoidance System
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ACF
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Area Control Facility
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ACTION
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Directive to initiate a briefed attack sequence or maneuver.
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ACTIVE
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An emitter is radiating.
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ADD( )
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Directive call to add a specific (system) or (EOB category) to search responsibility.
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ADF
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Attitude Director lndicator
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ADF
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Automatic Direction Finder
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AERA
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Automated Enroute Air Traffic Control
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AGL
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Above Ground Level
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AGM
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Air-to-Ground Missile
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AI
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Air Interdiction/Air Intercept
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AIC
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Air Intercept Control
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AIM
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Air Intercept Missile
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ALARM
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Directive/informative indicating the termination of EMCON procedures.
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ALCP
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Air Logistics Command Post
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ALLIGATOR
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Link-11/ TADIL A.
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ALPHA CHECK
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Request for/confirmation of bearing and range to described point.
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ALT
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Altitude
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AM
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Amplitude Modulation
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ANCHOR(ED)
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1. Orbit about a specific point; refueling track flown by tanker. 2. Informative to indicate a turning engagement about a specific location.
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ANGELS
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Height of friendly aircraft in thousands of feet
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AO
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Area of Operations
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AOR
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Area Of Responsibility
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APRT
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Airport
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APU
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Auxiliary Power Unit
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ARINC
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Aeronautical Radio Incorporated
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ARIZONA
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No ARM ordnance remaining.
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ARM
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Anti-Radiation Missiles
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ARTS
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Automated Radar Terminal System
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ARTTC
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Air Route Traffic Control Center
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AS FRAGGED
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Unit or element will be performing exactly as stated by the air tasking order.
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ASCM
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Anti-Ship Cruise Missiles
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ASI
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Air Speed Indicator
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ASM
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Anti-Ship Missile
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ASOS
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Automatic Surface Observation System
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ATC
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Air Traffic Control (a generic term for a joint civil/military system for controlling traffic within a specific area)
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ATCT
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Air Traffic Control Tower
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ATIS
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Automatic Terminal Information Service (recorded voice message that provides weather and airport services information)
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ATM
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Air Tasking Message
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ATO
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Air Tasking Order
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ATSC
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Air Traffic Service Communications (Communications related to air traffic services. This includes ATC, aeronautical and meteorological Information, position reporting and services related to safety and regularity of flight)
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AUTHENTICATE
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To request or provide a response for a coded challenge.
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AUTOCAT
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Any communications relay using automatic retransmissions.
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AWACS
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Airborne Warning And Control System
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AZIMUTH
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Two or more groups primarily separated in bearing.
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BANDIT
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An aircraft identified as enemy, in accordance with theater ID criteria. The term does not necessarily imply direction or authority to engage.
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BANZAI
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Informative or directive to execute launch and decide tactics.
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BASE (Number)
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Reference number used to indicate such information as headings, altitude, fuels, etc.
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BEAD WINDOW
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Last transmission potentially disclosed unauthorized information.
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BEAM(ING)
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Target stabilized within 70 to 110 degree aspect; (Direction) generally given with cardinal directions: east, west, north, south.
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BENT
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System indicated is inoperative.
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BINGO
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1. Fuel state needed for recovery. 2. Proceed/ am proceeding to specified base (field) or carrier.
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BIRD
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Friendly surface-to-air missile (SAM).
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BIRD(S) AFFIRM S/A
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informative indicating unit is able and prepared to engage a specified target with SAMs (presumes target is within or will enter the SAM engagement envelope).
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BIRD(S) AWAY
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Friendly SAM has been fired at designated target.
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BIRD(S) NEGAT S/A
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informative indicating unit is unable to engage a specified target with SAMs. Opposite of BIRD(S) AFFIRM.
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BITTERSWEET
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Notification of possible BLUE ON BLUE situation relative to a designated track or friendly aircraft.
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BLANK A SEAD
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aircraft does not detect any emitters of interest.
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BLIND
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No visual contact with friendly aircraft/ground position. Opposite of VISUAL.
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BLOW THROUGH
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Directive/informative call that indicates aircraft will continue straight ahead at the merge and not turn with target/targets.
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BOGEY
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A radar or visual air contact whose identity is unknown.
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BOGEY DOPE
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Request for target information as briefed/available.
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BOX
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Groups/contacts/formations in a square or offset square.
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BRAA
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Bearing, Range, Altitude, Aspect. Tactical control format providing target bearing, range, altitude, and aspect, relative to a friendly aircraft.
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BRACKET
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Indicates geometry where friendly aircraft will maneuver to a position on opposing sides, either laterally or vertically from the target.
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BREAK (Direction)
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Directive to perform an immediate maximum performance turn in the direction indicated. Assumes a defensive situation.
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BREAKAWAY
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Tanker or receiver directive call indicating immediate vertical and nose/tail separation between tanker and receiver is required.
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BREVITY
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Radio frequency is becoming saturated/degraded or jammed and briefer transmissions must follow.
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BROADCAST
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Request/directive to switch to broadcast control.
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BROKE LOCK
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Loss of radar/IR lock-on (advisory).
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BRUISER
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Friendly air launched anti-ship missile (ASM) (e.g., HARPOON, EXOCET, PENGUIN).
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BUDDY LOCK
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Locked to a known friendly aircraft. Normally a response to a SPIKED OR BUDDY SPIKE call and accompanied with position/heading/altitude.
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BUDDY SPIKE
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Friendly aircraft air-to-air indication on RWR. To be followed by position/heading/altitude.
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BUGOUT
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Separation from that particular engagement/attack/operation; (Direction) no intent to reengage/return.
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BULLDOG
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Friendly surface/submarine launched anti-ship missile (ASM) (e.g., HARPOON, EXOCET, OTOMAT).
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BULLSEYE
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An established point from which the position of an object can be referenced. Made by cardinal/range or digital format.
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BUMP/BUMP-UP
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A fly-up to acquire LOS to the target or laser designation.
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BURN GLINT
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used to provide illumination.
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BUSTER
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Directive call to fly at max continuous speed (military power).
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BUZZER
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Electronic communications jamming.
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BVR
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Beyond Visual Range
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C2
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Command and Control
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CANDYGRAM
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Informative call to aircraft that EW targeting information is available on a briefed secure net.
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CAP
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Civil Air Patrol
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CAP
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Combat Air Patrol
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CAP/CAPPING
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1. Directive call to establish an (Location) orbit at a specified location. 2. An orbit at an specified location.
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CAPTURED
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Aircrew has identified and is able to track a specified A/G target with an on-board sensor.
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CAT I
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Facility providing operation down to 200 feet decision height and runway visual range not less than 2600 feet.
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CAT II
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Facility providing operation down to 100 feet decision height and runway visual range not less than 1200 feet.
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CAT II a
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Facility providing operation with no decision height limit to and along the surface of the runway with external visual reference during final phase of landing and with a runway visual range not less than 700 feet.
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CEASE
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In air defense, break the ENGAGEMENT engagement on the target specified. Missiles in flight will continue to intercept.
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CEASE FIRE
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Do not open fire or discontinue firing; complete intercept if weapons are in flight; continue to track.
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CHAMPAGNE
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An attack of three distinct groups with two in front and one behind.
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CHATTERMARK
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Begin using briefed radio procedures to counter communications jamming.
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CHEAPSHOT
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1. (USAF) Active missile supported to high PRF but not medium PRF. 2. (Naval) Active missile not supported to active range.
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CHECK Turn ( )
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degrees left or right and maintain new heading. (LEFT/RIGHT)
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CHERUBS
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Height of a friendly aircraft in hundreds of feet.
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CHICKS
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Friendly aircraft.
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CLEAN
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1. No radar contacts on aircraft of interest. 2. No visible battle damage. 3. Aircraft not carrying external stores.
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CLEARED
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Requested action is authorized (no engaged/support roles are assumed).
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CLEARED HOT
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Ordnance release is authorized.
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CLOAK
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Directive/informative switch from normal external lighting to covert NVD only compatible lighting.
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CLOSING
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Decreasing in range.
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CNTR
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Center
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COLD
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1. Attack geometry will result in a pass or roll out behind the target. 2. On a leg of the CAP pointed away from the anticipated threats. 3. Group(s) heading away from friendly aircraft.
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COLOR
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Request for information on a (System/Position) (system) at stated location; usually a request for ambiquity resolution. May be used with IDM data message - COLOR, DATA
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COMEOFF
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Directive to maneuver as indicated to either regain (Left/Right/ mutual support or to deconflict flight paths for an exchange of Low/Dry) engaged and supporting roles. Implies both VISUAL and TALLY.
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COMMIT(TED)
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Fighter intent to engage/intercept; controller continues to provide information.
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CONFETTI
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Chaff lane or corridor.
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CONS/CONNING
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Threat/bogey aircraft leaving contrails.
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CONTACT
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1. Sensor contact at the stated position. 2. Acknowledges sighting of a specified reference point.
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CONTINUE
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Continue present maneuver, does not imply clearance to engage or expend ordnance.
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CONTINUE DRY
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Ordnance release not authorized.
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COVER(ING)
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Directive/Informative to take S/A action or establish an A/A posture that will allow engagement of a specified target or threat.
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CRANK
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F-Pole maneuver; implies illuminating target at radar gimbal (Direction) limits.
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CTAF
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Common Traffic Advisory Frequency
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CTR
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Center
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CTRL
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Control
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CUTOFF
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Request for, or directive to, intercept using cutoff geometry.
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CYCLOPS
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Any UAV.
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DASH (#)
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Aircraft position within a flight. Use if specific callsign is unknown.
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DATA
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Standby for IDM data message (Object/Position) concerning at (object) stated location.
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DEADEYE
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Informative call by an airborne laser designator indicating the laser/IR system is inoperative.
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DECLARE
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Inquiry as to the indentification of a specified track(s), target(s), or correlated group.
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DEFENSIVE
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Aircraft is in a defensive position and maneuvering with (Spike/Missile/ reference to the stated condition. SAM/Mud/AAA)
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DE-LOUSE
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Directive to detect and identify unknown aircraft trailing friendly aircraft.
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DEP
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Departure
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DEPLOY
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Directive to maneuver to briefed positioning.
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DF
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Direction Finding
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DIVERT
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Proceed to alternate mission/base.
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DME
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Distance Measuring Equipment (ground navigational aid that can provide display of distance to selected ground navigational radio transmitter)
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DOD or DoD
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Department of Defense
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DOLLY
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Link-4A/TADIL C
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DOT
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Department of Transportation
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DRAG(ING)
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1. (AF) Target stabilized at 0-60 degrees aspect. (Direction) 2. (Naval) Target stabilized at 120-180 degrees aspect.
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DROP(ING)
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1. Directive/informative to stop monitoring a specified emitter/target and resume search responsibilities. 2. Remove the emitter/target from tactical picture/track stores.
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DUCK
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Tactical Air Launched Decoy (TALD).
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ECHELON
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Groups/contacts/formation with wingman displaced approximately 45 degrees behind leaderÆs 3/9 line.
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ECHO
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Positive SEESAW/EWWS/ System M/Mode X reply.
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EID
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Electronic Identification
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ELT
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Emergency Locator Transmitter
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EMCON
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Emission Control
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EMS
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Emergency Medical Services
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ENG
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Engine
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ENGAGED
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Maneuvering with the intent to kill. Implies visual/radar acquisition of target.
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EO
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ElectroOptical
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EOB
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Electronic Order of Battle
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EST
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Estimated
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ESTIMATE
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Provides estimate of the size, range, height, or other parameter of a specified contact; implies degradation.
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ETA
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Estimated Time of Arrival
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EW
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Electronic Warfare
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EXTEND
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Short term maneuver to gain energy, distance, or separation; (Direction) normally with the intent of re-engaging.
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EYEBALL( )
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1. Fighter with primary visual identification responsibility. 2. EO/IR/NVD acquisition of an aircraft. Normally followed by ( ) number of aircraft observed.
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F/D (FD)
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Flight Director
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FAA
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Federal Aviation Administration
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FAC-A
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Forward Air Controller-Airborne
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FADED
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Radar contact is lost. (Termination of track plotting is not warranted.)
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FAST
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Target speed is estimated to be 600 knots ground speed/mach 1 or greater.
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FATHER
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TACAN station.
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FBO
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Fixed Based Operator
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FEET WET/DRY
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Flying over water/land.
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FENCE (In/Out)
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Set cockpit switches as appropriate prior to entering/exiting the combat area.
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FIR
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Flight Information Region
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FL
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Flight Level. For example, FL310 is an altitude 31,000 ft. above sea level; used for altitudes above 18,000 ft.
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FLANK(ING)
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1. (USAF) Target with a stable aspect of 120 to 150 degrees. 2. (Naval) Target with stable aspect of 30 to 60 degrees.
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FLASH (System)
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Temporarily turn on prebriefed IFF mode or system.
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FLOAT
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Directive/informative to expand the formation laterally within visual limits to maintain a radar contact or prepare for a defensive response.
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FLT
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Flight
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FM
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Frequency Modulation
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FOX (Number)
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Simulated/actual launch of air-to-air weapons. ONE - semi-active radar-guided missile. TWO - infrared-guided missile. THREE - active radar-guided missile.
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FOX MIKE
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VHF/FM radio.
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F-POLE
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Distance between shooter and target at impact.
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FRIENDLY
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A positively identified friendly contact.
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FSO
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Flight Support Operations
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FSS
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Flight Service Station. Air traffic facilities which provide pilot briefing, en route communications and VFR search and rescue services, assist lost aircraft and aircraft in emergency situations, relay ATC clearances, originate Notices to Airmen, broadcast aviation weather and NAS information, receive and process IFR flight plans, and monitor NAVAIDs. In addition, at selected locations, FSSs provide En Route Flight Advisory Service (Flight Watch), take weather observations, issue airport advisories, and advise Customs and Immigration of transborder flights.
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FURBALL
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A turning fight involving multiple aircraft with known BANDITs and FRIENDLIES mixed.
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GA
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General Aviation
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GADGET
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Radar or emitter equipment.
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GATE
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Directive/informative to fly as quickly as possible, using after-burner/max power.
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GCA
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Ground-controlled Approach
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GCI
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Ground Control Intercept
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GIMBAL
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Radar target is approaching azimuth or elevation limits. (Direction)
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GLINT
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Gated Laser Intensifier
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GMT
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Greenwich MeanTime
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GO ACTIVE
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Go to briefed Have Quick net.
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GO CLEAR
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Use unencrypted voice communications.
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GO SECURE
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Use encrypted voice communications.
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GOGGLE
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Directive/informative to put DEGOGGLE on/take off NVDÆs.
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GORILLA
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Large force of indeterminate numbers and formation.
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GPS
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Global Positioning System
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GRANDSLAM
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All HOSTILE aircraft of a designated track (or against which a mission was tasked) are shot down.
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GREEN (Direction)
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Direction determined to be clearest of enemy air-to-air activity.
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GREYHOUND
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Friendly ground attack cruise missile (e.g. TLAM, CALCM).
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GROUP
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Radar targets within approximately 3 NM of each other.
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GS
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Ground Speed
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GUNS
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An air-to-air or air-to-surface gunshot.
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HARD (Direction)
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High-G, energy sustaining turn.
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HARM
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High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile
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HBARO
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Barometric Altitude
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HDG
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Heading
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HEAD
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(USAF) Target with an aspect aspect of 160 to 180 degrees.
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HEAD ON
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(Naval) Target with an aspect of 0 to 20 degrees.
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HEADS UP
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Alert of an activity of interest.
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HEAVY
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A group or package known to contain three or more entities.
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HF
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High Frequency
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HI
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High
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HIGH
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Between 25,000 and 40,000 ft MSL.
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HIGH-G
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High Gravity
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HIT(S)
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1. (A/A) Momentary radar return(s) in search. (Indicates approximate altitude information from fighter.) 2. (A/G) Weapons impact within lethal distance.
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HOLD DOWN
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Directive to key transmitter for DF steer.
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HOLD FIRE
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An emergency fire control order used to stop firing on a designated target, to include destruction of any missiles in flight.
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HOLDING HANDS
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Aircraft in visual formation.
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HOME PLATE
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Home airfield or carrier.
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HOOK (Left/Right)
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Directive to perform an in-place 180 degree turn.
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HOSTILE
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A contact identified as enemy upon which clearance to fire is authorized in accordance with theater rules of engagement.
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HOT
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1. Attack geometry will result in roll out in front of the target. 2. On a leg of the CAP pointing toward the anticipated threats. 3. Group heading towards friendly aircraft. Opposite of COLD. 4. Ordnance employment intended or completed.
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HOTDOG
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Informative/directive call that an aircraft is approaching or at a specified stand-off distance from the sovereign airspace of a nation (as defined by national boundaries or territorial sea and airspace). (COLOR may indicate additional standoff distance.)
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HOTEL FOX
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HF radio
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HP
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Holding Pattern
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HPRF
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High Pulse Repetition Frequency
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HUD
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Head-Up Display
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HUSKY
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(Naval) AIM-120 supported to HPRF active. Same as USAF CHEAPSHOT.
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HVAA
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High Value Airborne Assets
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IAOA
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Indicated Angle-of-Attack
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IAS
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Indicated Airspeed
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IC
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Initial Contact
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ID
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Identification 1. Directive to identify the target. 2. ID accomplished, followed by type.
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IDENT
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Identification
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IDM
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Improved Data Modem
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IFF
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Identification, Friend or Foe
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IFR
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Instrument Flight Rules. A set of rules governing the conduct of flight under instrument meteorological conditions.
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ILS
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Instrument Landing System. A ground based precision approach system that provides course and vertical guidance to landing aircraft.
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IN (Direction)
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Informative indicating a turn to a hot aspect relative to a threat/target.
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INDIA
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Mode IV.
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INTERROGATE
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Interrogate the designated contact of the IFF mode indicated.
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IR
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Infrared
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JACKAL
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Surveillance network participating group (NPG) of Link 16/TADIL J.
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JATO
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Jet Assisted Takeoff
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JOKER
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Fuel state above BINGO at which separation/bugout/event termination should begin.
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JUDY
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Aircrew has radar/visual contact on the correct target, has taken control of the intercept and only requires situation awareness information. Controller will minimize radio transmissions.
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KILL
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1. Clearance to fire. 2. In training, a fighter call to indicate kill criteria have been fulfilled.
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KNOCK IT OFF
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Directive to cease air combat maneuvers/attacks/activities.
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LADDER
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Three or more groups/contacts in range.
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LASER ON
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Directive to start laser designation.
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LAT
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Latitude
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LEAD-TRAIL
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Tactical formation of two contacts within a group separated in range or following one another.
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LEAKER(S)
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Airborne threat has passed through a defensive layer. Call should include amplifying information.
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LIGHTS ON/OFF
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Directive to turn on/off exterior lights.
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LINE ABREAST
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Two contacts within a group side-by-side.
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LNAV
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Lateral Navigation (provides computer description of aircraft's planned lateral flight path that can be tracked by the autoflight system; lateral path can be shown on map display.)
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LO
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Low
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LOC
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Localizer Beam. The component of an ILS that provides course guidance to the runway.
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LOCKED
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Final radar lock-on; sort is not assumed. (BRAA/Direction)
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LON
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Longitude
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LOS
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Line Of Sight
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LOST CONTACT
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Radar contact lost. (DROP track is recommended).
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LOST LOCK
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Loss of radar/IR lock-on (advisory).
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LOW
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Target altitude below 10,000 ft AGL.
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M/ASI
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Mach/Airspeed Indicator
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MAA
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Maximum Authorized IFR Altitude
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MAG
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Magnetic
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MAGNUM
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Launch of friendly antiradiation missile.
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MAINT
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Maintenance
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MAPPING
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Multi-function radar in an A/G mode.
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MARKING
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Friendly aircraft leaving contrails.
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MARSA
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Military Accepts Responsibility for Separation of Aircraft
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MARSHAL(ING)
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Establish(ed) at a specific point.
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MAX
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Maximum
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MCA
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Minimum Crossing Altitude
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MDA
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Minimum Descent Altitude
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MEA
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Minimum Enroute Altitude
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MEDIUM
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Target altitude between 10,000 ft AGL and 25,000 ft MSL.
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MERGE(D)
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1. Information that friendlies and targets have arrived in the same visual arena. 2. Call indicating radar returns have come together.
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METRO
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Meteorology (weather)
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MICKEY
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Have Quick Time-of-Day (TOD) signal.
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MIDNIGHT
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Informative advising that C2 functions are no longer available. Opposite of SUNRISE.
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MILCOMM
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Military Communications
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MILSPEC
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Military Specifications
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MOA
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Military Operations Area
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MODE A
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Transmission of unique identifer in ATCRBS by planes. Also used in Mode S.
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MODE C
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Transmission of altitude in ATCRBS by planes. Also used in Mode S.
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MODE S
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Type of secondary surveillance radar (SSR) equipment which provides Mode A and Mode C interrogations, discrete address (Mode S) interrogations from the ground or air, and a data link capability
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MONITOR
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Maintain radar awareness on or assume responsibility for specified group.
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MOTHER
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Parent ship.
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MPRF
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Medium Pulse Repetition Frequency
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MRA
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Minimum Reception Altitude
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MSL
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Mean Sea Level
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MTBF
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Mean Time Between Failures
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MUD
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Indicates RWR ground threat displayed followed by clock (Type/Direction) position and type.
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MUSIC
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Electronic radar jamming. (On AI radar, electronic deceptive jamming.)
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N/A
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Not Applicable
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NAILS
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RWR indication of AI radar in search. Add clock position/azimuth, if known.
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NAKED
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No RWR indications.
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NAS
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National Airspace System
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NASA
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National Aeronautics and Space Administration
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NAV
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Navigation
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NAVAID
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Navigational Aid. Any visual or electronic device, airborne or on the surface, which provides point-to-point guidance information or position data to aircraft in flight.
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NCTR
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NonCooperative Target Recognition
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NDB
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Nondirectional Radio Beacon
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NEW PICTURE
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Used by controller or aircrew when tactical picture has changed. Supersedes all previous calls and re-establishes picture for all players.
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NM
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Nautical Mile. International unit equal to 6076.115 feet (1852 meters).
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NO FACTOR
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Not a threat.
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NO JOY
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Aircrew does not have visual contact with the target/bandit/ landmark. Opposite of TALLY.
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NOAA
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National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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NOTAM
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Notice to Airmen. A notice containing information (not known sufficiently in advance to publicize by other means) concerning the establishment, condition, or change in any component (facility, service, or procedure of, or hazard in the National Airspace System) the timely knowledge of which is essential to personnel concerned with flight operations
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NOTCH
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All-aspect missile defensive maneuver to place threat radar/missile (Direction) on the beam.
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NPG
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Network Participating Group
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NTSB
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National Transportation Safety Board
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NVD
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Night Vision Device
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OFF (Direction)
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Informative call indicating attack is terminated and maneuvering to the indicated direction.
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OFFSET
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Informative call indicating maneuver in a specified direction with (Direction) reference to the target.
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ON STATION
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Informative unit/aircraft has reached assigned station.
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OPENING
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Increasing in range.
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OUT (Direction)
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Informative indicating a turn to a cold aspect relative to the threat. Opposite of IN.
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OUTLAW
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Informative call that a bogey has met point of origin criteria.
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PACKAGE
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Geographically isolated collection of groups/contacts/formations.
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PADLOCKED
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Informative call indicating aircrew cannot take eyes off an aircraft or surface position without risk of losing TALLY/VISUAL.
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PAINT(S)
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Interrogated group/radar contact that is responding with any of the specified IFF modes and correct codes established for the ID criteria.
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PAR
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Precision Approach Radar
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PARROT
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IFF transponder.
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PBD
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Place Bearing/Distance (way point)
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PICTURE
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Provide tactical situation status pertinent to mission.
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PIGEONS
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Magnetic bearing and range to HOMEPLATE (or specified (Location) destination).
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PINCE/PINCER
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Threat maneuvering for a bracket attack
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PIREPS
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Pilot Reports
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PITBULL
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1. Informative AIM-120 is at MPRF active range. 2. AIM-54 at active range.
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PLAYMATE
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Cooperating aircraft.
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PLAYTIME
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Amount of time aircraft can remain on station.
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PMSV
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Pilot to Metro Service
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POGO
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Switch to communication channel number preceding POGO. If unable to establish communications, switch to channel number following POGO. If no channel number follows POGO, return to this channel.
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POP
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1. Starting climb for air-to-surface attack. 2. Max performance climb out of low altitude structure.
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POPEYE
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Flying in clouds or area of reduced visibility.
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POPUP
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Informative call of a contact that has suddenly appeared inside of meld/CCR/briefed range.
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POS
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Position
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POSIT
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Request for position; response in terms of a geographic landmark, or off a common reference point.
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POST ATTACK
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Directive transmission to indicate desired direction after completion (Direction) of intercept/engagement.
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POST HOLE
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Rapid descending spiral.
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PRESS
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Directive to continue the attack; mutual support will be maintained. Supportive role will be assumed.
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PRF
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Pulse Repetition Frequency
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PRINT (Type)
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Unambiguous NCTR reply.
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PTD
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Pilot to Dispatcher
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PUMP
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A briefed maneuver to low aspect to stop closure on the threat or geographical boundary with the intent to re-engage.
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PURE
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Informative indicating pure pursuit is being used or directive to go pure pursuit.
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PUSH (Channel)
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Go to designated frequency. No acknowledgment required
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PUSHING
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Departing designated point.
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PUSHING
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Informative that said group(s) have turned cold and will continue (Group description) to be monitored.
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QRH
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The barometric pressure as reported by a particular station
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QUAD
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Quadrant
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R/C
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Rate of Climb
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RAD
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Radial
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RANGE
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Two or more groups separated primarily separated in distance along the same bearing.
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RAYGUN
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Indicates a radar lock-on to unknown aircraft. A request for a (Position/Heading/ BUDDY SPIKE reply from friendly aircraft meeting these Altitude) parameters(to prevent fratricide).
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RCP
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Radio Control Panel
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RDP
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Radar Data Processing (system)
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REFERENCE
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Directive to assume stated heading. (Direction)
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REPORTED
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Identification of an object or a contact by an intelligence system. (Type)
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RESET
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Proceed to a prebriefed position or area of operation.
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RESUME
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Resume last formation/station/ mission ordered.
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RETROGRADE
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Directive to withdraw from present position or area of operation in response to a threat.
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RIDER
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A bogey that is conforming with safe passage routing/airspeed/altitude procedures.
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RIFLE
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AGM-65 MAVERICK launch.
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RIO
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Radar Intercept Officer
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RIPPLE
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Two or more munitions released or fired in close succession.
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RNAV
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Area Navigation (generic acronym for any device capable of aircraft guidance between pilot-defined waypoints
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ROE
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Rules Of Engagement
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ROLEX (+/- Time)
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Timeline adjustment in minutes from planned mission execution time. (Plus means later; minus means earlier).
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ROPE
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Illumination of an aircraft with an IR pointer.
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RTE
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Route
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RWR
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Radar Warning Receiver
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RWY
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Runway
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RY
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Runway
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S/A
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Surface to Air
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SADDLED
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Informative from wingman/element indicating the return to briefed formation position.
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SAM
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Surface-to-Air Missile
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SAM (Direction)
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Visual acquisition of a SAM or SAM launch, should include position.
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SAMSO
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Space and Missile Systems Organization
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SANDWICHED
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A situation where an aircraft/element positioned between opposing aircraft/elements.
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SATCOMM
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Satellite Communications
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SAUNTER
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Fly at best endurance.
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SCRAM
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Emergency directive to egress for defensive or survival reasons. (Direction)
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SCRAMBLE
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Takeoff as quickly as possible.
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SCUD
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Any threat TBM.
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SEAD
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Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses
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SEPARATE
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Leave a specific engagement; may or may not reenter.
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SESMA
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Special Event Search and Master Analysis
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SFA
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Single Frequency Approach
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SHACKLE
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One WEAVE, a single crossing of flight paths; maneuver to adjust/regain formation parameters.
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SHADOW
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Follow indicated target.
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SHIFT
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Directive to shift laser illumination.
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SHOOTER
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Aircraft/unit designated to employ ordnance.
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SHOTGUN
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Prebriefed weapons state at which separation/bugout should begin.
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SID
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Standard Instrument Departure
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SIGMET
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Significant Meteorological Information
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SKATE
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Informative/directive to execute launch and leave tactics.
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SKIP IT
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Veto of fighter commit, usually followed with further directions.
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SKOSH
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Aircraft is out of/or unable to employ active radar missiles.
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SKUNK
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A radar or visual maritime surface contact whose identity is unknown.
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SLAPSHOT
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Directive for an aircraft to employ a range unknown HARM (Type/Bearing) against a specified threat at the specified bearing.
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SLIDE
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Directive call to HVAA to continue present mission while extending range from target in response to perceived threat.
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SLOW
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Target with a ground speed of 300 knots or less.
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SMASH
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Directive to turn on/off anti-collision lights.
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SMOKE
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Smoke marker used to mark a position.
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SNAKE
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Directive to oscillate an IR pointer about a target.
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SNAP (Direction)
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An immediate vector to the group described.
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SNIPER
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Directive for an aircraft to employ a range-known HARM against a specified threat at the specified location.
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SNOOZE
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Directive/informative indicating initiation of EMCON procedures.
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SOF
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Supervisor of Flying
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SOP
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Standard Operating Procedure
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SORT
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Directive to assign responsibility within a group; criteria can be met visually, electronically (radar) or both.
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SORTED
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Sort responsibility has been met.
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SOUR
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1. Equipment indicated is operating inefficiently. 2. Invalid response to an administrative IFF check. (Opposite of SWEET)
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SP
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Space
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SPADES
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An interrogated group/radar contact which lacks the ATO (or equivalent) IFF modes and codes required for the ID criteria.
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SPARKLE
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Target marking by IR pointer. Target marking by gunship or FAC-A using incendiary rounds.
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SPIKE
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RWR indication of an AI threat in track, launch, or unknown mode. Include bearing/clock position and threat type, if known.
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SPIN
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Directive/informative to execute a prebriefed timing/spacing maneuver.
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SPITTER
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An aircraft that has departed from the engagement or is departing (Direction) the engaged fighters targeting responsibility.
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SPLASH
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1. (A/A) Target destroyed. 2. (A/G) Weapons impact.
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SPLIT
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An informative call that a flight member is leaving formation to engage a threat; visual may not be maintained.
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SPOOFING
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Informative that voice deception is being employed.
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SPOT
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Acquisition of laser designation.
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SQUAWK ( )
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Operate IFF as indicated or IFF is operating as indicated.
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SQUAWKING
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An informative call denoting a bogey is responding with an IFF mode (Mode #)
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STACK
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Two or more groups/contacts/ formations with a high/low altitude separation in relation to each other.
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STAR
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StandardTerminal Arrival Route
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STATUS
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Request for tactical situation.
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STEADY
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Directive to stop oscillation of IR pointer.
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STEER
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Set magnetic heading indicated.
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STERN
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Request for, or directive to, intercept using stern geometry.
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STINGER
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Within a group, a formation of three or more aircraft with a single aircraft in trail.
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STOL
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Short Takeoff and Landing
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STOP
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Stop IR illumination of a target.
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STRANGER
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Unidentified traffic that is not associated with the action in progress.
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STRANGLE ( )
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Turn off equipment indicated.
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STRIP
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Individual fighter/section is leaving the formation to pursue separate attacks.
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STRIPPED
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Informative call from wingman/element indicating out of briefed formation/position.
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STROBE
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Radar indications of noise jamming.
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SUA
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Special Use Airspace
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SUNRISE
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Informative C2 functions are available (opposite of MIDNIGHT).
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SUNSHINE
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Directive or informative indicating illumination of target is being conducted with artificial illumination.
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SWAP
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Severe Weather Avoidance Program
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SWEET
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1. Equipment indicated is operating efficiently. 2. Valid response to an administrative IFF check. (Opposite of SOUR)
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SWITCH(ED)
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Indicates an attacker is changing from one aircraft to another.
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TACAN
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Tactical Air Navigation
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TACH
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Tachometer
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TACTICAL
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Request/directive to switch to tactical control.
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TADIL
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Tactical Digital Information Link
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TAG
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(System, Known identification of a specific (system) at the stated location. W/Position) May be used with IDM data message, (e.g. TAG DATA).
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TALD
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Tactical Air Launched Decoy
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TALLY
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Sighting of a target, bandit, bogey, or enemy position; opposite of NO JOY.
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TARGET ( )
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Directive to assign group responsibility to aircraft in a flight.
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TARGETED ( )
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Group responsibility has been met.
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TAS
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True Airspeed
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TATCA
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Terminal Air Traffic Control Automaiton
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TBD
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To Be Determined
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TBM
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Tactical/Theater Ballistic Missile
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TBS
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To Be Specified
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TCA
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Terminal Control Area
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TCAS
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Traffic Alert & Collision Avoidance System
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TDWR
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Terminal Doppler Weather Radar (TDWR located and classifies windshear conditions and provides advisories in the terminal area. These data are available through the DLP.)
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TEMP
|
Temperature
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TEN SECONDS
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Directive to terminal controller to standby for LASER ON call in approximately 10 seconds.
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TERMINATE
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1. Stop laser illumination of a target. 2. Cease local engagement without affecting the overall exercise.
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THREAT
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Untargeted HOSTILE/BANDIT/BOGEY within prebriefed range/(Direction) aspect of a friendly.
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THROTTLES
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Reduction in power to decrease IR signature.
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TIAS
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True Indicated Airspeed
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TIED
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Positive radar contact with element/aircraft.
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TIGER
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Enough fuel and ordnance to accept a commit.
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TIMBER
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Air control NPG of Link 16/TADIL J.
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TOD
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Time Of Day
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TOGA
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Takeoff/Go-Around
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TRACKING
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1. Stabilized gun solution. 2. Continuous illumination of a target. 3. Contact heading.
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TRACON
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Terminal Radar Approach Control. A terminal ATC facility that uses radar and nonradar capabilities to provide approach control services to aircraft arriving, departing, or transiting airspace controlled by the facility.
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TRAILER
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The last aircraft within a group(s).
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TRASHED
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Informative call that missile has been defeated.
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TRESPASS
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The addressed flight is entering a S/A threat ring of a specific (Position) system at the stated location.
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TUMBLEWEED
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Indicates limited situational awareness; NO JOY; BLIND; a request for information.
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UAV
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Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
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UHF
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Ultra High Frequency
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UNABLE
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Cannot comply as requested/directed.
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UNICOM
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Common traffic advisory frequency
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UNIFORM
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UHF radio.
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UTC
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Coordinated Universal Time (abbreviated as UTC, and therefore often spelled out as Universal Time Coordinated and sometimes as Universal Coordinated Time) is the standard time common to every place in the world. Formerly and still widely called Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and also World Time, UTC nominally reflects the mean solar time along the Earth's prime meridian.
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VAMPIRE
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Hostile antiship missile (ASM).
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VERY HIGH
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Above 40,000 ft MSL.?15
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VFR
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Visual Flight Rules. Rules that govern the procedures for conducting flight under visual conditions. The term "VFR" is also used in the United States to indicate weather conditions that are equal to or greater than minimum VFR requirements. In addition, it is used by pilots and controllers to indicate type of flight plan.
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VHF
|
Very High Frequency
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VIC
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Three groups, contacts, or formations with the single closest in range and two contacts, azimuth split, in trail.
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VICTOR
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VHF/AM radio.
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VISUAL
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Sighting of a friendly aircraft/ground position; opposite of BLIND.
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VOR
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Very High Frequency Omni Directional Range. A ground-based electronic navigation aid transmitting very high frequency navigation signals, 360 degrees in azimuth, oriented from magnetic north. Used as the basis for navigation in the National Airspace System. The VOR periodically identifies itself by Morse Code and may have an additional voice identification feature. Voice features may be used by ATC or FSS for transmitting instructions/information to pilots.
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VORTAC
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A navigation aid providing VOR azimuth, TACAN azimuth, and TACAN distance measuring equipment (DME) at one site.
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VSTOL
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Vertical or Short Takeoff and Landing
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VTOL
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Vertical Takeoff and Landing
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WALL
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Three or more groups or contacts primarily split in azimuth.
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WARNING (Color)
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Hostile attack is RED imminent or in progress. YELLOW probable. WHITE improbable (all clear).
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Waypoint
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Position in space usually on aircraft's flight plan
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WEAPONS ( )
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FREE, TIGHT HOLD or SAFE.
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WEEDS
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Indicates that aircraft are operating are operating close to the surface.
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WHAT LUCK
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Request for results of missions or tasks.
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WHAT STATE
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Report amount of fuel and missiles remaining. Ammunition and oxygen are reported only when specifically requested or critical.
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WINCHESTER
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No ordnance remaining.
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WND
|
Wind
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WORDS
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Directive or interrogative regarding further information or directives pertinent to mission.
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WORKING
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1. A SEAD aircraft is gathering EOB on a designated emitter. Generally followed by signal type (SAM/AAA/group), bearing, and range, if able. 2. Aircraft executing EID on a specific aircraft/group to obtain identification necessary for BVR employment.
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WPT
|
Way point
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WX
|
Weather
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WXR
|
Weather Radar
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X-BAND
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The frequency range between 8000 and 12500 MHz
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XCVR
|
Transceiver
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XMIT
|
Transmit
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XMITR
|
Transmitter
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XPD
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ATC Transponder (also XPDR, XPNDR, TPR)
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YARDSTICK
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Directive to use A/A TACAN for ranging.
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ZAB
|
Albuquerque Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZAN
|
Anchorage Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZAU
|
Chicago Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZBW
|
Boston Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZDC
|
Washington DC Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZDV
|
Denver Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZEG
|
Edmonton Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZFW
|
Fort Worth Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZHN
|
Honolulu Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZHU
|
Houston Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZID
|
Indianapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZJX
|
Jacksonville Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZKC
|
Kansas City Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZLA
|
Los Angeles Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZLC
|
Salt Lake City Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZMA
|
Miami Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZME
|
Memphis Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZMP
|
Minneapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZNY
|
New York Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZOA
|
Oakland Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZOB
|
Cleveland Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZQM
|
Moncton Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZQX
|
Gander Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZSE
|
Seattle Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZTL
|
Atlanta Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZUL
|
Montreal Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZVR
|
Vancouver Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZWG
|
Winnipeg Air Route Traffic Control Center
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ZYZ
|
Toronto Air Route Traffic Control Center
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