# Marine Corps Supplement To The Dod Dictionary Of Military And Associated Terms

US Marine Corps
         (As Amended Through 10 September 2020)
DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT A:  Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Headquarters United States Marine Corps Washington, D.C. 20350-3000

## Foreword

Standardization of military terminology provides for effective communication within
the Department of Defense (DOD). Marine Corps acronyms, terms, and definitions that have been accepted for joint usage are included in DOD Dictionary of Military
and Associated Terms, referred to as the *DOD Dictionary.* The *DOD Dictionary* is
the primary reference for military terms throughout DOD as directed in DOD Directive 5025.12, *Standardization of Military and Associated Terminology*.

Marine Corps Reference Publication (MCRP) 1-10.2, Marine Corps Supplement to
the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, is an extension of the DOD
Dictionary and provides Marine Corps-specific terms and definitions. This publication and the *DOD Dictionary* should be used in conjunction with each other. Terms, definitions, and acronyms contained in MCRP 1-10.2 come directly from Marine Corps doctrinal, warfighting, reference, and tactical publications. Where *DOD Dictionary* terms are amplified with Marine Corps-specific definitions, the accompanying acronyms are included in this publication, regardless of their inclusion in the *DOD Dictionary*. This publication will be maintained in an online format only. As new Marine Corps doctrinal, warfighting, reference, and tactical publications are signed or standing publications are revised, approved doctrinal terminology contained in those publications will be added to the online version of this publication. This publication supersedes MCRP 1-10.2 dated 16 November 2011 and cancels the erratum dated 2 May 2016. Reviewed and approved this date. BY DIRECTION OF THE COMMANDANT OF THE MARINE CORPS
ROBERT S. WALSH
Lieutenant General, U.S. Marine Corps Deputy Commandant for Combat Development and Integration

Distribution A: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.

Doctrinal additions or modifications to terms and acronyms and their definitions are annotated with an asterisk. These changes are a result of newly signed doctrine.
This publication has been updated on the following dates: 31 May 2018 10 September 2020

## Summary Of Changes

The title of this publication has officially changed to Marine Corp Supplement to the DOD Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms, with the official short title of *USMC Dictionary*.  The Service doctrine designator, Marine Corps Reference Publication (MCRP) 1-10.2, is no longer used. Marine Corps alignment with joint terminology resulted in the following changes to Marine Corps doctrine and terminology:

 The term "competition continuum" replaces "conflict continuum."
 The term "range of military operations" may be used in a general sense within Marine Corps
doctrine; however, "ROMO" is no longer a valid acronym within doctrine.
 See Section I: Abbreviations and Acronyms for significant changes to the following:

 The "MARFOR" entry was updated to provide additional clarity and is not a standalone
abbreviation.
 "ROMO" is no longer a valid acronym within doctrine.
 The term and acronym, communication strategy and operations (COMMSTRAT), replaces
Marine Corps combat camera [COMCAM ] and public affairs [PA] activities, capabilities, and military occupational specialties.
 Per signed memorandum (dated 22 Jan 2020) by the Deputy Commandant for Combat
Development and Integration and the Deputy Commandant for Information, the term and abbreviation information operations (IO) is a legacy term and is formally decommissioned as a
Marine Corps doctrinal term.
 See Section II: Terms and Definitions for significant changes to the following:

 All entries preceded by an asterisk (*) denotes either a change in the term or associated definition
or the insertion of a new term and definition.
 All warfighting function definitions are updated to reflect the addition of information as the
Marine Corps seventh warfighting function.
 Per the CMC guidance and MARADMIN 305/20, the term "Fleet Marine Forces (FMF)" replaces
"Marine Corps operating forces" and "operating forces" as related to commands and units at and below the Marine expeditionary force level.
 Table 1 details terms that are no longer used (see Former Title column) with the corresponding replacement term(s), as applicable.

##

| Former Term                                          | Replacement Term(s)                                       |
|------------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------|
| combat camera (COMCAM)                               | communication strategy and operations (COMMSTRAT)         |
| force fires coordination center (FFCC)               | fires and effects coordination center (FECC)              |
| joint interorganizational multinational (JIM)        | joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational  |
| (JIIM)                                               |                                                           |
| Sea Service Deployment Module (SSDM)                 | Marine Air-Ground Task Force Deployment Support           |
| System II (MDSS II)                                  |                                                           |
| Marine Corps Cyberspace Operations Group (MCCOG)     | Marine Corps Network Operations and Security Center       |
| (MCNOSC)                                             |                                                           |
| Marine Corps operating forces                        | Fleet Marine Forces (FMF)                                 |
| Nonsecure Internet Protocol Router Network (NIPRNET) | Non-classified Internet Protocol Router Network (NIPRNET) |
| Former Term         | Replacement Term(s)                               |
|---------------------|---------------------------------------------------|
| public affairs (PA) | communication strategy and operations (COMMSTRAT) |


Table 2 contains a list of terms (see Former Title column) that have become standard dictionary words and are no longer considered abbreviations or acronyms (see Replacement Term column).


| Former Abbreviation/Acronym    | Replacement Term    |
|--------------------------------|---------------------|
| FAX                            | fax                 |
| HAZMAT                         | hazmat              |
| LASER                          | laser               |
| RADAR                          | radar               |
| SCUBA                          | scuba               |
| SEAL team                      | SEAL team           |
| SONAR                          | sonar               |

 Table 3 contains list of military occupational specialties (MOSs) (see Former Title column) that have been renamed to incorporate gender neutrality (see Replacement Title column).



| MOS                                         | Former Title                                   | Replacement Title                                 |
|---------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------|
| 0300                                        | basic infantryman                              | basic infantry Marine                             |
| 0312                                        | riverine assault craft crewman                 | riverine assault craft Marine                     |
| 0313                                        | light armor vehicle crewman                    | light armor vehicle Marine                        |
| 0321                                        | reconnaissance man                             | reconnaissance Marine                             |
| 0323                                        | reconnaissance man parachute qualification     | reconnaissance Marine parachute qualification     |
| 0324                                        | reconnaissance man CMBT diver qualification    | reconnaissance Marine CMBT diver qualification    |
| 0326                                        | reconnaissance man parachute and combat diver  | reconnaissance Marine parachute and combat diver  |
| 0351                                        | infantry assaultman                            | infantry assault Marine                           |
| 0352                                        | antitank missleman                             | antitank missile gunner                           |
| 0800                                        | basic field artillery man                      | basic field artillery Marine                      |
| 0844                                        | field artillery fire control man               | field artillery fire control Marine               |
| 0847                                        | field artillery sensor support man             | field artillery sensor support Marine             |
| 0848                                        | field artillery operations man                 | field artillery operations chief                  |
| 0861                                        | fire support man                               | fire support Marine                               |
| 1300                                        | basic engineer, construction and equipment man | basic engineer, construction and equipment Marine |
| 1800                                        | basic tank and assault amphibious crewman      | basic tank and assault amphibious Marine          |
| 1812                                        | M1A1 tank crewman                              | armor Marine                                      |
| 1833                                        | assault amphibious vehicle (AAV) crewman       | assault amphibious vehicle (AAV) Marine           |
| expeditionary fighting vehicle (EFV) Marine | 1834                                           | expeditionary fighting vehicle (EFV) crewman      |
| (previously amphibious combat vehicle [ACV] |                                                |                                                   |
| crewman)                                    |                                                |                                                   |


Table 4 contains list of military occupational specialties (MOSs) of the 43XX (Public Affairs) and 46XX (Combat Camera) occupational fields (see Former MOS and Title column) that were merged into 45XX (Communication Strategy and Operations) occupational field (see Replacement MOS and Title column).


## Table 4. Occupational Fields And Military Occupational Specialty Replacements.

|                    |                                         | Former MOS and Specialty Title    | Replacement MOS and Specialty Title                 |
|--------------------|-----------------------------------------|-----------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------|
| 4302               | public affairs officer (O1-O5)          | 4502                              | communication strategy and operations officer (O1-  |
| O5)                |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
| 4602               | combat camera officer (W1-W5)           | 4503                              | visual information officer (W1-W5)                  |
| 4305               | communication strategist (AMOS) (O3-O5) | 4505                              | communication strategy and operations planner       |
| (AMOS) (O3-O5)     |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
| N/A                | None                                    | 4511                              | recruiting station marketing and communication      |
| marine (AMOS) (E5) |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
| 4512               | combat graphics specialist (E1-E5)      | 4612                              | combat camera production specialist (E1-            |
| E5)                |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
| 4341               | mass communicator (E1-E5)               | 4531                              | combat mass communicator (E1-E5)                    |
| 1                  |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
|                    |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
| 4641               | combat photographer (E1-E5)             | 4541                              | combat photographer (E1-E5)                         |
| 4671               | combat videographer (E1-E5)             | 4571                              | combat videographer (E1-E5)                         |
| 4341               | mass communicator (E6-E9)               | 4591                              | communication strategy and operations chief (E6-E9) |
| 4602               | combat camera officer (O3-O5)           |                                   |                                                     |
| 2                  |                                         |                                   |                                                     |
|                    | N/A                                     | See note 2.                       |                                                     |
| 4313               | broadcaster (AMOS) (E1-E9)              | N/A                               | See note 3.                                         |

Notes: 1Scheduled for FY20, the 45XX MOS producing school incorporates writing skills and communication fundamentals into entrylevel training for PMOSs 4512, 4541, and 4571. Therefore, in FY20, PMOS 4531 (combat mass communicator) structure and Marines convert to PMOSs 4512, 4541, or 4571. 2Combat camera LDOs (O3-O5) retain PMOS 4602 until they request re-designation or retire as PMOS 4602. LDO structure converts to visual information officer (W1-W5) structure in FY18. Selections to PMOS 4602 LDO will cease, starting FY18.

3AMOS 4313 (broadcaster) (E1-E9) does not convert to a 45XX AMOS, as the skill set is no longer required by the Marine Corps.

Legend AMOS     additional military occupational specialty                    LDO   limited duty officer FY            fiscal year                                                                   N/A    not applicable

## Section Ii. Terms And Definitions


Note: Notes in text are not part of the definition, they are explanatory in nature.


* Denotes either a change in the term or associated definition
or the insertion of a new term and definition.



## A


acquisitionThe process of locating a target with a search radar so that a tracking radar can take over and begin tracking the target.


acquisition planAn informal plan prepared by the development project officer, in coordination with other key project officers, to outline the recommended approach, major tasks to be accomplished and milestones necessary to develop and acquire the proposed system. This plan will reflect the Commandant of the Marine Corps' guidance contained in work directives as well as the Commanding General, Marine Corps Systems Command's implementing instructions.

activation orderAn order issued by a Marine Corps forces commander to activate a Marine airground task force for planning and/or operations. It contains the mission, troop list, date of activation for planning, date of activation for operations, designation of the Marine air-ground task force commander, command and control guidance, delegation of authority, command relationships, reporting instructions, administration instructions, special instructions, and deactivation instructions.


active layered defenseThe global integration of United States defense capabilities in the forward regions of the world, the global commons of space and cyberspace, the geographic approaches to United States territory, and within the United States.


adaptabilityThe capability to change tactics, techniques, or task-organizations rapidly and effectively in anticipation of or in response to changes in the situation.


addressee indicator groupAn address designator representing a predetermined list of specific and frequently recurring combination of action and/or information addressees. Also called AIG.


adjutantAn officer who performs the general duties of a special staff officer under the cognizance of the G-1/S-1 with respect to personnel administration and office management.


administrative deadlineServiceable items purposely deadlined by the unit to avoid unnecessary use when not required by the daily routine.


advanced baseA base located in or near an operational area whose primary mission is to support military operations. Also called AB.


advanced echelonA contingency support team deployed in advance of either the main contingency support element or contingency support group, to coordinate Air Mobility Command requirements at the arrival or departure airfield. The advanced echelon may deploy equipment to establish communications with Air Mobility Command command and control agencies and to establish the airlift operations center prior to the main contingency support element or group. Also called **ADVON**.


***advanced targeting forward-looking infrared**A multi-sensor targeting pod used on F/A-
18A/C/D/E/F and E/A-18G aircraft. Also called **ATFLIR**.


*advance party1. A task organization of designated personnel who form the nucleus of the arrival and assembly organizations whose primary tasks are to arrange for the reception of the main body and provide force protection. 2. During tactical missions, a team that reconnoiters, secures, and organizes an area prior to the main body's arrival and occupation.


adversary template(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A model that portrays the adversary's frontage depths, echelon spacing, and force composition as well as the disposition of adversary combat, combat support, and combat service support units for a given operation. It portrays how the adversary would like to fight if unconstrained by the operational environment.

aerial refuelingThe use of aerial tanker-configured aircraft to provide refueling service to helicopters, fixed-wing, and tiltrotor aircraft in flight. Aerial refueling extends the range, time on station, mobility, and flexibility of Marine air-ground task force aircraft. Also called AR.


afloat forward staging baseA modular, cost-effective, and capable commercial conversion solution that meets Marine Corps requirements for aviation, roll-on/roll-off, and dry cargo prepositioning, amphibious operations, command and control, communications system, medical, safety/survivability, and personnel accommodation. Also called **AFSB**.


after action reviewA traditional method for leaders to gather and share information in a unit
(after any operational or training event) about what went right, what did not go right, and why events proceeded as they did. After action reviews disseminate lessons learned in order to improve performance. Also called AAR.


ahkioA boat-like sled used for pulling equipment over snow.

aid station1. The unit level medical support capability organic to the battalion, regiment, squadron, or group that provides routine sick call, treatment, and emergency care. 2. The first medical treatment facility that can provide advanced trauma management to a battlefield casualty. It provides first level of triage evaluation of casualties and conducts routine sick call.


***aiming point**The precise point where the tip of the front sight post or rifle combat optic reticle pattern is placed in relationship to target.


air allocationThe translation of the air apportionment decision into total numbers of sorties by aircraft type available for each operation or task. See also air direction; Marine air command and control system.


air apportionmentSee DOD Dictionary for core definition. See also air direction; Marine air command and control system.


air assault(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Operations in which air assault forces (combat, combat support, and combat service support), using the firepower, mobility, and total integration of assault support assets in their ground or air roles, maneuver on the battlefield under the control of the mission commander to provide mobility and firepower of the assigned mission. See also air assault operation; Marine air assault task force.


air assault operation(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A military action in which combat forces and their equipment maneuver about the battlefield by helicopters or vertical-landed aircraft. See also air assault; Marine air assault task force.


air bossThe single point of contact at an air facility, responsible to the aviation combat element G-3, who coordinates all activities at an air facility and is the primary interface with the tactical air command center. The air boss is responsible for synchronizing the operations of fuel, ordnance, maintenance, and ground support activities to execute the missions tasked in the daily air tasking order (ATO). Additionally, the air boss is responsible for recommending changes to the ATO based on changes in the status of operations at the air facility and adjusting the operations at the air facility to meet changes in the ATO.

air combat intelligenceThat portion of the tactical air command center and aviation combat element commander's battlestaff responsible for the production of aviation-specific all-source intelligence and its dissemination throughout the tactical air command center. Also called ACI.


air control1. The authority to effect the maneuver of aircraft. 2. The authority to direct the physical maneuver of aircraft in flight or to direct an aircraft or surface-to-air weapon unit to engage a specific target. The elements of air control are air control agency, air controller, airspace control, operational control, positive control, procedural control, radar control, and terminal control. See also air control agency; air controller; airspace control; Marine air command and control system; operational control; positive control; procedural control; radar control; terminal control.


air control agencyAn organization possessing the capability to exercise air control. See also air control; **Marine air command and control system**.


air controllerAn individual especially trained for and assigned the duty of the control (by use of radio, radar, or other means) of such aircraft as may be allotted to the individual for operation within a specified area. See also air control; **Marine air command and control system**.


aircraft survivability equipmentEquipment designed to make aircraft less vulnerable in threat environments. This equipment provides the operator threat information and countermeasures that may be critical to survival via automatic or manual system operations. Also called ASE.


air direction1. The guidance and supervision that a commander employs to focus air resources on mission accomplishment. 2. The authority to regulate the employment of air resources (aircraft and surface-to-air weapon units) to maintain a balance between their availability and the priorities assigned for their usage. Air direction occurs as a sequence of the air apportionment, air allocation, tasking, and fragmentary order development. See also air apportionment; air allocation; tasking, fragmentary order; Marine air command and control system.


air logistic supportSupport by air landing or airdrop, including air supply, movement of personnel, evacuation of casualties and enemy prisoners of war, and recovery of equipment and vehicles.

air mission commanderA mission commander, who shall be a properly qualified naval aviator or naval flight officer, should be designated when separate aircraft formations, each led by its own formation leader, are required for a common support mission or whenever a formation of four or more aircraft must perform a multiple sortie mission. The mission commander shall direct a coordinated plan of action and shall be responsible for the effectiveness of the mission. Also called AMC.


air officerAn officer (aviator/naval flight officer) who functions as chief advisor to the commander on all aviation matters. An air officer is normally found at battalion level and higher within the ground combat element and within the Marine air-ground task force command element and logistics combat element headquarters staffs. The air officer is the senior member of the tactical air control party. The battalion air officer supervises the training and operation of the two battalion forward air control parties. Also called **AirO**.


air reconnaissance1. A directed effort to obtain detailed information concerning the terrain or enemy activity within a prescribed area such as a town, ridgeline, woods, or other features critical to operations. 2. The acquisition of information by employing visual observation and/or sensors in air vehicles. Air reconnaissance is one of the six Marine aviation functions. See also Marine aviation functions.


airspace control(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
A process that coordinates, integrates, and regulates the use of an airspace of defined proportions.

It does not include measures to approve, disapprove, deny, or delay air operations. See also air control; **Marine air command and control system**.


air support elementAn element task-organized by the Marine air support squadron to perform various air support control functions. Employment options can range from Marine expeditionary unit level operations characterized by limited assets and endurance to a multi-division operation where the air support element is almost if not identical in capability but set apart in responsibilities and subordinate to the direct air support center. The air support element can function as an extension of the Navy tactical air control center/amphibious air traffic control center, in conjunction with the battalion tactical air control party. Also called ASE.


air support liaison teamA team task-organized by the Marine air support squadron to maintain liaison between the direct air support center (DASC) and the fire support coordination center (FSCC). The air support liaison team is not a DASC, but may augment an echelon capability during displacement of the DASC. An air support liaison team may be used to provide a team to the senior FSCC when the DASC is not able to physically collocate with the FSCC because of mobility or communications requirements with other agencies and supporting aircraft. Also called **ASLT**.


air threat levelsThe conditions which relate to the enemy's air defense capability against airborne friendly aircraft. There are three levels of air threat:

a. lowAn air threat environment which permits combat operations and support to proceed
without prohibitive interference. Associated tactics and techniques do not normally require
extraordinary measures for preplanned or immediate support.

Note: Notes in text are not part of the definition, they are explanatory in nature.


b. mediumAn air threat environment in which the specific aircraft performance and weapons system capability allow acceptable exposure time to enemy air defenses. This air threat environment restricts the flexibility of tactics in the immediate target/objective area. It is an environment in which the enemy may have limited radar and/or electro-optical acquisition capability at medium ranges, but the air defense system is not supported by fully integrated fire control systems.
c. highAn air threat environment created by an opposing force possessing air defense combat power including integrated fire control systems and electronic warfare capabilities that would seriously diminish the ability of friendly forces to provide necessary air support. This air threat environment might preclude missions such as immediate close air support, as the requirement for effective radio communications and coordination may not be possible.


allowance itemsThe quantity of items of supply or equipment prescribed by Marine Corps tables of equipment or other authorized allowance publications.

alternate positionA position to be occupied when the primary position becomes untenable or unsuitable for carrying out its task. The alternate position is so located that the original task can be accomplished. See also **position; primary position; supplementary position**.

ambushA surprise attack by fire from concealed positions on a moving or temporarily halted enemy.

ammunition supply pointAn area designated to receive, store, reconfigure, and issue Class V
material. Also called ASP.


***amphibious assault direction system**Command and control system used to identify, track, and communicate with ships, landing craft, and amphibious assault vehicles from launch through recovery to support ship-to-shore movement. Also called **AADS**.


amphibious assault shipA ship designed to transport a battalion landing team and utilize vehicle assault techniques. These ships do not have the capability of launching and recovering amphibious assault vehicles. Also called LPH.


amphibious assault ship (general purpose)A ship capable of transporting approximately 1,900
troops with the helicopters, boats, and amphibious vehicles to land them. Also called LHA.


amphibious assault ship (multipurpose)A naval ship designed to embark, deploy, and land elements of a landing force in an assault by helicopters, landing craft, amphibious vehicles, and by combinations of these methods. The ship also has a convertible role allowing it to accommodate
20 AV-8B aircraft and 4 light airborne multipurpose system III helicopters, thereby, enabling the commander, amphibious task force to control the sea while projecting power ashore. Also called LHD.


amphibious cargo shipA naval ship designed or converted to transport combat loaded cargo in an assault landing. Capabilities as to carrying landing craft, speed of ship, armament, size of hatches, and booms are greater than those of comparable cargo type ships. Also called LKA.


amphibious operation landing categoriesPersonnel, equipment, and supplies that are subdivided into one of five categories based upon their importance to the operation and the times

they will be needed. The five categories are scheduled waves, on-call waves, nonscheduled units, prepositioned emergency supplies, and remaining landing force supplies. See also nonscheduled units; on-call waves; prepositioned emergency supplies; remaining landing force supplies;
scheduled waves.


amphibious support to other operationsA type of amphibious operation that contributes to conflict prevention or crisis mitigation. These may include operations such as security cooperation, foreign humanitarian assistance, civil support, noncombatant evacuations, peace operations, recovery operations, or disaster relief.


antiair warfareThat action required to destroy or reduce to an acceptable level the enemy air and missile threat. Antiair warfare integrates all offensive and defensive actions against enemy aircraft, surface-to-air weapons, and theater missiles into a singular, indivisible set of operations.

Antiair warfare is one of the six functions of Marine aviation. Also called AAW. See also Marine aviation functions.


anticipation1. In Marine Corps warfighting philosophy, the ability to foresee and take appropriate measures to deal with an enemy's move or likely response to a move of one's own. 2. To plan, prepare, and/or act in advance so as to prevent or forestall disadvantage for self or advantage by an adversary or enemy.


antipiracy operationAction to thwart an illegal act of violence, depredation (i.e., plundering, robbing, or pillaging), or detention in or over international waters committed for private ends by the crew or passengers of a private ship or aircraft against another ship or aircraft or against persons or property on board such ship or aircraft.


approach controlThe controlling authority within the Marine air traffic control squadron for all flights within the control area during instrument flight rule conditions.

approach marchAdvance of a combat unit when direct contact with the enemy is imminent.

Troops are fully or partially deployed. The approach march ends when ground contact with the enemy is made or when the attack position is occupied.


area assignmentAn assignment making one unit responsible for performing all engineer work in a designated area.


*area defenseA type of defense in which the bulk of the defending force is deployed on selected terrain. Principal reliance is placed on the ability of the defending forces to maintain their positions and to control the terrain between them. The reserve is used to add depth, to block, or restore the battle position by counterattack.

area reconnaissanceA directed effort to obtain detailed information concerning the terrain or enemy activity within a prescribed area such as a town, ridge line, woods, or other features critical to operations.


armed reconnaissanceA mission with the primary purpose of locating and attacking targets of opportunity (i.e., enemy material, personnel, and facilities) in assigned general areas or along assigned ground communications routes, and not for the purpose of attacking specific briefed targets. Also called AR.

arrival and assembly areaAn area identified by the designated commander, in coordination with the unified commander and host nation, for the arrival, offload, and assembly of forces, equipment, and supplies and preparations for subsequent operations. The arrival and assembly area is administrative in nature and does not denote command of a geographic area. Such an area may be inside an amphibious objective area. Within the arrival and assembly area, coordination authority for the following is implied for the designated commander: prioritization and use of airfield, port, and beach facilities and road networks; air traffic control; and logistic support activities. Also called AAA.


arrival and assembly operations elementA command and control agency in each Marine airground task force element and the Navy support element that coordinates the logistic functions of the offload of maritime prepositioning equipment and supplies and the arrival and assembly of forces in the unit assembly area. Also called **AAOE**.


arrival and assembly operations groupA staff agency composed of the Marine air-ground task force personnel and a liaison from the Navy support element to control the arrival and assembly operations. Also called **AAOG**.


assault positionThat position between the line of departure and the objective in an attack from which forces assault the objective. Ideally, it is the last covered and concealed position before reaching the objective (primarily used by dismounted infantry).


assault supportThe use of aircraft to provide tactical mobility and logistic support for the Marine air-ground task force, the movement of high priority cargo and personnel within the immediate area of operations, in-flight refueling, and the evacuation of personnel and cargo.

Assault support is one of the six functions of Marine aviation. See also **Marine aviation functions**.


assault support aircraftAn aircraft that moves assault troops, equipment, and cargo into an objective area and which provides support to the air assault forces.

assault support coordinator (airborne)An aviator who coordinates, from an aircraft, the movement of aviation assets during assault support operations. Also called **ASC(A)**.

assault support landing tableA planning document prepared jointly by the assault support and air assault force commanders that includes detailed plans for the movement of air assault troops, equipment, and supplies. It is the landing timetable for the assault support aircraft movement uniting scheduled units with numbered flights and waves and provides the basis for the assault support unit's flight schedule. It is used by the appropriate air control agency to control the assault support aircraft movement. Also called **ASLT.**

assault support requestThe method for requesting lifts of opportunity from operational area assault aircraft to move between camp and bases. The request usually requires 3 to 7 days advance planning and approval.


*assault support serial assignment tableSpecifies the troop units, supplies, and equipment to be loaded into each aircraft. It identifies each assault support aircraft by serial number with the wave number and aircraft position in the wave. Also called **ASSAT**.



assembly area1. An area in which a command is assembled preparatory to further action. 2. In a supply installation, the gross area used for collecting and combining components into complete units, kits, or assemblies. Also called AA.


*assess the populationTo evaluate the nature, situation, and attitudes of a designated population or elements of a population inhabiting the area of operations.


assured mobilityA frameworkof processes, actions, and capabilitiesthat assures the ability of a force to deploy, move, and maneuver where and when desired, without interruption or delay, to achieve the mission.


asymmetrical threatThe potential of attack from unconventional, unexpected, innovative, or disproportional means.


asymmetryUnconventional, unexpected, innovative, or disproportional means used to gain advantage over an adversary.

attackAn offensive action characterized by coordinated movement, supported by fire, conducted to defeat, destroy, or capture the enemy or seize and/or secure key terrain.


attack by fireFires (direct and indirect) in the physical domains and/or through the information environment to engage the enemy from a distance to destroy, fix, neutralize, or suppress.

attack guidance matrixA list of targets that can be attacked along with specifics such as when, how, and priority of attacks as well as desired effects on each attack. Also called AGM.


augmentation operationAn operation in which the Marine air-ground task force commander's immediate superior is a Marine expeditionary force, Service component, functional component, or task force (naval, amphibious, etc.) commander.

automatic riflemanA fire team member responsible for the effective employment of the automatic rifle and for the condition and care of the issued equipment.


aviation combat elementThe core element of a Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) that is task-organized to conduct aviation operations. The aviation combat element (ACE) provides all or a portion of the six functions of Marine aviation necessary to accomplish the MAGTF's mission.

These functions are antiair warfare, offensive air support, assault support, electronic warfare, air reconnaissance, and control of aircraft and missiles. The ACE is usually composed of an aviation unit headquarters and various other aviation units or their detachments. It can vary in size from a small aviation detachment of specifically required aircraft to one or more Marine aircraft wings. In a joint or multinational environment, the ACE may contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the MAGTF. The ACE itself is not a formal command. Also called ACE. See also command element; ground combat element; logistics combat element; Marine airground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force (forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine airground task force.

axis of advanceA line of advance assigned for purposes of control (often a road, group of roads, or a designated series of locations) extending in the direction of the enemy.

## B


back azimuthA reciprocal bearing. The reverse or backward direction of an azimuth (i.e., the azimuth plus or minus 180 degrees).


backblastThe rearward blast of gases and debris from recoilless weapons, rocket launchers, and certain antipersonnel mines, when initiated.

base of fireFire placed on an enemy force or position to reduce or eliminate the enemy's capability to interfere by fire and/or movement with friendly maneuver element(s). It may be provided by a single weapon or a grouping of weapons systems.

battle damage assessment(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The timely and accurate estimate of the damage resulting from the application of military force. Battle damage assessment estimates physical damage to a particular target, functional damage to that target, and the capability of the entire target system to continue its operations. Also called BDA.


battle drillA critical collective action or task performed by a platoon or smaller element without the application of a deliberate decision-making process, initiated on cue, accomplished with minimal leader orders, and performed to standard throughout like units.

battlefield coordination lineA fire support coordination measure, similar to a fire support coordination line, that facilitates the expeditious attack of targets with surface indirect fires and aviation fires between this measure and the fire support coordination line. To facilitate air delivered fires and deconflict air and surface fires, an airspace coordination area will always overlie the area between the battlefield coordination line and the fire support coordination line. The battlefield coordination line location is graphically portrayed on fire support maps, charts, and overlays by a solid black line with the letters "BCL" followed by the establishing headquarters in parentheses above the line and effective date-time group below the line. Also called BCL.


battle position1. In ground operations, a defensive location oriented on an enemy avenue of approach from which a unit may defend. 2. In air operations, an airspace coordination area containing firing points for attack helicopters. Also called BP. See also **firing position**.


battlesightThe predetermined sight setting in elevation and windage that will result in an intersection of the trajectory of the bullet and the line of sight at a range of 274 meters (300 yards).

*battlespace The environment, factors, and conditions that must be understood to successfully apply combat power, protect the force, and/or complete the mission. It includes the physical environment (air, land, maritime, and space domains); the information environment (which includes cyberspace); the electromagnetic spectrum; and other factors. Included within these are friendly, enemy, adversary, and neutral entities contained within or having an effect on the operational areas, areas of interest, and areas of influence.


battlespace dominanceThe degree of control over the dimensions of the battlespace that enhances friendly freedom of action and denies enemy freedom of action. It permits force sustainment and application of power projection to accomplish the full range of potential operational and tactical missions. It includes all actions conducted against enemy capabilities to influence future operations.


battlespace geometryA dynamic, multifaceted, and multidimensional environment in which military operations occur. It is determined by such factors as intelligence preparation of the battlespace, time, sustainment, command relationships, boundaries, fire support coordination measures, rules of engagement, and political considerations that could affect operations. Also called BSG.


beach party teamThe Navy support element component of the shore party team commanded by a Navy officer. The beach party team provides Navy functions such as lighterage salvage and repair. In addition, as a component of the debark control unit for a maritime prepositioning force operation, it is responsible to control lighterage in the surf zone and transfer bulk liquids from the maritime prepositioning ship(s). Also called BPT.


be prepared missionA mission, assigned to a unit, that might be executed.


block1. To deny the enemy access to an area or prevent enemy advance in a direction or along an avenue of approach. It may be for a specified time. 2. An obstacle effect that integrates fire planning and obstacle effort to stop an attacker along a specific avenue of approach or to prevent an attacker from passing through an engagement area.


***blue kill box**A fire support and airspace coordination measure used to facilitate the attack of surface targets with air-to-surface munitions without further coordination with the establishing headquarters. Also called BKB. See also **purple kill box**.


bona fides(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Documents, information, action, codes, etc., offered by an unknown or otherwise suspected individual in order to establish the individual's good faith, identification, dependability, truthfulness, and motivation.


bounding overwatchA movement technique used when contact with enemy forces is expected.

The unit moves by bounds. One element is always halted in position to overwatch another element while it moves. The overwatching element is positioned to support the moving unit by fire or fire and movement. See also **overwatch; traveling overwatch.**

breachTo break through or secure a passage through an obstacle.


breaching operationAn operation conducted to allow maneuver despite the presence of obstacles. It is a synchronized combined arms operation under the control of the maneuver commander. Breaching operations begin when friendly forces detect an obstacle and begin to apply breaching fundamentals, and they end when battle handover has occurred between follow-on forces and a unit conducting the breaching operation.


breakoutAn operation conducted by an encircled force to regain freedom of movement or contact with friendly units. It differs from other attacks only in that a simultaneous defense in other areas of the perimeter must be maintained.

bridge companyA unit whose mission is to provide and maintain fixed panel bridge and floating bridge equipage to support the heaviest loads of the Fleet Marine Force and to provide technical supervision for the construction of these bridges.


bridgeheadAn area of ground held or to be gained on the enemy's side of an obstacle.

bridgehead forceA force that assaults across a gap to secure the enemy side (the bridgehead) to allow the buildup and passage of a breakout force during gap-crossing operations.

bridgehead lineThe limit of the objective area in the development of the bridgehead.


build/restore infrastructureTo construct, rebuild, or repair local infrastructure (roads, bridges, power/sewage plants, etc.), usually following a natural disaster or after major operations are complete.

bulk fuel companyA unit that performs all functions incident to the supply of class III and class III(A) products to elements of a Marine air-ground task force (to include distribution to, but not within, air bases during an amphibious assault and subsequent operations ashore) to ensure that class III(A) products distributed to supported air elements are of the required type, quality, and purity.

bypass1. To maneuver around an obstacle, position, or enemy force to maintain the momentum of advance. Previously unreported obstacles and bypassed enemy forces are reported to higher headquarters. 2. To maneuver around an obstacle, position, or enemy force to maintain the momentum of the operation while deliberately avoiding combat with an enemy force.

## C


call forward area1. In gap-crossing operations, waiting areas within the crossing area where final preparations are made. 2. The area at the departure airfield where plane loads are assembled in a ready condition prior to being directed to the loading ramp area. The joint inspection is conducted in this area.

canalize(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) To restrict enemy movement to a narrow zone by the use of existing or reinforcing obstacles, fires, or friendly maneuver.


capabilityThe ability to execute a specified course of action. (A capability may or may not be accompanied by an intention.)
capableThe ability to accomplish a mission, task, function, or subfunction.


cargo load allowance listAn approved listing of ordnance carried as cargo for underway replenishment to other Fleet units in support of their assigned mission. Underway replenishment ships would have this type of list in addition to their own shipfill allowance.

*casualty collectionThe assembly of casualties at collection and treatment sites. It includes protection from further injury while awaiting evacuation to the next level of care. Planning for casualty collection points must include site selection and staffing.


*casualty evacuation(See the DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The movement of the sick, wounded, or injured that begins at the point of injury or the onset of disease and includes movement both to and between medical treatment facilities. (Note:
All units have an evacuation capability. Any vehicle may be used to evacuate casualties. If a medical vehicle is not used it should be replaced with one at the first opportunity. Similarly, aeromedical evacuation should replace surface evacuation at the first opportunity.) Also called CASEVAC.


casualty treatmentTreatment that includes triage and all levels of care from self-aid or buddyaid through resuscitative care.


center of gravity(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A key source of strength without which an enemy cannot function. Also called **COG.**

centralized control(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) In military operations, a mode of battlespace management in which one echelon of command exercises total authority and direction of all aspects of one or more warfighting functions. It is a method of control where detailed orders are issued and total unity of action is the overriding consideration. See also **decentralized control**.


checkpointA predetermined point on the ground used to control movement, tactical maneuver, and orientation.


chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear passive defenseMeasures taken to prevent, minimize, or negate the vulnerability to, and effects of, chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear threats and hazards. Also called CBRN passive defense.


chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear protectionMeasures taken to keep chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats and hazards from having an adverse effect on personnel, equipment, and facilities. Also called CBRN protection.


circular error probableAn indicator of the delivery accuracy of a weapon system, used as a factor in determining probable damage to a target. It is the radius of a circle within which half of a missile's projectiles are expected to fall. Also called CEP.


civil information management(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Process whereby civil information is collected, entered into a central database, and internally fused with the supported element, higher headquarters, other United States Government and Department of Defense agencies, international organizations, and nongovernmental organizations to ensure the timely availability of information for analysis and the widest possible dissemination of the raw and analyzed civil information to military and nonmilitary partners throughout the area of operations. Also called CIM.


classes of supply(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
The ten categories into which supplies are grouped in order to facilitate supply management and planning.

a. Class ISubsistence, which includes gratuitous health and welfare items and rations.

b. Class IIClothing, individual equipment, tentage, organizational tool sets and tool kits, hand tools, administrative and housekeeping supplies, and equipment.

c. Class IIIPetroleum, oils, and lubricants, which consists of petroleum fuels, lubricants, hydraulic and insulating oils, liquid and compressed gases, bulk chemical products, coolants, deicing and antifreeze compounds, preservatives together with components and additives of such products, and coal.

d. Class IVConstruction, which includes all construction material; installed equipment; and all fortification, barrier, and bridging materials.

e. Class VAmmunition of all types, which includes, but is not limited to, chemical, radiological, special weapons, bombs, explosives, mines, detonators, pyrotechnics, missiles, rockets, propellants, and fuzes.

Class V(A)
Aviation ammunition Class V(W)
Ground ammunition f. Class VIPersonal demand items or nonmilitary sales items.
g. Class VIIMajor end items, which are the combination of end products assembled and configured in their intended form and ready for use (e.g., launchers, tanks, mobile machine shops, vehicles).
h. Class VIIIMedical/dental material, which includes medical-unique repair parts, blood and blood products, and medical and dental material.
i. Class IXRepair parts (less Class VIII), including components, kits, assemblies, and subassemblies (reparable and nonreparable), required for maintenance support of all equipment.
j. Class XMaterial to support nonmilitary requirements and programs that are not included in classes I through IX. For example, materials needed for agricultural and economic development.


classification, identification, and engagement areaIn maritime operations, the area within the surveillance area and surrounding the vital area(s) in which all objects detected must be classified, identified, and monitored; and the capability maintained to escort, cover, or engage. Also called CIEA.


clear1. To remove enemy forces and eliminate organized resistance in an assigned zone, area, or location by destroying, capturing, or forcing the withdrawal of enemy forces that could interfere with the unit's ability to accomplish its mission. 2. To eliminate transmissions on a tactical radio net in order to allow a higher-precedence transmission to occur. 3. In mobility operations, the total elimination or neutralization of an obstacle that is usually performed by follow-on engineers and is not done under fire.

close operationsMilitary actions conducted to project power decisively against enemy forces that pose an immediate or near-term threat to the success of current battles or engagements. These military actions are conducted by committed forces and their readily available tactical reserves, using maneuver and combined arms. See also **deep operations; rear operations**.


close reconnaissanceGround reconnaissance and surveillance conducted in the area extending forward of the forward edge of the battle area. It is directed toward determining the location,

composition, disposition, capabilities, and activities of enemy committed forces and is primarily conducted by elements of combat units.


collection(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The gathering of intelligence data and information to satisfy the identified requirements.


collection pointA point designated for the assembly of casualties, stragglers, not operationally ready equipment and materiel, salvage, prisoners, and so on for treatment, classification, sorting, repair, or further movement to collecting stations or rear facilities and installations.

collection requirement(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An established intelligence need considered in the allocation of intelligence resources to fulfill the priority intelligence requirements and other intelligence needs of a commander.

combat active replacement factorThe percentages of Fleet Marine Force initial issue quantities used to provide replacement of losses/consumption during combat action.


combat and operational stress(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The expected and predictable emotional, intellectual, physical, and/or behavioral reactions of Service members who have been exposed to stressful events in combat or noncombat military operations. Combat stress reactions vary in quality and severity as a function of operational conditions, such as intensity, duration, rules of engagement, leadership, effective communication, unit morale, unit cohesion, and perceived importance of the mission. Also called COS.


combat assessment boardA board formed within the tactical air command center designed: 1)
to provide recommended process improvements in tactics, techniques, procedures, ordnance, countermeasures equipment/expendables, etc.; 2) to share its outputs with all other units in the joint/combined effort through the operational chain of command; and 3) to stimulate government labs, industry, and the procurement process into developing rapid solutions to real/critical problems.

combat baseA unit or multiunit position with a definite perimeter from which operations are projected or supported.


*combat camera (COMCAM)Replaced by communication strategy and operations
(COMMSTRAT).

combat dataData derived from reporting by operational units.


combat loadThe minimum mission-essential equipment, as determined by the commander responsible for carrying out the mission, required for Marines to fight and survive immediate combat operations.


combat logistics battalionThe task-organized logistics combat element of the Marine expeditionary unit. Personnel and equipment are assigned from the permanent battalions of the Marine logistics group. As required, it may be augmented by combat service support assets from the Marine division or Marine aircraft wing. Also called CLB.

combat logistics forceA force that includes both active Navy ships and those operated by the Military Sealift Command within the Naval Fleet Auxiliary Force that carry a broad range of stores, including fuel, food, repair parts, ammunition, and other essential materiel to keep naval forces operating at sea for extended periods.


combat multipliersSupporting and subsidiary means that significantly increase the relative combat strength (power) of a force while actual force ratios remain constant.


combat operations centerThe primary operational agency required to control the tactical operations of a command that employs ground and aviation combat, combat support, and logistics combat elements or portions thereof. The combat operations center continually monitors, records, and supervises operations in the name of the commander and includes the necessary personnel and communications to do the same. Also called COC.

*combat outpost1. A security force established at the regimental level during defensive or stationary operations. 2. A reinforced observation post that can conduct limited combat, stability or other operations. Also called COP.


combat patrolA tactical unit that is sent out from the main body to engage in independent fighting. It may be to provide security or to harass, destroy, or capture enemy troops, equipment, or installations. Operations include raids, ambushes, and security missions.


combat service support area(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The primary combat service support installation established to support Marine air-ground task force operations ashore. Normally located near a beach, port, and/or an airfield, it usually contains the command post of the logistics combat element commander and supports other combat service support installations. Also called **CSSA**.

combat stressChanges in physical or mental functioning or behavior resulting from the experience of lethal force or its aftermath. These changes can be positive and adaptive or they can be negative, including distress or loss of normal functioning.

combined arms1. The full integration of combat arms in such a way that to counteract one, the enemy must become more vulnerable to another. 2. The tactics, techniques, and procedures employed by a force to integrate firepower and mobility to produce a desired effect upon the enemy.

*command and control(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The means by which a commander recognizes what needs to be done and sees to it that appropriate actions are taken. Command and control is one of the seven warfighting functions. Also called C2. See also **warfighting functions**.


command and control aircraftA tactical mission aircraft for the use of the assault support coordinator (airborne) and air assault force commander to coordinate and control tactical air assaults, troop movement, commander's reconnaissance, and other related missions. Also called C2 aircraft.

command elementThe core element of a Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) that is the headquarters. The command element is composed of the commander, general or executive and special staff sections, headquarters section, and requisite communications support, intelligence, and reconnaissance forces, necessary to accomplish the MAGTF's mission. The command element provides command and control, intelligence, and other support essential for effective planning and execution of operations by the other elements of the MAGTF. The command element varies in size and composition; and, in a joint or multinational environment, it may contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the MAGTF. Also called CE. See also aviation combat element; ground combat element; logistics combat element; Marine air-ground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force (forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground task force.

commanderOne who is properly appointed to command an organization, or who under applicable provisions of laws, regulations, or orders succeeds to such command due to transfer, incapacity, death, or absence of the previous commanding officer. Marine Corps commanders are titled as commandant, commander, commanding general, commanding officer, or inspectorinstructor. Other titles used to designate Marine Corps commanders shall be made only with the specific approval of the Commandant of the Marine Corps. The titles officer in charge and noncommissioned officer in charge do not normally denote a commander. However, in specific instances, superiors in the chain of command may delegate command authority to officers in charge or noncommissioned officers in charge to the extent required for them to carry out their assigned tasks.

commander's critical information requirement(See DOD Dictionary for core definition.

Marine Corps amplification follows.) Information regarding the enemy and friendly activities and the environment identified by the commander as critical to maintaining situational awareness, planning future activities, and facilitating timely decision-making. The two subcategories are priority intelligence requirements and friendly force information requirements. Also called **CCIR**.


commander's intent(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A commander's clear, concise articulation of the purpose(s) behind one or more tasks assigned to a subordinate. It is one of two parts of every mission statement that guides the exercise of initiative in the absence of instructions.


commander's planning guidanceDirections and/or instructions that focus the staff's course of action development during the planning process. Also called CPG.


command postA unit's or subunit's headquarters where the commander or designated representative and the staff perform their activities. Also called CP. See also forward command post.

command religious programThe comprehensive program of religious ministry that is planned, programmed, budgeted, and implemented to meet identified religious ministry requirements of a command. Also called **CRP.**

***common aviation command and control system**A Marine Corps command and control system that consolidates existing functions of legacy command and control systems into a single platform capable of performing various functions with a common suite of equipment and software applications. Also called **CAC2S**.


common tactical picture(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) 1. Consists of friendly position location information, known and suspected enemy locations,

and graphical map overlays depicting information such as fire support coordination and tactical control measures. 2. The current depiction of the battlespace, including current, anticipated, or projected and planned disposition of hostile, neutral, and friendly forces. Also called CTP.


communications-electronics operating instructionsAn instruction containing details on call sign assignments, frequency assignments, codes and ciphers, and authentication tables and their use. The communications-electronics operating instructions are designated to complement information contained in operational unit communication standing operating procedures or Annex K (Combat Information Systems) to the operation order. The most common version in use by the Marine Corps is the automated communications-electronics operating instructions produced by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Also called **CEOI**.


company teamA combined arms organization formed by attaching one or more nonorganic tank, mechanized infantry, or light infantry platoons to a tank, mechanized infantry, or light infantry company either in exchange for or in addition to organic platoons.


complex systemA functionally-related group of elements, composed of multiple parts, each of which may act individually according to its own circumstances and, by so acting, change the circumstances affecting some or all of the other parts or elements.

concealmentThe protection from observation or surveillance.


cone of fireThe pattern formed on the way to the target by several rounds fired in a burst.


connecting elementsFiles or groups that are used to maintain contact between the units of the command.

constraint(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Something that must be done that limits freedom of action. Constraints are included in the rules of engagement, commander's guidance, or instructions from higher headquarters. See also **restraint.**

***consumable supplies**An item of supply (except explosive ordnance) that is normally expended or used beyond recovery in the use for which it is designed or intended. Consumables are accounted for until issued to the end-item or debriefed to the requirement (not simply issues to end-user).


***consumer inventory**A level of retail inventory usually of limited range and depth, held by the final element in an established supply chain distribution system for the sole purpose of internal support or use. A consumer inventory is independent of echelon of command and can exist at the strategic, operational, or tactical level. See also intermediate inventory, retail inventory, wholesale inventory.


***contact of interest**In surface warfare, a naval combatant or unknown surface contact operating in a designated area whose presence may have tactical significance but should have no real impact on mission completion. Also called COI.


contact patrolsThose combat patrols that establish and/or maintain contact to the front, flanks, or rear by contacting friendly forces at designated points; establishing contact with a friendly or enemy force when the definite location of the force is unknown; and maintaining contact with friendly or enemy forces.

contain1. To stop, hold, or surround enemy forces or to cause the enemy to center activity on a
given front and to prevent the withdrawal of any part of the enemy's forces for use elsewhere. 2.
To prevent or halt elements of a population or designated party from departing or projecting physical influence beyond a defined area.

contamination control areaAn area where personnel can store selected equipment for reuse and
safely don/doff contaminated chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear clothing and
equipment in a positive airflow environment using appropriate ground operating procedures.
contiguous area of operationsAn area of operations in which all of a commander's subordinate
forces' areas of operations share one or more common boundary.
contract feedingA method of feeding in which a contractor (inside or outside the continental
United States) or host nation government prepares individual meals outside the Service's mess hall.
contract religious ministry professionalA civilian religious ministry professional endorsed by
a specific Department of Defense-listed religious organization and contracted on a non-personal
services basis using competitive procedures. Also called CRMP.

control(See DOD Dictionary, control [part 3], for core definition. Marine Corps amplification
follows.) To maintain physical influence by occupation or range of weapon systems over the activities or access in a defined area.
control of aircraft and missilesThe coordinated employment of facilities, equipment,
communications, procedures, and personnel that allows the aviation combat element commander to plan, direct, and control the efforts of the aviation combat element to support the accomplishment of the Marine air-ground task force mission. Control of aircraft and missiles is one of the six
functions of Marine aviation. See also **Marine aviation functions**.

converging axes attackA type of tank-infantry attack where the tank infantry team approaches
a common objective on two different axes.

Cooperation Afloat Readiness and TrainingAn annual series of bilateral military exercises between the United States and various Southeast Asia nations. Also called **CARAT**.

coordinate with civil authoritiesTo harmonize military activities with those of other
(nonmilitary) government agencies, nongovernmental organizations, and national or local host nation government entities in order to achieve unity of effort and facilitate meeting objectives.
coordinationThe action necessary to ensure adequately integrated relationships between
separate organizations located in the same area. Coordination may include such matters as fire support, emergency defense measures, area intelligence, and other situations in which coordination is considered necessary.
cordonTo prevent withdrawal from or reinforcement to a position.

corruptTo change, debase, or otherwise alter information from its original or correct form or
version by intentionally introducing errors or alterations, thereby rendering it useless.
counterattackAn attack by part or all of a defending force against an enemy attacking force, for such specific purposes as regaining ground lost or cutting off or destroying enemy advance units, and with the general objective of denying to the enemy the attainment of the enemy's purpose in attacking. In sustained defensive operations, it is undertaken to restore the battle position and is directed at limited objectives.


counterintelligence(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The active and passive measures intended to deny the enemy valuable information about the friendly situation, to detect and neutralize hostile intelligence collection, and to deceive the enemy as to friendly capabilities and intentions. Also called CI.


counterintelligence force protection source operationsCollection activities conducted by counterintelligence personnel to provide force protection support. These operations respond to local command requirements for force protection and do not fall within the purview of Director of Central Intelligence Directive 5/1. Also called **CFSO**.


countermobility operations(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Those combined arms activities that use or enhance the effects of natural and man-made obstacles to deny enemy freedom of movement and maneuver.


counterpiracy operationAction taken in response to an illegal act of violence, depredation (i.e., plundering, robbing, or pillaging), or detention in or over international waters committed for private ends by the crew or passengers of a private ship or aircraft against another ship or aircraft or against persons or property on board such ship or aircraft.

counterreconnaissanceAll measures taken to prevent hostile observation of a force, area, or place.

cover1. A type of security operation that protects the force from surprise, develops the situation, and gives commanders time and space in which to respond to the enemy's actions. 2. A form of security operation whose primary task is to protect the main body by fighting to gain time while also observing and reporting information and preventing enemy ground observation of and direct fire against the main body. 3. Offensive or defensive actions to protect the force.
4. Protection from the effects of direct and indirect fire. It can be provided by ditches, caves, river banks, folds in the ground, shell craters, buildings, walls, and embankments.

*covering force1. A force operating apart from the main force for the purpose of intercepting, engaging, delaying, disorganizing, and deceiving the enemy before the enemy can attack the force covered. 2. Any body or detachment of troops which provides security for a larger force by observation, reconnaissance, attack, or defense, or by any combination of these methods. 3. A selfcontained maneuver force that operates beyond the range of friendly artillery positioned with the main force. To operate independently, a covering force may task-organize to include aviation, artillery, tank, reconnaissance, and combat service support.

covert crossingThe crossing of an inland water obstacle or other gap that is planned and intended to be executed without detection by an enemy or adversary.


crater analysisExamination of a shell crater with the purpose of determining the line of flight of the projectile to establish its probable launch point.

***criminal intelligence**A category of police intelligence derived from the collection, analysis, and interpretation of all available information concerning known and potential criminal threats and vulnerabilities of supported organizations.


critical thinkingPurposeful and reflective judgment about what to believe or what to do in response to observations, experience, verbal or written expressions, or arguments.


critical vulnerability(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An aspect of a center of gravity that, if exploited, will do the most significant damage to an enemy's and/or adversary's ability to resist. A vulnerability cannot be critical unless it undermines a key strength. Also called CV.


cross-attachmentThe exchange of subordinate units between units for a temporary period.


cross-compartmentA linear movement in which a unit travels in a generally straight path regardless of terrain features.


cross-cultural competenceThe ability to quickly and accurately comprehend, then appropriately and effectively act, to create the desired effect in a culturally complex environment.


crossover zoneWeapons systems making engagements in this zone will normally be under positive control of the tactical air operations center, early warning/control, or airborne early warning aircraft. Also called **crossover point; COZ**.


cueingExternal actions or inputs that cause a surveillance or target acquisition device to turn on and search a suspect area.

current intelligence1. One of two categories of descriptive intelligence that is concerned with describing the existing situation. 2. Intelligence of all types and forms of immediate interest that is usually disseminated without the delays necessary to complete evaluation or interpretation. See also **descriptive intelligence**.

current operations section1. In Marine air-ground task force operations, a section normally under the staff cognizance of the G-3 that receives the operation order from the operational planning team at the transition briefing and exercises staff cognizance over the execution of the operation order from the combat operations center. 2. In Marine aviation, that portion of the tactical air command center and aviation combat element commander's battlestaff that is responsible for the supervision and direction of all current Marine air-ground task force air operations. The current operations section supervises and directs the execution of the current air tasking order. Also called COS. See also **future operations section; operational planning team.**

cut lineIn targeting, a list of prioritized targets most likely to be attacked based on available air capabilities and the ability to affect the targets on the list.


## D


data aggregationInformation collected from multiple sources and pieced together to form a bigger picture.


datumAny numerical or geometrical quantity or set of such quantities that may serve as reference or base for other quantities. Where the concept is geometric, the plural form is "datums" in contrast to the normal plural "data."

day(s) of ammunitionUnit of measurement of replenishing ammunition expressed as a specified number of rounds, or items of bulk ammunition as may be appropriate per weapon, unit, individual kit, set, or using device required for one day of combat. Also called DOA.


*deadlineTo remove a vehicle or piece of equipment from operations or use for one of the following reasons: a. is inoperative due to damage, malfunctioning, or necessary repairs; b. is unsafe; and c. would be damaged by further use. Deadline does not include items temporarily removed from use by reason of routine maintenance, and repairs that do not affect the combat capability of the item.


deadly forceForce likely to cause death or serious physical injury.


debarkation officerThe senior naval officer on each ship responsible to the offload control officer for the efficient offload of that ship's maritime prepositioned equipment and supplies. The debarkation officer coordinates the Navy cargo handling detachment, Marine air-ground task force debark team, ship's crew, and assigned lighterage control team.

debarkation teamA task organization comprising a Navy cargo handling force and Marine airground task force personnel provided to the offload control officer for each ship of the maritime prepositioning ships squadron for debarkation. This team consists of cargo handling, maintenance, and vehicle equipment operators from the offload preparation party and advance party.

debriefingInterviewing of an individual who has completed an intelligence or reconnaissance assignment or who has knowledge, whether through observation, participation, or otherwise, of operational or intelligence significance.


d**eceive**To manipulate an enemy into believing and acting upon something that is not true for a selected period of time and/or at a particular location to create a friendly advantage.


decentralized control(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) In military operations, a mode of battlespace management in which a command echelon may delegate some or all authority and direction for warfighting functions to subordinates. It requires careful and clear articulation of mission, intent, and main effort to unify efforts of subordinate leaders. See also **centralized control**.


deception operationA military operation conducted to mislead the enemy. A unit conducting a deception operation may or may not make contact with the enemy. Deception operations include demonstrations, diversions, displays, feints, ruses, actions, events, means, and objectives.


decision point(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
An event, area, or point in the battlespace where and when the friendly commander will make a critical decision.


decision support template(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A staff product initially used in the wargaming process that graphically represents the decision points and projected situations and indicates when, where, and under what conditions a decision is most likely to be required to initiate a specific activity (such as a branch or sequel) or event (such as lifting or shifting of fires). Also called DST.


decisive actionAny action the commander deems fundamental to achieving mission success. See also **shaping action; sustaining action.** (Note: Decisive actions are part of a purpose-based battlespace framework.)

decisive forceCombat power applied that results in the conclusive imposition of will on an enemy.

deconflictTo coordinate the movements of aircraft and/or airborne weapon systems to reduce the risk of collision.


deep air supportAir action against enemy targets at such a distance from friendly forces that detailed integration of each mission with fire and movement of friendly forces is not required. Deep air support missions are flown on either side of the fire support coordination line; the lack of a requirement for close coordination with the fire and movement of friendly forces is the qualifying factor. Also called DAS. (Note: The acronym DAS stands for deep air support and not direct air support.)

deep operationsMilitary actions conducted against enemy capabilities that pose a potential threat to friendly forces. These military actions are designed to isolate, shape, and dominate the battlespace and influence future operations. See also **close operations; rear operations**.


deep reconnaissanceGround reconnaissance and surveillance conducted in the commander, landing force's area of interest. It is directed toward determining the location, composition, disposition, and movement of enemy reinforcement.


defeatTo disrupt or nullify the enemy commander's plan and overcome the will to fight, thus making the enemy commander unwilling or unable to pursue the adopted course of action and yield to the friendly commander's will.

***defeat in detail**Concentrating overwhelming combat power against separate parts of a force rather than defeating the entire force at once.


defeat the deviceThose technology approaches and tactics, techniques, and procedures that result in the detection, neutralization, or mitigation of improvised explosive device effects. Also called DtD.


defenseA coordinated effort by a force to defeat an attack by an opposing force and prevent it from achieving its objectives.

defense in depthThe siting of mutually supporting defense positions designed to absorb and progressively weaken an attack, prevent initial observations of the whole position by the enemy, and to allow the commander to maneuver the reserve.


defensive operationsOperations conducted to defeat an enemy attack, gain time, economize forces, and develop conditions favorable to offensive and stability operations. The three types of defensive operations are area, mobile, and retrograde.


defensive sectorA section assigned to a subordinate commander in which the commander is provided the maximum latitude to accomplish assigned tasks in order to conduct defensive operations.

deficiencyA shortfall between the requirements of a mission, task, function, or subfunction and the capability to satisfy these.

defilade fire1. Fire delivered on a target in such a manner that the range pattern of the fall of shot generally aligns with the short axis of the target. 2. Fire delivered at a rate intentionally less than sustained to permit adjustment corrections, meet specific tactical requirements, or conserve ammunition. See also **enfilade fire**.


degradeTo diminish the effectiveness or efficiency of an enemy's command and control systems, communications systems, and/or information collection efforts or means; lower the morale of an enemy unit; reduce a target's worth or value; and/or impair an enemy's decisionmaking capability.

delayA form of retrograde in which a force under pressure trades space for time by slowing the enemy's momentum and inflicting maximum damage on the enemy without, in principle, becoming decisively engaged.


***delay line**A specified line forward of which a force must slow the enemy, to include becoming decisively engaged, for a specified time or until a specified event.


deliberate attackA fully coordinated operation that is conducted when preparation time is available for lengthy reconnaissance, precise planning, and rehearsals. Deliberate attacks normally include large volumes of supporting fires, main and supporting attacks, and deception measures.


deliberate breach1. The creation of a lane through a minefield or a clear route through a barrier or fortification that is systematically planned and carried out. 2. Used against a strong defense or complex obstacle system. In tank employment operations, it is also called an assault breach.


deliberate crossingThe crossing of an inland water obstacle that requires extensive planning and detailed preparations.


deliberate defenseA defense normally organized when out of contact with the enemy or when contact with the enemy is not imminent and time for organization is available.


deliberate targetingThe methodical identification, compilation, and analysis of potential fixed or semifixed targets followed by the decision of which potential targets will be attacked, when, and/or by what weapon and ordnance. It is practiced primarily during the planning phase of an operation, when planning for an attack, or when the tempo of combat is slow.

demonstration(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Operation designed to divert enemy attention, allowing the forces of a Marine air-ground task force to execute decisive action elsewhere. It is a show of force that threatens an attack at another location but does not make contact with the enemy.


*deny(See DOD Dictionary, **denial measure**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) To hinder or prevent the enemy from using terrain, space, personnel, supplies, facilities, and/or specific capabilities.


deployment(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The relocation of forces and materiel to desired areas of operations.

depot-level maintenanceMaintenance actions taken on materiel or software involving the inspection, repair, overhaul, or the modification or reclamation (as necessary) of weapons systems, equipment end items, parts, components, assemblies, and subassemblies that are beyond field-level maintenance capabilities.


descriptive intelligenceClass of intelligence that describes existing and previously existing conditions with the intent to promote situational awareness. Descriptive intelligence has two components: basic intelligence, which is general background knowledge about established and relatively constant conditions; and current intelligence, which is concerned with describing the existing situation. See also **estimative intelligence**.


designThe conception and articulation of a framework for solving a problem.


destroy1. To physically render an enemy force combat ineffective unless it can be reconstituted.

2. In the context of defeat mechanisms, to apply lethal combat power on an enemy capability so that it can no longer perform any function and cannot be restored to a usable condition without being entirely rebuilt.

detachment1. A part of a unit separated from its main organization for duty elsewhere. 2. A
temporary military or naval unit formed from other units or parts of units. Also called Det.


direct air supportAir support flown in direct response to a specific request from the supported unit.

***direct air support center**The principal air control agency of the United States Marine Corps air command and control system responsible for the direction and control of air operations directly supporting the ground combat element. Also called **DASC**. See also Marine air command and control system; tactical air operations center.


directed netA net in which no station other than the net control station can communicate with any other station, except for the transmission of urgent messages, without first obtaining the permission of the net control station.

disengageTo break contact with the enemy and move to a point where the enemy cannot observe nor engage the unit by direct fire.


*displaceTo leave one position and take another while remaining in contact with the enemy.

Forces may be displaced laterally to concentrate combat power in threatened areas.

disrupt1. To integrate fires and obstacles to break apart an enemy's formation and tempo, interrupt the enemy's timetable, or cause premature commitment or the piecemealing of enemy forces. 2. To preclude efficient interaction of enemy combat or combat support systems.

disseminationConveyance of intelligence to users in a suitable form.

dissemination managementThe establishment of dissemination priorities, selection of dissemination means, and monitoring the flow of intelligence throughout the command. The objective of dissemination management is to deliver the required intelligence to the appropriate user in the proper form at the right time while ensuring that individual consumers and the dissemination system are not overloaded with unneeded or irrelevant information. Dissemination management also provides for use of security controls that do not impede the timely delivery or subsequent use of intelligence while protecting intelligence sources and methods.


distant reconnaissanceGround reconnaissance and surveillance conducted in the far portion of the commander, landing force's area of influence. It is directed toward determining the location, composition, disposition, and movement of supporting arms and the reserve elements of the enemy committed forces.


distributed operationsIn ground operations, subordinate units are separated by distance and/or time, usually beyond mutually supporting range, to better support the achievement of an objective and mission accomplishment. These operations require coherent planning and decentralized execution due to the separation of the units.

divine servicesPublic worship conducted afloat, in the field, or on military bases and installations by a military chaplain pursuant to the chaplain's official duties in accordance with Section 6031 of Title 10, United States Code, and Article 0817 of U.S. Navy Regulations, 1990.


doctrineFundamental principles by which the Marine Corps forces or elements thereof guide their actions across the range of military operations in support of national objectives. It is authoritative but requires judgment in application.


double envelopmentAn offensive maneuver designed to force the enemy to fight in two or more directions simultaneously to meet the converging axis of the attack.

## E


economy of force(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
The allocation of minimum essential combat capability to supporting efforts, with attendant degree of risk, so that combat power may be concentrated on the main effort. Economy of force is used to describe a principle of war and a condition of tactical operations; it is not used to describe a mission.


effective rangeThat range at which a weapon or weapons system has a fifty percent probability of hitting a target.

electronic order of battleDetails on the identification, location, and disposition of friendly and enemy electronic emitters and platforms in a particular area of operations. Also called EOB.


*embarkation and tonnage tableA consolidated table showing personnel and cargo, by troop or naval units, loaded aboard a combat-loaded ship.


emplacement1. A prepared position for one or more weapons or pieces of equipment, for protection against hostile fire or bombardment, and from which they can execute their tasks. 2. The act of fixing a gun in a prepared position from which it may be fired.


enable civil authoritiesTo support or assist local or national host nation government or other civil entities to effectively govern in their respective jurisdictions or to carry out other legitimate functions.


enabling actions1. Preparatory actions taken by the expeditionary force to facilitate the eventual accomplishment of the mission. 2. In logistic operations, preparatory actions taken by the expeditionary force after entry and establishment on foreign soil to facilitate the eventual accomplishment of the mission.

encirclementThe loss of freedom of maneuver resulting from enemy control of all ground routes of evacuation and reinforcement.

encircling forceIn pursuit operations, the force that maneuvers to the rear or flank of the enemy to block its escape so that it can be destroyed between the direct pressure force and encircling force.

This force advances or flies along routes parallel to the enemy's line of retreat. If the encircling force cannot outdistance and cut off the enemy, the encircling force may also attack the flank of a retreating enemy.

enfilade fireFire delivered on a target in such a manner that the range pattern of the fall of shot generally aligns with the long axis of the target. See also **defilade fire**.


engagement areaAn area where the commander intends to contain and destroy an enemy force with the effects of massed weapons and supporting systems.

engage the civil authoritiesTo interact with, coordinate with, and influence host nation civil authorities or members of the local population (with or without official titles) that can direct or influence popular attitudes or actions.


engineer reconnaissanceThe gathering of specific, detailed, technical information required by supporting engineer forces in order to prepare for and accomplish assigned missions.


engineer regulating pointA checkpoint to ensure that vehicles do not exceed the capacity of the crossing means and to give drivers final instructions on site-specific procedures and information, such as speed and vehicle interval. Also called ERP.


envelopment1. An offensive maneuver in which the main attacking force passes around or over the enemy's principal defensive positions to secure objectives to the enemy's rear. 2. In mechanized tactics, it normally requires a base of fire element and a bounding element.


essential elements of friendly information(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Specific facts about friendly intentions, capabilities, and activities needed by enemies and adversaries to plan and execute effective operations against our forces. Also called **EEFI**.


essential elements of terrain informationThose aspects of the terrain, both natural and manmade, that are identified as critical to mission success. Also called **EETI.**

essential task(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Specified or implied tasks that define mission success and apply to the force as a whole. The mission statement is derived from the essential tasks. See also implied task; specified task; tactical tasks.


estimative intelligence(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Class of intelligence that attempts to anticipate future possibilities and probabilities based on an analysis of descriptive intelligence in the context of planned friendly and assessed enemy operations. See also **current intelligence; descriptive intelligence**.


event template(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
A model against which enemy activity can be recorded and compared. It represents a sequential projection of events that relate to space and time on the battlefield and indicate the enemy's ability to adopt a particular course of action. It is a guide for collection and reconnaissance and surveillance planning.


executive staffNormally, the executive staff consists of the executive officer, S-1 (personnel), S-2 (intelligence), S-3 (operations and training), S-4 (logistics), S-5 (plans), S-6 (communications systems), S-7 (information environment), S-8 (finance/resource management), S-9 (civil affairs), and S-10 (force preservation). However, aviation and combat service support organizations may have additional executive staff officers to cover unique functions.

***exfiltrate**(See DOD Dictionary, **exfiltration**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) To remove personnel or units from areas under enemy control by stealth.

expeditionary airfieldA prefabricated and fully portable airfield. The effort and assets (e.g., materiel, engineer support, operational guidance, security) required for the installation/operation of an expeditionary airfield can require the participation/support of all elements of the Marine airground task force. Also called **EAF.**

expeditionary strike groupAn amphibious ready group/Marine expeditionary unit, supported by other forces, and led by an embarked Navy flag officer or Marine Corps general officer and an associated command element staff. An expeditionary strike group provides a greater range of amphibious and/or expeditionary warfare planning capabilities for the execution of a variety of missions in the operational environment, including the ability to conduct and support operations ashore and function as a sea base. Also called ESG.


exploit1. To take full advantage of success in battle and follow up initial gains to disorganize the enemy in depth. 2. To employ to the greatest possible advantage enemy information that has come into friendly hands.

*exploitation(See DOD Dictionary, part 3, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An offensive operation, following a successful attack, designed to disorganize the enemy in depth and extend the initial success of the attack by preventing the enemy from disengaging, withdrawing, and reestablishing an effective defense.


explosive ordnance disposal incidentThe suspected or detected presence of unexploded ordnance or damaged explosive ordnance that constitutes a hazard to operations, installations, personnel, or material. Not included in this definition are the accidental arming and other conditions that develop during the manufacture of high explosive material, technical service assembly operations, or the laying of mines and demolition charges.

explosive ordnance disposal operationAny mission where the employment of explosive ordnance disposal procedures by qualified explosive ordnance disposal personnel on an item(s) of hazardous or suspected hazardous unexploded ordnance (which presents a threat to operations, installations, personnel, or material) is conducted.

explosive ordnance disposal proceduresThose particular courses or modes of action taken by explosive ordnance disposal personnel for access to, diagnosis, rendering safe, recovery, and final disposal of explosive ordnance or any hazardous material associated with an explosive ordnance incident.

explosive ordnance disposal response section or elementThe initial team that responds to an explosive ordnance incident to locate, identify, and categorize explosive incidents. This response team may pick up, render safe, and/or dispose of a simple explosive ordnance disposal incident
(e.g., booby trap, hand grenade).

explosive ordnance disposal section or elementA section or element composed of a minimum of one officer and eight enlisted, fully qualified, explosive ordnance disposal technicians capable of performing any explosive ordnance disposal operation.

explosive safety quantity distanceRequirements that apply to the concentration of ammunition, explosives, and other hazardous materials at naval shore establishments for development; manufacturing; test and maintenance; storage, loading, and offloading of vehicles, railcars, and aircraft; disposal; and all related handling incidents. The requirements are based on records of actual fires and explosions involving ammunition and explosives. Also called **ESQD**.



## F


farside objectiveA defined location on the far side of an obstacle that an assaulting force seizes to eliminate enemy direct fires and observed indirect fires onto a reduction area or a crossing site to prevent the enemy from interfering with the reduction of the obstacle and allow follow-on forces to move securely through the created lanes. It can be oriented on the terrain or on an enemy force.


feint(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An offensive action involving contact with the enemy to deceive the enemy about the location or time of the actual main offensive action. Feints are used to cause the enemy to react in three predictable ways: to employ reserves improperly, to shift supporting fires, or to reveal defensive fires.

field feedingThe feeding of packaged operational rations or unitized group rations to individuals/units deployed to an expeditionary or austere environment for exercises and/or operations.

field messA galley operated in an expeditionary environment using field food service equipment.


***field of fire**The area that a weapon or group of weapons may cover effectively from a given position.

field supportA method of feeding in which a contractor or host nation procures only bulk food from an approved supply source for the Military Services to prepare meals in a field mess.

final coordination lineA line used to coordinate the ceasing and shifting of supporting fires and the final deployment of the assault echelon in preparation for launching an assault against an enemy position. Also called FCL.


final protective lineA line of fire selected where an enemy assault is to be checked by interlocking fire from all available weapons. A final protective line may be parallel with, or oblique to, the front of the position. Also called FPL.


fire and maneuverThe process of one or more elements establishing a base of fire to engage the enemy, while the other element(s) maneuver to an advantageous position from which to close with and destroy or capture the enemy.

fire and movementA technique primarily used in the assault wherein a unit or element advances by bounds or rushes, with supplements alternately moving and providing covering fire for other moving subelements. Fire and movement may be done by individuals (personnel or vehicles) or units (such as fire teams or squads). Usually, fire and movement is used only when under effective fire from the enemy because it is relatively slow and difficult to control.


fire commandA specific sequence of information given by a control authority that causes a crew to begin performing a sequence of actions and provides detailed direction to choose the ammunition type, aim the weapon, and engage the target. Each element given by the controller requires a response from a crewmember to ensure correct aiming and engagement. After the initial fire command, subsequent fire commands using the same sequence of information can be used to adjust the point of impact to ensure the desired target effect.


fire controlThe control of all operations in connection with the application of fire on a target.


fire direction netThe communications system linking observers, liaison officers, air observers, and firing batteries with the fire direction center for the purpose of fire control.


*fires(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Those means used to delay, disrupt, degrade, or destroy enemy capabilities, forces, or facilities as well as affect the enemy's will to fight. Fires is one of the seven warfighting functions. See also warfighting functions.


fire support(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Assistance to elements of the Marine air-ground task force engaged with the enemy rendered by other firing units, including (but not limited to) artillery, mortars, naval surface fire support, and offensive air support.

fire support coordinator(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The officer in charge of the fire support coordination center who is the direct representative of the landing force commander for the planning and coordination of all available fire support. Also called FSC.


fire support planA plan on how indirect fires and target acquisition will be used to support an operation. It should include a portion for each means of fire support involved.

firing positionIn air assault operations, a position occupied by an individual attack helicopter in order to engage targets. See also **battle position**.


first aidUrgent and immediate lifesaving and other measures that can be performed for casualties by nonmedical personnel when medical personnel are not immediately available.


fix1. To prevent the enemy from moving any part of the enemy's forces, either from a specific location or for a specific period of time, by holding or surrounding them to prevent their withdrawal for use elsewhere. 2. To integrate fire planning and obstacle effort to slow an attacker within a specified area.

*flank guardA security element operating to the flank of a moving or stationary force to protect that force from enemy ground observation, direct fire, and surprise attack.

flanking attackAn offensive maneuver directed at the flank of an enemy.


flash-to-bang timeThe time interval between visual observation of the flash of a weapon being fired and the auditory perception of the discharge proceeding from the same weapon.

*Fleet Marine Forces(See DOD Dictionary, Fleet Marine Force, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Those combined arms forces and the integral supporting elements thereof whose primary missions are to participate in combat and other operations as lawfully assigned. These forces may be task-organized as Marine air-ground task forces or as a Service component under a combatant command and include the Marine Corps Reserve, Marine Corps security forces at Navy shore activities, Marine Corps integral supporting elements, and Marine Corps combat forces not otherwise assigned. Also called FMF. See also Marine Corps forces;
Marine forces; supporting establishment.


flight ferryThe movement by self-deployment of the aircraft of the aviation combat element to the arrival and assembly area. Also called FF.


fly-in echelon(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Airlifted forces and equipment of the Marine air-ground task force and Navy support element plus aircraft and personnel arriving in the flight ferry of the aviation combat element. Also called FIE.


followThe order of movement of combat, combat support, and combat service support forces in a given combat operation.

***follow and assume**A tactical task in which a second committed force follows a force conducting an offensive operation and is prepared to continue the mission if the lead force is fixed, attrited, or unable to continue.


***follow and support**A tactical task in which a committed force follows and supports a lead force conducting an offensive operation.

follow-on forcesAll ground forces not committed during offensive operations to the contact battle, the command and control installations, and the logistic and other support provided for sustained operations.

food service host-nation supportSelected subsistence items procured from the local economy and prepared by Marine Corps food service personnel.

force beachheadThe geographic area that contains the amphibious task force and landing force objectives and which, when secured, will enable the landing force to accomplish its basic mission. When seized and held, the continuous landing of personnel and material is ensured and provides a base for subsequent operations ashore.


force continuumThe wide range of possible actions ranging from voice commands to application of deadly force that may be used to gain and maintain control of a potentially dangerous situation.


force module(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A
task organization that is tailored and time phased to meet specific challenges of operational environments ranging from permissive to hostile in any operational area.


force-oriented reconnaissanceA directed effort to quickly find a specific enemy force and stay with it wherever it moves on the battlefield.

*force protection(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Actions or efforts used to safeguard own centers of gravity while protecting, concealing, reducing, or eliminating friendly critical vulnerabilities. Force protection is one of the seven warfighting functions. Also called FP. See also **warfighting functions**.


force reconnaissance companyA unit whose mission is to conduct preassault and deep postassault reconnaissance operations in support of a landing force and its subordinate elements.


force sustainmentCapabilities, equipment, and operations that ensure continuity, freedom of action, logistic support, and command and control.


fordA shallow part of a body of water or wet gap that can be crossed without bridging, boats, ferries, or rafts. It is a location in a water barrier where the physical characteristics of current, bottom, and approaches permit the passage of personnel, vehicles, and other equipment where the wheels or tracks remain in contact with the bottom at all times.


foreign internal defense(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Participation by civilian, military, and law enforcement agencies of a government in any of the action programs taken by another government or other designated organization to free and protect its society from subversion, lawlessness, insurgency, terrorism, and other threats to its security. Also called FID.

fortified areaA defensive system that contains numerous strong points disposed in depth and width in such a manner as to be mutually supporting.

forward assembly areaA temporary area where aviation units gather to prepare for a mission that is forward of the aviation brigade's assembly area and airfield, but not as far forward as the attack position. Aircraft may be in the forward assembly area for short or long duration based on mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support availabletime available.


forward command postAn installation from which close supervision and command is exercised during combat. It contains the facilities required to control the operations of widely separated or rapidly moving units. See also command post.


forward deploymentA basic undertaking that entails stationing of alert forces with their basic stocks for extended periods of time at either land-based overseas facilities or, in maritime operations, aboard ships at sea as a means of enhancing national contingency response capabilities.


fragmentary order(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An abbreviated form of an operation order, usually issued on a day-to-day basis, that eliminates the need for restating information contained in a basic operation order. It may be issued in sections. Also called **FRAGO**.

friendly force information requirement(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Information the commander needs about friendly forces in order to develop plans and make effective decisions. Depending upon the circumstances, information on unit location, composition, readiness, personnel status, and logistic status could become a friendly force information requirement. Also called FFIR.


frontageThe width of the front plus that distance beyond the flanks covered by observation and fire by a unit in combat.

frontal attackAn offensive maneuver in which the main action is directed against the front of the enemy forces.

frontal fireFire delivered at a right angle to the front of the target.


function(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The specific responsibilities assigned by the President and Secretary of Defense to enable Services to fulfill legally established roles.

future operations section1. In Marine air-ground task force operations, a section normally under the staff cognizance of the G-3 that focuses on planning/producing new fragmentary orders or the next change of major subordinate command mission. This section forms and leads the integrated planning effort with a planning horizon of 72 to 120 hours out. It also develops branch plans and sequels. 2. In Marine aviation, that portion of the tactical air command center and aviation combat element commander's battlestaff responsible for the detailed planning and coordination of all future air operations conducted by the aviation combat element in support of the Marine airground task force. The section plans for and publishes the next air tasking order(s) (normally a 48-
to 72-hour period). Also called FOS. See also current operations section; operational planning team.



## G


gap1. Any break or breach in the continuity of tactical dispositions or formations beyond effective small arms coverage. Gaps (soft spots, weaknesses) may in fact be physical gaps in the enemy's disposition, but they also may be any weakness in time, space, or capability; a moment in time when the enemy is overexposed and vulnerable, a seam in an air defense umbrella, an infantry unit caught unprepared in open terrain, or a boundary between two units. 2. A ravine, mountain pass, or river that presents an obstacle that must be bridged. 3. An area within a minefield or obstacle belt, free of live mines or obstacles, whose width and direction will allow a friendly force to pass through in tactical formation.

gap crossingThe projection of combat power across a linear obstacle (wet or dry gap).


gap-crossing operationA mobility operation consisting of river crossing, brigade-level crossing, and special gap-crossing operations conducted to project combat power across a linear obstacle (wet or dry gap). See also **mobility operations**.


general engineering(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Intensive effort by engineer units that involves high standards of design and construction as well as detailed planning and preparation. It is that wide range of tasks in rear areas that serves to sustain forward combat operations.

global sourcingA process of force provision or augmentation whereby resources may be drawn from any location/command worldwide.

governance(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The process, systems, institutions, and actors that enable a state to function.

***ground/air task-oriented radar**An air defense radar detection system comprised of a ground weapons locating radar and a multirole radar system. Also called **G/ATOR**.


ground combat elementThe core element of a Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) that is task-organized to conduct ground operations. It is usually constructed around an infantry organization but can vary in size from a small ground unit of any type to one or more Marine divisions that can be independently maneuvered under the direction of the MAGTF commander. It includes appropriate ground combat and combat support forces, and in a joint or multinational environment, it may also contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the MAGTF. The ground combat element itself is not a formal command. Also called GCE. See also aviation combat element; command element; logistics combat element; Marine air-ground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force (forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine airground task force.

ground controlled approachA section of Marine air traffic control agencies responsible for the effective radar control of aircraft that have been assigned by approach control or local control. This control normally covers the transition from an altitude assigned by approach control to termination by landing. Also called GCA.



ground effect1. A condition created when a helicopter's or tiltrotor aircraft's downwash is altered in its flow by contact with the ground. The result of ground effect is that the helicopter requires less power to hover than when hovering out of ground effect. 2. The generation of an air cushion artificially created so that a vehicle is supported on the air cushion close to the ground but nevertheless riding free; hence, utilizing this effect to eliminate ground friction. Also called ground cushion.


guard1. To protect the main force by fighting to gain time while also observing and reporting information. 2. A form of  security operation whose primary task is to protect the main force by fighting to gain time while also observing and reporting information, and to prevent enemy ground observation of and direct fire against the main body by reconnoitering, attacking, defending, and delaying. A guard force normally operates within the range of the main body's indirect fire weapons.

***guarding force**A security element whose primary task is to protect the main force from attack, direct fire, and ground observation by fighting to gain time while also observing and reporting information.

guided-rockets, artillery, mortars, and missilesA class of indirect fire weapons enhanced by homing, guidance, and control systems that together allow them to actively change their trajectory and guide their warhead more precisely onto their targets. Also called **G-RAMM.**

## H


hackThe command to begin timing or synchronize time.


*handover line1. A control measure, preferably following easily defined terrain features, at which responsibility for the conduct of combat operations is passed from one force to another. 2. A predetermined location, normally a phase line designated as a handover line, where control of the battle is transferred to the main battle force. Also called HOL.


harbor siteA relatively secure operational site where forward deployed reconnaissance elements may operate communications/electronics equipment or rest during advance force or special operations.


hasty attackAn offensive action conducted when preparation time must be traded for speed.

Forces readily available are committed immediately to the attack.


hasty breach(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
The rapid creation of a route through a minefield, barrier, or fortification by any expedient method.


hasty crossingThe crossing of an inland water obstacle using crossing means at hand or those readily available and made without pausing for elaborate preparations. Preferably, a hasty crossing is conducted by seizing an intact crossing site.

hasty defenseA defense normally organized while in contact with the enemy or when contact with the enemy is imminent and time for organization is limited.


hazardous waste1. A solid waste or combination of solid wastes that because of its quantity;
concentration; or physical, chemical, or infectious characteristics may (a) cause or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in irreversible or incapacitating reversible illness or (b) pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or to the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed. The term solid waste includes liquid, semisolid, or contained gaseous material. 2. Any waste that requires special precaution in its storage, collection, transportation, treatment, or disposal to prevent damage to persons or property, including explosive, flammable, volatile, radioactive, toxic, and pathological wastes. Also called HW.


headquarters commandantOperating under the staff cognizance of the chief of staff, the officer responsible for local operational, administrative, and logistic support of the headquarters. Also called **HQCMDT**.


health and comfort packA Service contingency item designed to provide necessary health and comfort items for military personnel. Also called HCP.


health maintenanceThose tasks to ensure that a unit and its personnel are medically ready for combat operations. Included are routine sick calls, physical examinations, preventive medicine and dentistry programs, records maintenance, and medical reporting.

helicopter logistic support centerIn amphibious operations, a unit within the Navy control organization whose mission is to coordinate the helicopterborne ship-to-shore movement of serials in accordance with the landing plan.

helicopter rope suspension techniques masterA Marine trained and certified to instruct rappelling, fast rope, and special patrol insertion and extraction operations. Also called HRST master.


*helicopter/tiltrotor support teamA task organization formed and equipped for employment in a landing zone to facilitate the landing and movement of troops, equipment, and supplies, and to evacuate selected casualties and enemy prisoners of war. The team is sourced from the Marine logistics group, specifically from the landing support company of the support battalion. Also called HST.


helicopter wave(See DOD Dictionary, **wave**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) One or more helicopters grouped under a single leader scheduled to land in the same landing zone at approximately the same time. A helicopter wave is composed of one or more flights and can consist of helicopters from more than one ship.


hideThe positioning of a vehicle, individual, or unit so that no part is exposed to observation or direct fire.

high altitude tacticsFixed-wing tactical execution flown over 25,000 feet mean sea level, to remain above the threat's low to medium altitude surface-to-air systems. See also low altitude tactics; medium altitude tactics.


horizontal and vertical constructionDeliberate engineering projects that normally involve time, manpower, material, and equipment-intensive tasks. These tasks usually relate to survivability and sustainability efforts.


host-nation feedingFeeding that consists of one or more of the following types of support: hostnation support, host-nation messing, contract feeding, and field support.

host-nation messingBulk food purchased for United States military organizations (as opposed to individual Service members), with the host nation or contractor providing the food and its preparation. Also called HNM.


hull downDuring direct fire engagement, the positioning of an armored vehicle so the muzzle of the gun or launcher is the lowest part of the vehicle exposed to the front thereby affording maximum protection.


human intelligence operationsOperations that cover a wide range of activities encompassing reconnaissance patrols, aircrew reports and debriefs, debriefing of refugees, interrogations of prisoners of war, and the conduct of counterintelligence force protection source operations. Also called **HUMINT operations**.


## I

implicit communicationsA form of communications achieved through mutual understanding with a minimum of key, well-understood phrases, or even anticipating each other's thoughts. It is established via long-term relationships and shared experiences that develop familiarity and trust
(unit cohesion).

implied task(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A
task derived from a mission order that, while not specifically stated, must be completed to accomplish the overall mission. See also **essential task; specified task; tactical tasks**.


independent operationAn operation in which the Marine air-ground task force commander has dual responsibilities as the Marine Corps forces (Service component) commander to a subordinate unified command, joint task force, combined joint task force, or multinational force.

indications and warningThose intelligence activities intended to detect and report timesensitive intelligence information on foreign developments that could involve a threat to the United States or allied and/or coalition military, political, or economic interests or to United States citizens abroad. It includes forewarning of hostile actions or intentions against the United States, its activities, overseas forces, or allied and/or coalition nations. Also called **I&W.**

indirect fireFire delivered on a target that is not itself used as a point of aim for the weapons or the director.

infantry battalionA ground combat organization consisting of a headquarters and service company, a weapons company, and three or four rifle companies. It is the basic tactical unit within the Marine Corps and is organized and structured to plan, conduct, and control ground operations to include the integration and terminal direction of aviation support of the ground battle. When required, rifle companies can be reinforced with tank, light armored, assault amphibian, and/or combat engineer units. Infantry battalions fight the battle as subordinate organizations of the infantry regiment or as the ground combat element of a Marine expeditionary unit. The battalion is foot mobile unless reinforced. To perform its role in combat, it requires air defense and aviation support from Marine aviation and service support from a combat service support organization.

infantry regimentA ground combat organization consisting of a headquarters company and three infantry battalions. The regiment is organized and structured to plan, conduct, and control ground combat operations to include the integration and terminal direction of aviation support for the ground battle. Subordinate units, when reinforced, can be organized into effective forces of combined arms. Infantry regiments fight as a subordinate organization of a Marine division or as the ground combat element of a Marine brigade-sized unit. The regiment is foot mobile unless reinforced. To perform its combat role, it requires air defense and aviation support from Marine aviation and service support from a combat service support organization.


infiltration1. The movement through or into an area or territory occupied by either friendly or enemy troops or organizations. The movement is made, either by small groups or by individuals at extended or irregular intervals. When used in connection with the enemy, it implies that contact is avoided. 2. In intelligence usage, placing an agent or other person in a target area in hostile territory. Usually involves crossing a frontier or other guarded line.

influenceTo cause the enemy to behave in a manner favorable to friendly forces.

influence the populationTo persuade the civil population within the area of operations to support or cooperate with operations by friendly forces, or, at a minimum, to accept the friendly force presence in the area of operations.


*information operationsThis is a legacy term formally decommissioned as a Marine Corps doctrinal term per signed memorandum, dated 22 Jan 2020, by the Deputy Commandant for Combat Development and Integration and the Deputy Commandant for Information.


information requirements(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) All information elements the commander and staff require to successfully conduct operations, that is, all elements necessary to address the factors of mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support availabletime available. Also called IR.


initial terminal guidanceA mission normally assigned to reconnaissance units to provide the assault support coordinator (airborne) with information resulting from prelanding reconnaissance. The units establish and operate signal devices for guiding the initial assault support waves from the initial point to the landing point. Also called ITG.

initial terminal guidance teamsTeams from the force reconnaissance company or the reconnaissance battalion, Marine division, that have the inherent capability to provide terminal guidance for initial assault support waves in the landing zones. The teams are composed of personnel who are inserted into the landing zone in advance of the landing zone control team. They execute prelanding reconnaissance tasks and establish and operate signal devices for guiding the assault support waves from the initial point to the landing zone.


insertion1. Placement of troops and equipment into an operational area in air assault operations.

2. Placement of observation posts, patrols, or raiding parties by helicopter/tiltrotor aircraft, parachute, watercraft, or other means. Stealth is normally desired in the execution of an insertion.


in-stride breachA breaching operation used to quickly overcome unexpected or lightly defended tactical obstacles.

integration(See DOD Dictionary, part 4, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A stage in the intelligence cycle in which a pattern is formed through the selection and combination of evaluated information.

*intelligence(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Knowledge about the enemy or the surrounding environment needed to support decision-making.

Intelligence is one of the seven warfighting functions. See also **warfighting functions**.


intelligence cycleA six-step process by which information is converted into intelligence and made available to users. The six steps are planning and direction, collection, processing and exploitation, production, dissemination, and utilization.

intelligence dataData derived from assets primarily dedicated to intelligence collection such as imagery systems, electronic intercept equipment, human intelligence sources, etc.


intelligence preparation of the battlespace(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The systematic, continuous process of analyzing the threat and environment in a specific geographic area. Also called IPB.


intelligence requirement(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Questions about the enemy and the environment, the answers to which a commander requires to make sound decisions. Also called IR.


interdependenceThe purposeful reliance by one Service on another Service's capabilities to maximize the complementary and reinforcing effects of both; the degree of interdependence varies with specific circumstances.


interdict(See DOD Dictionary, **interdiction**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) To divert, disrupt, delay, or destroy the enemy's surface military potential before it can be used effectively against friendly forces.


*intermediate inventoryA level of retail inventory required between the consumer and wholesale levels of inventory for support of a defined geographical area or for tailored support of specific organizations or activities. See also consumer inventory, retail inventory, wholesale inventory.


international terrorist activitiesThe calculated use of violence, or threat of violence, to attain political goals through fear, intimidation, or coercion. It usually involves a criminal act, often symbolic in nature, and is intended to influence an audience beyond the immediate victims. International terrorism transcends national boundaries in the carrying out of the act, the purpose of the act, the nationalities of the victims, or the resolution of the incident; such an act is usually designed to attract wide publicity to focus attention on the existence, cause, or demands of the perpetrators.

interpretation(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
A part of the production phase in the Marine Corps intelligence cycle that supports the commander's decision-making process.

intertheaterBetween theaters or between the continental United States and theaters.


intratheaterWithin a theater.


intuitive decision-makingThe act of reaching a conclusion which emphasizes pattern recognition based on knowledge, judgment, experience, education, intelligence, boldness, perception, and character. This approach focuses on assessment of the situation vice comparison of multiple options.

irregular warfare(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A type of warfare that favors indirect and asymmetric approaches, though it may employ the full range of military and other capacities, in order to erode an adversary's power, influence, and will. Also called IW.
***isolate**To seal off, both physically and psychologically, an enemy force from sources of support, deny them freedom of movement, and prevent them from having contact with other enemy forces.


## J


joint air logistic information systemThe automated scheduling system utilized by all Services to provide validated airlift requests to the joint operational support airlift center for action. Also called **JALIS**.


*joint mission planning systemexpeditionaryTailorable web-based ship-to-shore planning tool for Navy staffs that enables collaborative planning over a distributed network, improves ability to communicate commanders' intent, and increases crisis action planning efficiency. Also called JMPS-E.


joint operation(See DOD Dictionary, **joint operations**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An operation carried on by a force that is composed of significant elements of the Army, the Navy or the Marine Corps, and the Air Force, or two or more of these Services operating under a single commander authorized to exercise unified command or operational control over joint forces. (Note: A Navy/Marine Corps operation is not a joint operation.)

Joint Operational Support Airlift CenterThe United States Transportation Command joint scheduling activity assigned responsibility to schedule all valid continental United States operational support airlift requests and coordinate requirements with the requester and reporting custodian of operational support airlift aircraft on all scheduled missions. Also called **JOSAC**.


joint technical architectureA document that identifies a common set of mandatory information technology standards and guidelines to be used in all new and upgraded command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence acquisitions across the Department of Defense. Also called JTA. See also **operational architecture; systems architecture; technical architecture**.

## K


kill zoneThat part of an ambush site where fire is concentrated to isolate, fix, and destroy the enemy.

knowledge managementThe integration of people and processes, enabled by technology, to facilitate the exchange of operationally relevant information and expertise to increase organizational performance.


## L


laager pointA secure location on the ground designated by aviation units utilized for the rendezvous, marshalling, or positioning of flights of aircraft between missions or awaiting completion or activation of an assigned mission. Other than communications, no other support should be required. The site may be isolated and independent or it may be adjacent to an airfield, a facility, or a forward arming and refueling point.

landing craft, air cushionA high-speed (40+ knots), over-the-beach, ship-to-shore amphibious landing vehicle capable of a 60-ton payload (75-ton overload). It is designed to lift all equipment organic to the Marine air-ground task force in an amphibious operation. Also called **LCAC**.


*landing craft, air cushion control pointA geographical position established by the primary control officer along the landing craft, air cushion transit lane to control the ship-to-shore movement of landing craft, air cushion waves. Also called CCP.


*landing craft, air cushion landing siteAn individual landing spot within the landing zone.

Also called CLS.


*landing craft, air cushion landing zoneThe beach or inland area where landing craft, air cushion waves come off cushion to offload or on load personnel, equipment, and cargo. Landing craft, air cushion landing zones are selected based on a variety of factors supporting the landing force concept of operations ashore. Also called CLZ.


*landing craft, air cushion penetration pointA geographic position selected by the commander, amphibious task force where the landing craft, air cushion wave crosses the high water mark and tactical control shifts from the central control officer to the landing craft, air cushion landing zone control team. Also called CCP.


landing craft employment planThe plan for the assignment and movement of landing craft from the various ships to satisfy naval and landing force requirements.

landing force objectiveA definite geographic area that is to be captured or controlled by the landing force to assist in the accomplishment of the amphibious task force mission.


landing force support party(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The forward echelon of the logistics combat element formed to facilitate the transportation and throughput operations. In maritime prepositioning force operations, the landing force support party is responsible to the Marine air-ground task force commander for the reception of maritime prepositioned equipment and supplies and personnel at the beach, port, and arrival airfield, and movement control to the unit assembly areas. Also called **LFSP**.


landing zone(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A
specified ground area for landing assault support aircraft to embark or disembark troops and/or cargo and it may contain one or more landing sites. Also called **LZ.**

landing zone diagramA graphic portrayal of the lanes to and from the landing zone and the assault support transports or landing zones.

landing zone reconnaissanceVisual reconnaissance to determine the location, characteristics, capacity, and suitability of potential landing zones.

landing zone support areaA forward support installation that provides minimum essential support to the air assault forces of the Marine air-ground task force. It can expand into a combat service support area but it is most often a short-term installation with limited capabilities, normally containing dumps for rations, fuel, ammunition, and water only; maintenance is limited to contact teams and/or support teams. Also called **LZSA**.

lane1. A clear route through an obstacle. A lane for foot troops is a minimum of one meter in width and may be further expanded. A foot lane is marked with tracing tape along its centerline. A
single lane for vehicles is a minimum of 8 meters in width; a double lane is at least 15 meters in width. Vehicle lanes are marked by any means available.  2. In mobility operations, a route through, over, or around an enemy or friendly obstacle that provides safe passage of a passing force. The route may be reduced and proofed as part of a breaching operation, constructed as part of the obstacle, or marked as a bypass.

lateral communicationsSharing information, assessments, and products with adjacent forces or other forces as necessary for the conduct of operations. It is normally used to facilitate decentralization and freedom of action by subordinates.

latest time intelligence is of valueThe time by which information must be delivered to the requestor in order to provide decision makers with timely intelligence. Also called **LTIOV**.


***law enforcement activities**Those actions performed by trained police officers, who are directly accountable to the governmental source of their authority, authorized by legal authority to compel compliance with and investigate violations of applicable laws, directives, and punitive regulations.

(Note: Law enforcement occurs in support of governance and the rule of law; for law enforcement to occur, a legal system must exist.) See also **policing**.


law enforcement professionalAn experienced law enforcement specialist assigned to a Marine Corps unit to assist the commander and staff to adapt law enforcement tactics, techniques, procedures, and perspectives, where appropriate to assist in accomplishing the mission. Also called LEP.


lay leaderA volunteer appointed by the commanding officer and supervised and trained by the command or immediate superior in command chaplain to serve for a period of time to meet the needs of a particular religious organization when their military chaplains are not available. The lay leader may conduct services, but may not exercise any other activities usually reserved for chaplains.


leverage(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
Exploiting action, power, or influence from an external source to gain an advantage.

liaison with civil authoritiesTo maintain communication (including personal contact) with key members of United States Government agencies, host nation government entities, and nongovernmental organizations, to ensure mutual understanding and unity of purpose or action.

limited scale raidThe capability to conduct short-duration strikes and small-scale offensive action, using tactics such as precision raid, ambush, and direct assault using close-quarter battle skills. Tactical recovery of aircraft and personnel is an example of a limited scale raid operation.

Also called **LSR.**

limit of advanceAn easily recognized terrain feature beyond which attacking elements will not advance. Also called LOA.


linear targetA target that has more width than depth.


line of communications bridgingBridges used to establish semi-permanent or permanent support to road networks.


*line of contactA general trace delineating the location where two opposing forces are engaged.

Also called LC.


line of sightThe unobstructed path from a Marine, weapon, weapon sight, electronic sending and receiving antennas, or piece of reconnaissance equipment to another point. Also called LOS.


linkupAn operation wherein two friendly ground forces join together in a hostile area.


littoral(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A zone of military operations along a coastline, consisting of the seaward approaches from the open ocean to the shore, which must be controlled to support operations ashore, as well as the landward approaches to the shore that can be supported and defended directly from the sea.

loadingThe process of placing personnel, materiel, supplies, and other freight onboard ships, aircraft, trains, road vehicles, or other means of conveyance.

local securityThose security elements established in the proximity of a unit to prevent surprise by the enemy.

logistic operating systemFunctional processes, organizations, people, assets, equipment, and facilities that when combined provide logistic capability.

*logistics(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) 1. The science of planning and executing the movement and support of forces. 2. All activities required to move and sustain military forces. Logistics is one of the seven warfighting functions. See also warfighting functions.


logistics combat elementThe core element of a Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) that is task-organized to provide the combat service support necessary to accomplish the MAGTF's mission. The logistics combat element varies in size from a small detachment to one or more Marine logistics groups. It provides supply, maintenance, transportation, general engineering, health services, and a variety of other services to the MAGTF. In a joint or multinational environment, it may also contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the MAGTF. The logistics combat element itself is not a formal command. Also called LCE. See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element; Marine air-ground task force;

Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force
(forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground task force.

low altitude tacticsFixed-wing tactical execution flown below 10,000 feet above ground level to keep the attack force below enemy early warning radar coverage as long as possible. See also high altitude tactics; medium altitude tactics.


## M


MAGTF movement control centerA standing organization and a subordinate element of the MAGTF deployment and distribution operations center that allocates, schedules, and coordinates ground transportation requirements based on the MAGTF commander's priorities. At the Marine expeditionary force level, the MAGTF movement control center replaces the logistics and movement control center, and may require augmentation to execute movement command and control based on operational tempo. Also called **MMCC**.


MAGTF offload liaison teamA task organization assigned to both the offload preparation party and the offload control unit to assist in communicating the Marine air-ground task force commander's warfighting and offload priorities, and to provide technical supervision and direction on Marine Corps offload preparation party and debarkation matters. Also called **MOLT**.


*main battle area1. That portion of the battlespace in which the commander conducts close operations to defeat the enemy. Normally, the main battle area extends rearward from the forward edge of the battle area to the rear boundary of the command's subordinate units. 2. That portion of the battlefield in which the decisive battle is fought to defeat the enemy. Also called MBA.


main bodyThe principal part of a tactical command or formation. It does not include detached elements of the command such as advance guards, flank guards, and covering forces.

main effortThe designated subordinate unit whose mission at a given point in time is most critical to overall mission success. It is usually weighted with the preponderance of combat power and is directed against a center of gravity through a critical vulnerability.


maintenance floatEnd items or components of equipment authorized for stockage at installations or activities for replacement of unserviceable items of equipment when immediate repair of unserviceable equipment cannot be accomplished at the organic level of maintenance.


maintenance levelsThe categories of maintenance and corresponding echelons of maintenance are organizational (first and second echelons), intermediate (third and fourth echelons), and depot (fifth echelon).

*maneuver(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The movement of forces for the purpose of gaining an advantage over the enemy. Maneuver is one of the seven warfighting functions. See also **warfighting functions**.


maneuver warfareA warfighting philosophy that seeks to shatter the enemy's cohesion through a variety of rapid, focused, and unexpected actions that create a turbulent and rapidly deteriorating situation with which the enemy cannot cope.

Marine air assault task forceA task-organized unit combining aviation assets, air assault force units, and supporting units for use in air assault operations. Also called **MAATF**. See also air assault; air assault operation.

Marine air command and control systemA system that provides the aviation combat element commander with the means to command, coordinate, and control all air operations within an assigned sector and to coordinate air operations with other Services. Also called **MACCS**. See also air direction; **air control**.


Marine air control groupA command that provides, operates, and maintains the Marine air command and control system, a battle-ready system of command and control agencies fully integrated by rapid, reliable tactical communications. With Stinger missile systems, and in conjunction with coordinating the equipment of interceptor aircraft and ground-based systems, the Marine air control group provides low altitude air defense against low/medium altitude air attacks.

Also called **MACG**.


Marine aircraft groupAdministratively and tactically structured by aircraft category as being either a fixed-wing group or a combined rotary-wing and tiltrotor group. Marine aircraft groups may also be formed for specific missions or unique organizational/geographic considerations. Each Marine aircraft group has a headquarters and maintenance squadron. With a source of supply, the Marine aircraft group is the smallest aviation unit capable of self-sustaining, independent operations. Also called MAG.


Marine aircraft wingThe highest level aviation command in the Fleet Marine Force that is taskorganized to provide a flexible and balanced air combat organization capable of the full range of combat air operations in a variety of areas without the requirement of prepositioned support, control, and logistic facilities. Only the wing has the inherent capability of performing all six aviation functions. Also called MAW.


Marine air-ground task forceThe Marine Corps' principal organization for all missions across the range of military operations, composed of forces task-organized under a single commander capable of responding rapidly to a contingency anywhere in the world. The types of forces in the Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF) are functionally grouped into four core elements: a command element, an aviation combat element, a ground combat element, and a logistics combat element.  The four core elements are categories of forces, not formal commands. The basic structure of the MAGTF never varies, though the number, size, and type of Marine Corps units comprising each of its four elements will always be mission dependent. The flexibility of the organizational structure allows for one or more subordinate MAGTFs to be assigned. In a joint or multinational environment, other Service or multinational forces may be assigned or attached. Also called MAGTF. See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element;
logistics combat element; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force (forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground task force.


Marine air-ground task force all-source fusion centerThe primary analysis and production element of the Marine air-ground task force that processes and produces all source intelligence products in response to requirements of the Marine air-ground task force. Also called MAGTF
AFC.


Marine air-ground task force command and controlAn integrating process that provides governance over the command and control community to ensure all objectives are met. It is a strategy to harmonize all aspects of command and control concepts, requirements, training, and doctrine. Also called **MAGTF C2**.


Marine air traffic control detachmentThe principal terminal control agency within the Marine air command and control system that provides continuous all-weather, radar/nonradar approach, departure, en route, and tower air traffic control services to friendly aircraft. Also called MATCD.

See also Marine air command and control system.


Marine air traffic control mobile teamA task-organized element provided by the Marine air traffic control detachment that is trained and equipped to provide initial rapid response air traffic control and command, control, and communications in support of Marine air-ground task force and joint missions. Marine air traffic control mobile teams usually support operations at air sites, forward arming and refueling points, rapid ground refueling points, or laager points. Normally, a fully staffed and equipped mobile team capability can be provided on a 24-hour basis for up to 72
hours without resupply or augmentation. Also called MMT. See also Marine air traffic control detachment.


Marine aviation functionsThe six functions (antiair warfare, offensive air support, assault support, electronic warfare, air reconnaissance, and control of aircraft and missiles) performed by Marine aviation in support of the Marine air-ground task force.


Marine Corps core competenciesThe set of specific capabilities or activities fundamental to a Service or agency role. They define the essential contributions to the overall effectiveness of the Department of Defense and its unified commands. The Marine Corps' core competencies are as follows:

-
Conduct persistent forward naval engagement, always prepared to respond as the Nation's force in readiness.
-
Employ integrated combined arms across the range of military operations, able to operate as part of a joint or multinational force.
-
Provide forces and specialized detachments for service aboard ships, on stations, and for operations ashore.
-
Conduct joint forcible entry operations from the sea, and develop amphibious landing force capabilities and doctrine.
-
Conduct complex expeditionary operations in the urban littorals and other challenging environments.
-
Lead joint and multinational operations, and enable interagency activities.

Marine Corps forcesThe amalgamation of personnel, materiel, and support elements that comprises the Marine Corps. These forces (formally identified as Fleet Marine Forces in Title 10) include the Regular Marine Corps, the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, and the Marine Corps Reserve.

See also **Fleet Marine Forces; Marine forces; supporting establishment**.

Marine Corps installationsThose installations, bases, and/or stations under the control, supervision, jurisdiction, or responsibility of and operated by the Marine Corps or unit of the Marine Corps.

Marine Corps Planning ProcessA six-step methodology that helps organize the thought processes of the commander and staff throughout the planning and execution of military operations. It focuses on the mission and the threat and is based on the Marine Corps philosophy of maneuver warfare. It capitalizes on the principle of unity of command and supports the establishment and maintenance of tempo. The six steps consist of problem framing, course of action development, course of action war game, course of action comparison and decision, orders development, and


transition. Also called **MCPP**. (Note: Tenets of the MCPP include top-down planning, single-battle concept, and integrated planning.)

Marine Corps Task ListA comprehensive list of Marine Corps tasks, doctrinally based, designed to support current and future mission-essential task list development. Also called **MCTL**.


Marine divisionA ground force of combat and combat support units organized and equipped primarily for amphibious operations. It consists of three infantry regiments, an artillery regiment, and separate combat support battalions. Subordinate units can be organized into effective forces of combined arms based upon the infantry regiment, infantry battalion, or tank battalion. One or more divisions form the ground combat element of the Marine expeditionary force. To perform its combat role, it requires air defense and aviation support from a Marine aircraft wing and service support from a Marine logistics group. Also called **MARDIV**.

Marine expeditionary brigadeA Marine air-ground task force that is constructed around an infantry regiment reinforced, a composite Marine aircraft group, and a combat logistics regiment. The Marine expeditionary brigade (MEB), commanded by a general officer, is task-organized to meet the requirements of a specific situation. It can function as part of a joint task force, as the lead echelon of the Marine expeditionary force, or alone. It varies in size and composition and is larger than a Marine expeditionary unit but smaller than a Marine expeditionary force. The MEB is capable of conducting missions across the range of military operations. In a joint or multinational environment, it may also contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the Marine air-ground task force. Also called MEB. See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element; logistics combat element; Marine air-ground task force;
Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground task force.

Marine expeditionary forceThe largest Marine air-ground task force and the Marine Corps'
principal warfighting organization, particularly for larger crises or contingencies. It is taskorganized around a permanent command element and normally contains one or more Marine divisions, Marine aircraft wings, and Marine logistics groups. The Marine expeditionary force is capable of missions across a range of military operations, including amphibious assault and sustained operations ashore in any environment. It can operate from a sea base, a land base, or both. In a joint or multinational environment, it may also contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the Marine air-ground task force. Also called MEF. See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element; logistics combat element; Marine air-ground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force
(forward); Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground task force.

Marine expeditionary force (forward)A designated lead echelon of a Marine expeditionary force (MEF), task-organized to meet the requirements of a specific situation. A Marine expeditionary force (forward) varies in size and composition, and it may be commanded by the MEF commander personally or by another designated commander. It may be tasked with preparing for the subsequent arrival of the rest of the MEF/joint/multinational forces, and/or the conduct of other specified tasks, at the discretion of the MEF commander. A Marine expeditionary force (forward) may also be a stand-alone Marine air-ground task force, task-organized for a mission in which a MEF is not required. In a joint or multinational environment, it may also contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the Marine air-ground task force. Also called MEF (FWD). See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element;
logistics combat element; Marine air-ground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade;
Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary unit; special purpose Marine air-ground task force.


Marine expeditionary unitA Marine air-ground task force that is constructed around an infantry battalion reinforced, a composite squadron reinforced, and a task-organized logistics combat element. It normally fulfills Marine Corps' forward sea-based deployment requirements. The Marine expeditionary unit provides an immediate reaction capability for crisis response and is capable of limited combat operations. In a joint or multinational environment, it may contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the Marine air-ground task force. Also called MEU. See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element; logistics combat element; Marine air-ground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force (forward); special purpose Marine airground task force.


***Marine forces**(See DOD Dictionary, Service component command, definition.) A Marine Corps component command within a combatant command. (Note: The abbreviation MARFOR is not a standalone abbreviation. It is used only in conjunction with the official titles of Marine Corps component commands and with reference to Marine Corps Service component command within a joint force.) See also **Fleet Marine Forces; Marine Corps forces; supporting establishment**.


Marine logistics groupThe logistics combat element of the Marine expeditionary force (MEF).

It is a permanently organized command tasked with providing combat service support beyond the organic capabilities of supported units of the MEF. The Marine logistics group is normally structured with direct and general support units that are organized to support a MEF possessing one Marine division and one Marine aircraft wing. It may also provide smaller task-organized logistics combat elements to support Marine air-ground task forces smaller than a MEF. Also called MLG.

Marine special operations forcesThose Active Component Marine Corps forces designated by the Secretary of Defense that are specifically organized, trained, and equipped to conduct and support special operations. Also called **MARSOF.**

maritime prepositioning equipment and suppliesUnit equipment and sustaining supplies associated with a Marine air-ground task force and a Navy support element that are deployed on maritime prepositioning ships. Also called **MPE/S**.


maritime prepositioning forceA task organization of units under one commander formed for the purpose of introducing a Marine air-ground task force and its associated equipment and supplies into a secure area. The maritime prepositioning force is composed of a command element, a maritime prepositioning ships squadron, a Marine air-ground task force, and a Navy support element. Also called MPF.


maritime prepositioning ship(See DOD Dictionary, **maritime pre-positioning ships**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A maritime prepositioning ship is normally designated as a T-AKR. Also called MPS.


maritime prepositioning ships squadronA group of civilian-owned and civilian-crewed ships chartered by Military Sealift Command loaded with prepositioned equipment and 30 days of supplies to support up to a maritime prepositioning force Marine air-ground task force. Also called MPSRON. See also maritime prepositioning force.

marshalling area(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)  1. The general area in which unit preparation areas and departure airfields may be located and from which air movement is initiated. 2. In amphibious operations, the designated area in which, as part of the mounting process, units are reorganized for embarkation; vehicles and equipment are prepared to move directly to embarkation areas; and housekeeping facilities are provided for troops by other units.

measurement and signature intelligence(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Intelligence information gathered by technical instruments such as radars, passive electro-optical sensors, radiation detectors, and remote ground sensors. Also called MASINT.


mechanized allowance listA supported activities supply system-produced management report to reflect the table of equipment and special allowances of an organization. It provides valuable asset management information to the unit commander to assist in identifying excesses and deficiencies for budget preparation or redistribution, as necessary.

mechanized operationsTactical operations designed to maximize the ground mobility, protection, shock action, and firepower of combat vehicles to concentrate combat power rapidly against the enemy. Combat power is generated by the massed employment of tanks and by enhancing the mobility of the forces through the use of amphibious assault vehicles and other ground mobility means.

medical evacuationThe timely and efficient movement of the wounded, injured, or ill while providing en route medical care to and between medical treatment facilities. Also called MEDEVAC.


medical regulating control officerA medical administrative officer who controls and coordinates the seaward evacuation of casualties in the amphibious objective area. The medical regulating control officer is located on the primary control ship.


medium altitude tacticsFixed-wing tactical execution flown between 10,000 to 25,000 feet mean sea level to prevent exposure to antiaircraft artillery threats and low altitude surface-to-air missiles. See also **high altitude tactics; low altitude tactics**.

meeting engagementA combat action that occurs when a moving force, incompletely deployed for battle, engages an enemy at an unexpected time and place.


military crestAn area on the forward slope of a hill or ridge from which maximum observation covering the slope down to the base of the hill or ridge can be obtained.


military mapsMaps used by the military that vary from small-scale planimetric maps showing all of the continents to large-scale topographic maps suitable for tactical operations of small units and fire control. Military maps are classified according to their scale as small-scale (1: 600,000 and smaller); medium scale (larger than 1: 600,000 and smaller than 1: 75,000); and large scale (1: 75,000 and larger).


military operations on urbanized terrainAll military actions that are planned and conducted on a topographical complex and its adjacent natural terrain where manmade construction is the dominant feature. It includes combat in cities, which is that portion of military operations on urbanized terrain involving house-to-house and street-by-street fighting in towns and cities. Also called **MOUT**.


mine clusterThe basic unit of deliberate, manually-laid minefields. It normally consists of one to five mines emplaced within or on a semicircle within a 2-meter radius.


minimum altitude capableIn aviation, an altitude flown as a defensive response that requires the pilot to voluntarily limit the tasking and direct full attention to achieving and maintaining a very low level above the terrain for the duration of the response. Also called MAC.


mission(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Tasks assigned by the President to the combatant commanders in the Unified Command Plan.

mission creepExpansion of missions or efforts to assist in areas of concern unrelated to assigned duties that cripple efficient mission accomplishment.

mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support availabletime available1. In the context of information management, the major subject categories into which relevant information is grouped for military operations. 2. In the context of tactics, the major factors considered during mission analysis. Also called METT-T.


mission-essential equipmentDesignated items that are of such importance that they are subject to continuous monitoring and management at all levels of command.


mission-essential taskA task, selected by a force commander from the Marine Corps Task List, deemed essential to mission accomplishment. Also called MET.


mission-essential task listThe list of a command's essential tasks with appropriate conditions and performance standards to assure successful mission accomplishment. Also called METL.


mission load allowanceList of ordnance required to be carried in support of the ship's mission, excluding the ship's own armament. Mission load allowance is generally applicable to aircraft carriers, maritime prepositioning ships, amphibious warfare ships, destroyers, and submarine tenders. Also called MLA.


mobile defenseDefense of an area or position in which maneuver is used with organization of fire and utilization of terrain to seize the initiative from the enemy.

mobile electronic warfare support systemA specially configured light armored vehicle resident in the radio battalions capable of conducting signal intercept with line of bearing and electronic attack operations. Also called **MEWSS**.


mobility operationsThose combined arms activities that mitigate the effects of natural and manmade obstacles to enable freedom of movement and maneuver.


***movement to contact**A type of offensive that is employed to develop the situation and establish or regain contact with the enemy.

multicapableOperationally decisive across the range of military operations with a capacity tailored to combatant commanders' requirements; optimized to operate as an integrated system through the air, land, and maritime domains. (Note: Not to be used in the context of a type of force.

Forces are conventional or special operations.)

munition(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A
complete device charged with explosives; propellants; pyrotechnics; initiating components; or nuclear, biological, or chemical material for use in military operations, including demolitions. Certain suitably modified munitions can be used for training, ceremonial, or nonoperational purposes. Also called **ammunition**. (Note: In common usage, "munitions" [plural] can be military weapons, ammunitions, and equipment.)

## N


N-dayThe unnamed day an active duty unit is notified for deployment or redeployment.


named area of interest(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A point or area along a particular avenue of approach through which enemy activity is expected to occur. Activity or lack of activity within a named area of interest will help to confirm or deny a particular enemy course of action. Also called NAI.


Naval Air Training and Operating Procedures Standardization officerA member of the special staff on all Marine Corps aviation units with aircraft assigned. This officer works closely with the operations and safety officers, supervising standardization within the unit and advising the commander on all naval air training and operating procedures standardization matters. Also called NATOPS officer.


naval control organizationIn amphibious operations, a temporary control agency established by the commander, amphibious task force to coordinate the assault waves of landing craft, amphibious vehicles, landing ships, and assault support aircraft during the waterborne and assault support ship-to-objective maneuver.


Navy-dayFalls on O-2. It is the day the offload preparation party officer in charge transitions to assume the duty as the offload control unit officer in charge. At this time the Marine officer assigned as the assistant offload preparation party control officer in charge may assume duty as the Marine air-ground task force offload liaison officer. The Navy support element makes final preparations for the offload.

neck-downThe process whereby multiple types of systems, units, or procedures which perform or facilitate specific individual functions are converged into a lesser number with multirole functionality.

neutralize(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) To render the enemy or enemy resources ineffective or unusable.

no-fire area(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Two exceptions occur: (a) the establishing headquarters asks for or approves fire or (b) an enemy force takes refuge in the area, poses a major threat, and there is insufficient time to clear the fires needed to defend the friendly force. Also called NFA.


noncombatant1. An individual in an area of combat operations who is not armed and is not participating in any activity in support of any of the factions or forces involved in combat. 2. An individual, such as chaplain or medical personnel, whose duties do not involve combat.

noncontiguous area of operationsAn area of operations in which one or more of the commander's subordinate forces' areas of operations do not share a common boundary.


***noncooperative target recognition**System specific tactics and techniques used to positively identify air threats. Also called **NCTR**.


nonlethal capabilityActivities that support the range of military operations, typically without force; furthermore, when synchronized as part of an overarching strategy can provide synergistic, desired effects infeasible by conventional means alone.

nonscheduled units(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Units generally held aboard ship in readiness to land. These units are usually comprised of troops and equipment not required ashore during the initial offloading. Nonscheduled units are listed in the landing sequence table. Amphibious assault vehicles are not normally employed in the landing of nonscheduled units. See also amphibious operation landing categories; on-call waves; prepositioned emergency supplies; remaining landing force supplies; scheduled waves.


nonstandard bridgingBridging that is purposely designed for a particular gap and typically built using commercial off-the-shelf or locally available materials.


## O


oblique fireFire in which the long axis of the beaten zone is at an oblique to the long axis of the target, neither flanking nor frontal.


obscurationThe effects of weather, battlefield dust, and debris, or the use of smoke munitions to hamper observation and target-acquisition capability or to conceal activities or movement.


obscuration fireFire delivered to suppress the enemy by obscuring the enemy's view of the battlefield.

observe, orient, decide, act loopA conceptual model of the time-competitive decision cycle of observe-orient-decide-act. In military operations, the side that can consistently observe, orient, decide, and act more quickly than the other gains a significant operational and tactical advantage.

This cycle is critical to generating tempo. Also called **OODA loop**.


occupyTo move onto an objective, key terrain, or other manmade or natural terrain area without opposition and control the entire area.

offensive air supportThose air operations conducted against enemy installations, facilities, and personnel to directly assist the attainment of Marine air-ground task force objectives by the destruction of enemy resources or the isolation of the enemy's military forces. Offensive air support is one of the six functions of Marine aviation. Also called OAS. See also Marine aviation functions.


offensive antiair warfareThose operations conducted against enemy air assets and air defense systems before they can be launched or assume an attacking role. Offensive antiair warfare operations in or near the objective area consist mainly of air attacks to destroy or neutralize hostile aircraft, airfields, radars, air defense systems, and supporting areas. Also called **OAAW**.


offensive operationsOperations conducted to take the initiative from the enemy, gain freedom of action, and generate effects to achieve objectives. The four types of offensive operations are movement to contact, attack, exploitation, and pursuit.


offload dayAn unnamed day when the maritime prepositioning force offload commences. Also called **O-day**.


on-call wavesUnits that may soon be required ashore, but with allowed discretion as to time and place of landing, due to assigned mission. On-call waves may contain infantry reserves, antimechanized units, or combat support units. These waves are requested by serial number and are usually held in readiness for immediate landing. On-call waves are listed in the assault schedule, following the scheduled waves. See also amphibious operation landing categories;
nonscheduled units; prepositioned emergency supplies; remaining landing force supplies;
scheduled waves.


on-order missionA mission to be executed at an unspecified time in the future.


operational architecture1. Descriptions of the tasks, operational elements, and information flows required to accomplish or support a warfighting function. 2. It defines the type of information, the frequency of exchange, and what tasks are supported by these information exchanges. See also joint technical architecture; **systems architecture; technical architecture**.


operational control(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) With respect to a flight, the exercise of authority over initiating, conducting, or terminating a flight. Also called **OPCON**. See also air control; Marine air command and control system.


operational effectivenessThe measure of how well the system performs in its intended operating environment, including effects of countermeasures and tactics.

operational facilityA communications node that is comprised of more than one type of communications device or communications system (e.g., command and control vehicles). Also called **OPFAC**.


operational logisticsThe art of applying the military resources available to the forces to achieve national military objectives in a theater or area of operations or to facilitate the accomplishment of assigned missions in a military region, theater, or campaign. At the operational level of war, logistics involves fundamental decisions concerning force deployment and sustainability functions in terms of identifying military requirements, establishing priorities, and determining allocations necessary to implement the commander's concept.

operational mobilityThe ability to move between engagements and battles within the context of the campaign.

*operational planning teamA group built around the future operations section that integrates the staff representatives and resources. The operational planning team may have representatives or augmentation from each of the standard staff sections, the seven warfighting functions, staff liaisons, and/or subject matter experts. Also called OPT. See also current operations section; future operations section.


operational readiness floatA pool of mission-essential, maintenance-significant end items used to provide replacement items for unserviceable, reparable end items that cannot be repaired in time to meet an operational commitment. Also called ORF.


operational religious ministryThose tasks and professional services performed by the religious ministry team in direct support of the Marines, Sailors, family members, and other authorized personnel of the command to which they are assigned. It includes, but is not limited to, such religious ministry activities and programs as divine services, sacraments, rites, ordinances, pastoral counseling, visitation, religious and morals education, ethics education, critical incident debriefings, and advising the commander on religion, ethics, morals, morale, and indigenous religions and customs.


operational stressChanges in physical or mental functioning or behavior resulting from the experience or consequences of military operations other than combat, during peacetime or war, and on land, at sea, or in the air.


Operational Stress Control and ReadinessA Marine Corps program that assigns mental health personnel directly as organic assets in ground combat units at the level of regiments, rather than attaching them to external medical treatment facilities or combat stress teams. Also called **OSCAR**.


operational support airlift(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A special classification of airlift operations that moves high-priority passengers and cargo with time, place, or time-sensitive/mission-capable requirements. Operational support airlift operations are normally conducted in direct support of the supported organization's requirements. Also called OSA.


operations control and analysis centerMain node for the command and control of radio battalion signals intelligence operations and the overall coordination of Marine air-ground task force signals intelligence operations. The center processes, analyzes, produces, and disseminates signals intelligence-derived information and directs the ground-based electronic warfare activities of the radio battalion. Also called **OCAC**.


operations in support of diplomatic effortsThose military actions that contribute to the furtherance of United States interest abroad.

out-sourcingProcurement of products or services from nonstandard sources that may involve commercial, contractual arrangements.

overbridgingA method used to reinforce, provide emergency repair, or augment existing bridges or bridge spans using standard bridging. In close combat this is typically provided through the employment of tactical bridging.

overhaulThe restoration of an item to a completely serviceable condition as prescribed by maintenance serviceability standards. See also rebuild; repair.


overhead fireFires delivered over the heads of friendly troops.


overwatch1. A tactical movement technique in which one element is positioned to support the movement of another element with immediate fire. 2. The tactical role of an element positioned to support the movement of another element with immediate fire. See also bounding overwatch;
traveling overwatch.



packaged operational rationsRations composed of semiperishable items specially packaged, precooked, or prepared for individual or group feeding when the tactical situation or training exercise does not permit the establishment of a field mess. Also called POR.


parallel planningPlanning by parallel chains of command refers to the planning procedures resulting from the close and continuous coordination necessary between corresponding naval and troop echelons.


***passive air defense**All measures, other than active air defense, taken to minimize the effectiveness of hostile air and missile threats against friendly forces and assets.

*patient decontaminationThe medically supervised removal and/or the neutralization of hazardous levels of chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear contamination to prevent further patient injury prior to admission into a medical treatment facility.


pattern recognitionThe ability to recognize the true significance and dynamics of a situation with less than complete information.

penetrateTo break through the enemy's defense and disrupt the enemy's defensive system.


*penetration1. A form of maneuver in which an attacking force seeks to rupture enemy defenses on a narrow front to disrupt the defensive system. 2. In intelligence usage, the recruitment of agents from within or the infiltration of agents and/or technical monitoring devices into an organization or group to acquire information or influence their activities.

*permanent change of stationThe assignment, detail, or transfer of a member or unit to a different duty station under competent orders that neither specify the duty as temporary, nor provide for further assignment to a new station, nor direct return to the old station.  Also called PCS.


phase(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A planning and execution tool that is used to divide an operation in duration or activity. A change in phase may involve a change in task or task organization. Phasing helps in planning and controlling and may be indicated by time, distance, terrain, or occurrence of an event.


physical security surveyA systematic evaluation of a facility or activity's overall security conducted by physical security personnel to identify security deficiencies and recommend active and passive corrective measures.

pickup zoneThe zone in which assault support aircraft land to pick up troops and supplies for movement to the landing zone. Also called PZ.


plane load/troop commanderA designated officer, or noncommissioned officer, who accompanies and is responsible for the aircraft load (equipment, supplies, and/or personnel).

plan for landing suppliesA plan peculiar to amphibious operations that prescribes the levels to be landed at prescribed times and sets forth the means by which the transfer from ship to shore is accomplished. It includes instructions concerning supplies to be landed with assault troops, prescribed loads, mobile loads for vehicles, floating dumps, supply by helicopter or other aircraft, selective and general unloading, and dump levels to be achieved during various phases.

plunging fireFires that strike the ground at a high angle so that the danger space is particularly confined to the beaten zone and the length of the beaten zone is shortened.

point of breachThe location at an obstacle where the creation of a lane is being attempted. Also called POB.


point of departure1. A specific place where a unit will cross the line of departure. 2. The designated location (typically an airport) outside of the disaster-affected area from which response personnel and resources will deploy to the disaster area.

point of penetrationThe location, identified on the ground, where the commander concentrates friendly force efforts at the enemy's weakest point to seize a foothold on the far side objective.

Also called **POP.**

point target1. A target of such small dimension that it requires the accurate placement of ordnance in order to neutralize or destroy it. 2. A target in which the ratio of radius of damage to target radius is equal to or greater than 5.


***police information**The available information concerning known and potential enemy and criminal threats and vulnerabilities collected during police activities, operations, and investigations to produce police intelligence. See also **police intelligence; policing**.


***police intelligence**The product from community policing and the application of systems, technologies, and processes that analyze applicable data, information, biometrics, forensics, and/or criminal records necessary for situational understanding to focus policing activities to achieve social order. See also **police information; policing**.


***policing**The employment of specialized techniques, methodology, principles, and capabilities including restrained application of force, employment of control measures, mitigation of threats, and engagement with key networks in the local population to establish, maintain, and/or restore civil order. (Note: Policing is complementary to law enforcement, but may occur with or without rule of law.) See also **law enforcement activities**.


populace and resources controlControl measures that assist host nation governments or de facto authorities in retaining control over their population centers, thus precluding complicating problems that may hinder joint mission accomplishment. Populace and resources control measures seek to identify, reduce, relocate, or access population resources that may impede or otherwise threaten joint operation success. Also called PRC.


portA place at which ships may discharge or receive their cargoes. It includes any port accessible to ships on the seacoast, navigable rivers, or inland waterways. (Note: The term "ports" should not be used in conjunction with air facilities which are designated as aerial ports, airports, etc.)
position1. A location or area occupied by a military unit. 2. The location of a weapon, unit, or individual from which fire is delivered upon a target. See also alternate position; primary position; supplementary position.

positive control(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
The tactical control of aircraft by a designated control unit, whereby the aircraft receives orders affecting its movements that immediately transfer responsibility for the safe navigation of the
aircraft to the unit issuing such orders. See also air control; Marine air command and control
system.

power projectionThe application of measured, precise offensive military force at a chosen time
and place, using maneuver and combined arms against enemy forces.

precision fireFire used for the attack and destruction of point targets.

precision logisticsA continuous program to enhance logistic support through improved logistic
response time, enhanced regional distribution, automated identification technology, enhanced acquisition strategies, and institutionalizing applicable commercial industry practices.

preplanned mission1. A task or support in accordance with a program, planned in advance of
the operation. 2. An airstrike on a target that can be anticipated sufficiently in advance to permit detailed mission coordination and planning.
prepositioned emergency suppliesSupplies designated by the commander, landing force to
meet expected critical needs for combat service support replenishment early in the ship-to-shore
movement. These serialized supplies, available for immediate delivery ashore, are organized into floating dumps and pre-staged helicopter-lifted supplies. Amphibious assault vehicles are not
normally employed as floating dumps. See also amphibious operation landing categories;
nonscheduled units; on-call waves; remaining landing force supplies; scheduled waves.

primary positionA position that provides the best means to accomplish the assigned mission.
See also alternate position; position; **supplementary position**.

principal direction of fireThe direction of fire assigned or designated as the main direction in
which a weapon will be oriented. It is selected based on the enemy, mission, terrain, and weapons'
capability. Also called PDF.

*principal end itemsThose items of equipment necessary for the accomplishment of the Marine
air-ground task force mission. Also called PEI.

principles of warThe most important nonphysical factors that affect the conduct of operations
at the strategic, operational, and tactical levels. The nine principles of war are mass, objective, offensive, security, economy of force, maneuver, unity of command, surprise, and simplicity.
priority intelligence requirement(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps
amplification follows.) An intelligence requirement associated with a decision that will critically
affect the overall success of the command's mission. Also called PIR.

priority of fireGuidance to a fire support planner to organize and employ fire support means in
accordance with the relative importance of the maneuver unit's missions.
*probable line of deploymentAn easily recognized line selected on the ground where attacking units deploy in  assault formation prior to beginning an attack. Also called PLD.

Note: Notes in text are not part of the definition, they are explanatory in nature.


procedural controlA method of airspace control that relies on a combination of previously agreed and promulgated orders and procedures. (DOD Dictionary) See air control; Marine air command and control system.


procedures(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The particular courses or modes of action for performing certain functions.

production managementEncompasses determining the scope, content, and format of each intelligence product; developing a plan and schedule for the development of each product; assigning priorities among the various production requirements; allocating processing, exploitation, and production resources; and integrating production efforts with intelligence collection and dissemination.

professional military educationThe systematic instruction of professionals in subjects that will enhance their knowledge of the science and art of war. Also called PME.


profile loading planA distorted profile view of the ship's stowing cargo compartments in which troop cargo is stowed. It is included in the completed loading plan for transports and cargo ships but not for landing ships or submarines. The form includes an estimate of unloading time for each hold.

program of targetsA number of individual targets or groups of targets, or both, planned on targets of similar nature and fired on schedule, listed in an artillery fire plan table.

proof(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Maine Corps amplification follows.) The verification that a lane is free of mines or explosive hazards and that the width and trafficability at the point of breach are suitable for the passing force.


protectTo prevent observation, engagement, or interference with a force or location.


protective wireBarbed wire entanglements located to prevent surprise assaults from points close to the defensive positions. They are close enough to be observed day and night and far enough from friendly positions to keep the enemy beyond normal hand grenade range. Protective wire is normally positioned 50 to 75 meters from friendly positions. See also **tactical wire**.


protocolA formal set of specifications governing the format and control of interaction among terminals communicating over a network.

*public affairs (PA)*Replaced by communication strategy and operations (COMMSTRAT)*.

*purple kill boxA fire support and airspace coordination measure that facilitates attacking surface targets with subsurface-to-surface, surface-to-surface, and air-to-surface munitions without further coordination with the area of operation commander's headquarters. Also called **PKB.** See also blue kill box.


pursuitAn offensive operation designed to catch or cut off a hostile force attempting to escape, with the aim of destroying it.

pursuit by fireWhen the assault through the assigned objective is completed, the squad fires upon withdrawing enemy forces until they are no longer visible or are beyond effective range.


## Q


quadripartite standardization agreementStandardization agreement between the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. New Zealand participates in an observer/signatory status as part of the Australian delegation. Also called **QSTAG**.


quartering partyA group of unit representatives dispatched to a probable new site of operations in advance of the main body to secure, reconnoiter, and organize an area prior to the main body's arrival and occupation.


quick reaction forceDesignated forces deployed and ready for any immediate response to any crisis requirement that occurs for the security of its checkpoints, outposts, observation posts, and work sites and to support patrols, meetings, and convoys in a designated area of operation. Also called QRF.


## R


radar controlThe operation of air traffic in a radar environment in which heading, altitude, and airspeed of the aircraft are directed by the control facility and radar separation from other traffic is provided. See air control; **Marine air command and control system**.


radiation monitor teamA team assigned to detect the presence of radiation and measure it with RADIAC [radiation detection, indication, and computation] instruments.

radio relayPoint-to-point radio transmission in which the signals are received and retransmitted by one or more intermediate radio stations. The retransmission may be either manual or automatic.


raid(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) 1. An attack, usually small scale, involving a penetration of hostile territory for a specific purpose other than seizing and holding terrain and ending with a planned withdrawal upon completion of the assigned mission. 2. In amphibious operations, conducted as an independent operation or in support of other operations, such as another landing, land operations, or air or naval operation. When required, they are conducted by stealth or appropriately supported so that they resemble the early stages of an amphibious assault, except they include a provision for withdrawal. 3. In artillery operations, the movement of an artillery unit (or portion of that unit) to a designated firing position to attack a high-payoff target with artillery fires followed by the immediate withdrawal to a safe location. See also **limited scale raid**.


rally point1. An easily identifiable point on the ground at which units can reassemble and reorganize if they become dispersed. 2. A planned or hasty location where a separated flight joins up. Also called RP.


rapid response planning processA time-constrained version of the full, six-step Marine Corps Planning Process developed to enable the Marine expeditionary unit to plan and begin execution of certain tasks within a 6-hour time period. Also called **R2P2**.


reachback(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The ability to exploit resources, capabilities, expertise, etc., not physically located in the theater or a joint operations area, when established.


reactive targetThe method used for targeting targets of opportunity. It is used when time and situation do not allow for targeting; i.e., during deliberate targeting, during an attack, when defending against an attack, or upon discovery of the location of a target such as a radio jammer, tank, or antiaircraft weapon.

rear areaThat area extending forward from a command's rear boundary to the rear of the area assigned to the command's subordinate units. This area is provided primarily for the performance of combat service support functions.


rear area securityThe measures taken before, during, and/or after an enemy airborne attack, sabotage action, infiltration, guerrilla action, and/or initiation of psychological or propaganda warfare to minimize the effects thereof. Also called RAS.


rear guard1. The rearmost elements of an advancing or a withdrawing force. It has the following functions: to protect the rear of a column from hostile forces; during the withdrawal, to delay the enemy; during the advance, to keep supply routes open. 2. A security detachment that a moving ground force details to the rear to keep it informed and covered.


rear operationsMilitary actions conducted to support and permit force sustainment and to provide security for such actions. See also **close operations; deep operations**.


reasonable assuranceDuring each close air support mission, an acceptable level of risk under which the supported ground commander allows aircrews to attack targets and release ordnance without positive control.


rebuildThe restoration of an item to a standard as nearly as possible to its original condition in appearance, performance, and life expectancy. See also **overhaul; repair**.


reconnaissance by fireA reconnaissance technique in which fire is placed on a suspected enemy position to cause the enemy to disclose a presence by movement or return of fire.

reconnaissance exploitation reportA standard message format used to report the results of a tactical air reconnaissance mission. Whenever possible the report should include the interpretation of sensor imagery. Also called **RECCEXREP**.


*reconnaissance in force1. A deliberate attack made to obtain information and to locate and test enemy dispositions, strengths, and reactions. It is used when knowledge of the enemy is vague and there is insufficient time or resources to develop the situation. 2. An offensive operation designed to discover and/or test the enemy's strength or to obtain other information.


reconnoiter1. To obtain, by visual observation or other methods, information about the activities and resources of an enemy or potential enemy. 2. To secure data about the meteorological, hydrographic, or geographic characteristics of a particular area.


reconstitution1. Those actions that commanders plan and implement to restore units to a desired level of combat effectiveness commensurate with mission requirements and available resources. Reconstitution operations include regeneration and reorganization. 2. In maritime prepositioning force operations, the methodical approach to restore the maritime prepositioned equipment and supplies aboard the maritime prepositioning ships squadron to full mission capable status. See also regeneration; reorganization.


recovery operations(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) 1. Those operations executed to recover personnel and/or equipment. 2. Extricating damaged or disabled equipment and moving it to locations where repairs can be made. Recovery is the primary responsibility of the using unit.


redeployment dayThe day established by the combatant commander that the Marine Corps forces and Navy forces units begin redeployment and reconstitution operations. Also called **R-day**.


reduceA mobility task to create and mark lanes through, over, or around an obstacle to allow the attacking force to accomplish its mission.


reduction areaA number of adjacent points of breach that are under the control of the breaching commander.

regenerationSignificant replacement of personnel, equipment, and supplies in an attempt to restore a unit to full operational capability as rapidly as possible. See also reconstitution;
reorganization.


reinforcementThe expansion of a Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF). It includes the forward-phasing of additional forces, and it is the traditional approach to forming a larger MAGTF
from a smaller initial force whereby a single MAGTF is expanded to a larger MAGTF through the addition of personnel, equipment, and organizations by sea and/or airlift. This approach can be used to combine multiple MAGTFs by only deploying those elements required in the area of operations.


religious accommodationThe reasonable and good faith effort to support religious requirements within the boundaries of good order and discipline.


religious ministryProfessional duties performed by Navy chaplains and designated personnel, to include facilitating and/or providing for religious needs, caring for all, and advising the command. Also called RM.


religious ministry professionalAn individual endorsed by a Department of Defense-listed religious organization to represent the religious organization and to conduct its religious observances or ceremonies in the institutional settings of the naval Services. Each religious ministry professional is a fully qualified member of the clergy for those religious organizations that have a tradition of professional clergy or the equivalent. Also called RMP.


religious ministry team1. A team that is composed of one or more chaplain(s) and one or more religious program specialist(s), and other designated members (e.g., appointed lay leaders and military volunteer personnel) to provide religious ministry. The team works together in designing, implementing, and conducting the command religious program. 2. A basic religious ministry team consists of one chaplain and one religious program specialist. Other team members could include lay leaders, command religious program volunteers, contract religious ministry professionals, chaplain office federal employees, and other command religious program contracted professionals.

Also called RMT.


religious offering fundThe system by which monetary collections offered by religious service participants in the context of worship are managed. Also called **ROF.**

religious organizationAn entity that is organized and functions primarily to perform religious ministries to a non-military constituency and that has met the religious purposes test of Section 501 (c) (3) of Title 26, United States Code (2000), and holds current status as a Section 501 (c) (3)
Schedule A organization. Religious organizations possess ecclesiastical authority to endorse and withdraw endorsement for religious ministry professionals serving under their authority. Also called RO.


religious program specialistA Navy enlisted assistant who supports a chaplain in planning, programming, administering, and coordinating the command religious program. A religious program specialist is a combatant who provides force protection and physical security for a chaplain in operational environments. Also called RP.

religious servicesWorship events, other than divine services, conducted as part of the command religious program and in the manner and forms of religious organizations and led by lay leaders, contract religious ministry professionals, or other authorized non-uniformed personnel.

Participation in religious services shall be voluntary, with the exception of personnel present in a support activity.

remaining landing force suppliesReplenishment supplies and equipment not included in a unit commander's prescribed loads or floating dumps. These supplies are usually placed ashore during the general loading period, but can be selectively dispatched to replenish floating dumps or dumps ashore. See also amphibious operation landing categories; nonscheduled units; on-call waves;
prepositioned emergency supplies; scheduled waves.


reorganization1. Action taken to shift internal resources within a degraded unit to increase its level of combat effectiveness. 2. In administration, the realignment of force structure. See also reconstitution; regeneration.


repairThe restoration of an item to serviceable condition through correction of a specific failure or unserviceable condition. See also overhaul; rebuild.


repair and replenishment pointA combat service support installation, normally in forward areas near the supported unit, established to support a mechanized or other rapidly moving force. It may be either a prearranged point or a hastily selected point to rearm, refuel, or provide repair services to the supported force. Also called RRP.


reserved obstacle(See DOD Dictionary, **reserved obstacles**, for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Any obstacle that is deemed critical to the plan, such as preventing the premature closure of a mobility corridor, for which execution authority is reserved by the designating commander.

restraint(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) 1.

Something that a commander is prohibited from doing that may limit freedom of action. 2.

Something that a commander prohibits subordinates from doing. See also **constraint.** (Note:
Restraints are included in the rules of engagement, commander's guidance, or instructions from higher headquarters.)

*retail inventoryThe level of inventory that consists of consumer and intermediate inventories of supplies or materiel held below the wholesale level. See also consumer inventory, intermediate inventory, wholesale inventory.


retainTo occupy and hold a terrain feature to ensure it is free of enemy occupation or use.


retirementAn operation in which a force out of contact moves away from the enemy.


retrograde(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Any movement or maneuver of a command to the rear, or away from the enemy.

risk1. Probability and severity of loss linked to hazards. 2. The chance of hazard or bad consequences resulting in exposure to possible injury or loss. Risk level is expressed in terms of hazard probability or severity. See also **risk management**.


risk management(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The five steps of risk management are identify the hazards, assess the hazards, develop controls and make risk decision, implement controls, and supervise and evaluate. See also **risk**.


river crossingA type of gap crossing operation required before ground combat power can be projected and sustained across a water obstacle. It is a centrally planned and controlled offensive operation that requires the allocation of external crossing means and a force dedicated to the security of the bridgehead.

riverine assault operationsThose strike operations conducted in a riverine area, characterized by the employment of riverine Navy and Marine Corps forces.

riverine campaignA series of related riverine and supporting operations conducted in a riverine environment and designed to accomplish a common objective, normally within a given time and space.

riverine landing areaA segment of a waterway which includes one or more river landing sites.

Both banks of the waterway are normally included in the riverine landing area.

riverine landing pointA point within a river landing site where one river craft can land.


riverine landing siteA specified location along a waterway containing one or more river landing points.


riverine Marine Corps forceThe Marine Corps component of the mobile riverine force.


roleThe broad, enduring purposes for which the Services and the United States Special Operations Command were established by Congress in Title 10, United States Code.

route clearanceThe detection, investigation, marking and reporting, and neutralization of explosive hazards and other obstacles along a defined route to enable assured mobility for the maneuver commander. It is a combined arms operation that relies on a reconnaissance of the route to be cleared.


route reconnaissanceA directed effort to obtain detailed information of a specified route and all terrain from which the enemy could influence movement along that route.


ruptureTo create a gap in enemy defensive positions quickly.



## S


salientAn outward bend in the trace of the forward line of friendly troops or on the outside bend of a river.


scheduled wavesUnits for which the time and place of landing are predetermined. They consist of assault amphibians, landing craft, or helicopters/tiltrotor aircraft that carry the assault troops of the Marine air-ground task force to their initial combat supplies. Antiaircraft units are generally employed as scheduled waves. After the waterborne waves have crossed the line of departure, the landing of scheduled waves proceeds without change, except in an emergency. Scheduled waves land in accordance with the assault schedule. Amphibious assault vehicles and their embarked landing forces are typically landed in scheduled waves because their time and place of landing are predetermined. See also amphibious operation landing categories; nonscheduled units; on-call waves; prepositioned emergency supplies; remaining landing force supplies.


screen1. A security element whose primary task is to observe, identify, and report information, and only fight in self-protection. 2. A form of security operation that primarily provides early warning to the protected force.

sealift liaison elementA task organization located at the seaport of embarkation and/or debarkation, under the control of the Marine expeditionary force and/or Marine air-ground task force, which coordinates between the arriving and/or departing Marine Corps forces and/or Marine air-ground task force and the beach operations group/port operations group. Also called SLE.


*secondary control officerThe designated officer embarked aboard the secondary control ship who assumes primary control officer duties in an emergency or if the primary control ship has to go off. Also called SCO.


sectorAn area designated by boundaries within which a unit operates, and for which it is responsible.


sector air defense commander(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A commander designated the responsibility for an air defense sector within a region. Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to, coordinating actions between regions and sectors; evaluating the results of engagements within the designated region or sector; forwarding observations and results of engagements within the assigned region or sector to the area air defense commander (AADC); requesting from the AADC or, when authorized, directing changes to the air defense alert and weapons release conditions commensurate to the threat; and, when necessary, requesting from the AADC additional air defense assets. Sector air defense commanders further distribute air defense aircraft to control agencies within their sector.  The controlling agencies, in turn, are responsible for executing the air defense mission through the coordination, control, and integration of aircraft and surface-to-air weapon systems under their direction. Also called **SADC**.


sector air defense facilityAn adjunct facility to the tactical air operations center that provides the equipment necessary for the sector air defense commander to perform antiair warfare combat coordination functions. Sector air defense facility workstations emulate the tactical air operations center situational and menu displays and allow for shared use of tactical air operations module voice communication assets. Also called **SADF**.


sector of fireA defined area that is required to be covered by the fire of individual or crew-served weapons or the weapons of a unit.

*secureTo gain possession of a position, terrain feature, piece of infrastructure, or civil asset, with or without force, to prevent its destruction or loss by enemy action.

***secure area**An area that has not received hostile fire for 72 hours and in which assault support aircraft will most likely not be subject to fire during the approach, landing, takeoff, and departure.


security areaThe area that begins at the forward edge of the battle area and extends as far to the front and flanks as security forces are deployed, normally to the forward boundary of the area of operations. Forces in the security area conduct reconnaissance to furnish information on the enemy and to delay, deceive, and disrupt the enemy.


security forceThe detachment deployed between the main body and the enemy (to the front, flanks, or rear of the main body) tasked with the protection of the main body. The security force may be assigned a screening, guarding, or covering mission.


seize(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) To clear, occupy, and control a designated area.


selective interchangeThe controlled removal and replacement of a serviceable repair part or component from one item to satisfy a deficiency in another item.

senior watch officerThe specific individual selected by the aviation combat element commander to function as the commander's direct representative in the tactical air command center. The senior watch officer, to the extent of authority delegated by the aviation combat element commander, is responsible for the overall functioning of the tactical air command center and coordination of the aviation combat element commander's battlestaff. Also called SWO.


sensorEquipment that detects, and may indicate, and/or record objects and activities by means of energy or particles emitted, reflected, or modified by objects.


sensor dataData derived from sensors whose primary mission is surveillance or target acquisition, such as air surveillance radars, counterbattery radars, and remote ground sensors.

separate companyA company that does not form part of a battalion and operates as an independent unit in the field.

series of targetsA number of targets and/or groups of targets fired in a predetermined sequence in support of a scheme of maneuver.

shapingThe use of lethal and nonlethal activities to influence events in a manner that changes the general condition of war to an advantage.

shaping actionsThe lethal and nonlethal activities conducted throughout the battlespace to attack an enemy capability or force or to influence the enemy commander's decision making. See also **decisive action; sustaining actions.** (Note: Shaping actions are part of a purpose-based battlespace framework.)
shaping the battlespaceActions taken to set up conditions for decisive action. A commander shapes the battlespace primarily with fires, although the commander may use any means, such as deception, special operations, electronic warfare, the action of friendly indigenous forces, or military information support operations.


shipfillThe ordnance aboard a ship in support of the ship's own armament, such as surface-toair missiles on a cruiser. The allowance may include combat and/or training ordnance.

shipfill allowance listAn approved war allowance list of ordnance required to support the ship's own permanently installed armament, authorized small arms weapons, and distress and signaling pyrotechnic requirements. Shipfill allowance lists contain full wartime allowances of service ordnance designated to fill the ship's magazines to capacity without regard to ordnance item availability in stock.

*simultaneous activitiesThe continuous,  concurrent combinations of offensive, defensive, and stability operations or defense support of civil authorities tasks, as appropriate, to a given mission.


site commanderA group or squadron commanding officer or detachment officer in charge designated by and directly accountable to the aviation combat element commander for everything that takes place within the air base. The site commander's authority and responsibilities are not restricted to rear area operations but include all operational functions supporting the base including force closure and deployment to and from the site and must be intimately involved in the detailed planning of all units to ensure the aviation combat element commander's assigned mission timelines are met.


situational awarenessKnowledge and understanding of the current situation that promotes timely, relevant, and accurate assessment of friendly, enemy, and other operations within the battlespace in order to facilitate decision-making. An informational perspective and skill that foster an ability to determine quickly the context and relevance of events that are unfolding. Also called SA.


situational understandingThe product of applying analysis and synthesis to relevant information to determine the relationship among the mission, enemy, terrain and weather, troops and support availabletime available variables to facilitate decision-making.


situation template(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A series of projections that portray, based on enemy doctrine, the most probable disposition and location of enemy forces within constraints imposed by weather and terrain.

six containers togetherA module unit that consists of five water or fuel tank modules and one pump module. Six containers together modules attach to form a 20-foot equivalent unit
(International Organization for Standardization container). The modules form a liquid distribution source that can be transported as a unit or quickly taken apart for rapid deployment or relocation.

Also called **SIXCON**.


special patrol insertion and extractionA method to insert and/or extract troops by helicopter from water or rough terrain conditions. Also called **SPIE**.


special purpose Marine air-ground task forceA Marine air-ground task force organized, trained, and equipped with narrowly focused capabilities. It is designed to accomplish a specific mission, often of limited scope and duration. It may be any size, but normally it is a relatively small forcethe size of a Marine expeditionary unit or smaller. In a joint or multinational environment, it may contain other Service or multinational forces assigned or attached to the Marine air-ground task force. Also called **special purpose MAGTF; SPMAGTF.** See also aviation combat element; command element; ground combat element; logistics combat element; Marine airground task force; Marine expeditionary brigade; Marine expeditionary force; Marine expeditionary force (forward); Marine expeditionary unit.


specified task(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A task delineated in the mission order received from higher headquarters. See also essential task; implied task; tactical tasks.


split baseTwo or more portions of the same force conducting or supporting operations from separate physical locations.


spoiling attackA tactical maneuver employed to seriously impair a hostile attack while the enemy is in the process of forming or assembling for an attack. A spoiling attack is usually an offensive action conducted in the defense.


staff cognizanceThe broad responsibility and authority over designated staff functions assigned to each general or executive staff officers (or their subordinate staff officers) in their area of primary interest. These responsibilities and authorities can range from coordination within the staff to the assignment or delegation to the staff officer by the commander to exercise the commander's authority for a specified warfighting function or subfunction. Staff cognizance includes the responsibility for effective use of available resources and may include the authority for planning the employment of, organizing, assigning tasks, coordinating, and controlling forces for the accomplishment of assigned missions. Marine Corps orders and doctrine provide the notional staff cognizance for general or executive staff officers, which may be modified by the commander to meet mission requirements.


standard bridgingAny bridging derived from manufactured bridge systems and components that are designed to be transportable, easily constructed, and reused.


standing operating procedureA set of instructions covering those features of operations that lend themselves to a definite or standardized procedure without loss of effectiveness. The procedure is applicable unless ordered otherwise. Also called **SOP.**

strike coordination and reconnaissance(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A mission flown for the purpose of acquiring and reporting deep air support targets and coordinating armed reconnaissance or air interdiction missions upon those targets. Also called **SCAR**.


strike operationAn operation designed to inflict damage on, seize, or destroy an objective.


strong pointA key point in a defensive position, usually strongly fortified and heavily armed with automatic weapons, around which other positions are grouped for its protection.


successive positionsDefensive fighting positions located one after another on the battlefield. A
force can conduct a delaying action from successive delaying positions.

supplementary positionA position that provides the best means to accomplish a task that cannot be accomplished from the primary or alternate position. See also alternate position; position; primary position.


support bridgingBridges used to establish semi-permanent or permanent support to planned movements and road networks. They are normally used to replace tactical bridging when necessary.


support by fireTo engage the enemy by direct fire to support a maneuvering force using overwatch or by establishing a base of fire. The supporting force does not capture enemy forces or terrain.

supported activities supply systemThe automated supply management system specifically developed to support the Fleet Marine Force. It is designed to accomplish supply accounting for all elements of a Marine expeditionary force and it minimizes the requirement to perform manual accounting operations. Also called **SASSY**.


supporting distanceThe distance between two units that can be traveled in time for one to come to the aid of the other.


supporting effortDesignated subordinate unit(s) whose mission is designed to directly contribute to the success of the main effort.


*supporting establishmentThose personnel, bases, and activities that support the Fleet Marine Forces. See also **Fleet Marine Forces; Marine Corps forces; Marine forces.**

supporting rangeThe distance one unit may be geographically separated from a second unit yet remain within the maximum range of the second unit's weapons systems.


support to civil administrationActions that help continue or stabilize management by a governing body of a foreign nation's civil structure by assisting an established government or by establishing military authority over an occupied population. Support to civil administration consists of planning, coordinating, advising, or assisting with those activities that reinforce or restore a civil administration that supports United States and multinational objectives. Also called SCA.


*suppressTo temporarily degrade an opposing force or the performance of a weapons system below the level needed to fulfill its mission objectives.


suppressive fireFires on or about a weapons system to degrade its performance below the level needed to fulfill its mission objectives, during the conduct of the fire mission.


*surveillance(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
The systematic visual or aural observation of an enemy force, adversary, named area of interest, or an area and the activities within it to collect intelligence required to confirm or deny enemy/adversary courses of action or identify their critical vulnerabilities and limitations.


surveillance and reconnaissance cellPrimary element responsible for the supervision of Marine air-ground task force intelligence collection operations. Directs, coordinates, and monitors intelligence collection operations conducted by organic, attached, and direct support collection assets. Also called **SARC**.


survey, liaison, and reconnaissance partyA self-sustaining task organization formed from the Marine air-ground task force and Navy support element. It conducts reconnaissance, establishes liaison with in-theater authorities, and initiates preparations for the arrival of the main body of the fly-in echelon and the maritime prepositioning ships squadron. The survey, liaison, and reconnaissance party normally deploys to the arrival and assembly area under Marine air-ground task force cognizance. Also called **SLRP**.


survey teamA team that determines the extent and dose rates of radiation in an area.


survivability(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The degree to which a system is able to avoid or withstand a man-made hostile environment without suffering an abortive impairment of its ability to accomplish its designated mission.

***survivability operations**Those protection activities that alter the physical environment by providing or improving cover, camouflage, and concealment.

sustained operations ashoreThe employment of Marine Corps forces on land for an extended duration. It can occur with or without sustainment from the sea. Also called SOA.


sustaining actionsActivities conducted to prepare and support friendly forces (e.g., planning, logistics, force protection) that promote unity of effort and extend operational reach. See also decisive action; shaping actions. (Note: Sustaining actions are part of a purpose-based battlespace framework.)

*synchronization matrixA format for the staff to record results of wargaming and synchronize the course of action across time, space, and purpose in relation to an enemy's and/or adversary's course of action.

systems architectureDefines the physical connection, location, and identification of key nodes, circuits, networks, warfighting platforms, etc., and specifies system and component performance parameters. The systems architecture is constructed to satisfy operational architecture requirements per standards defined in the technical architecture. The systems architecture shows how multiple systems within a subject area link and interoperate, and it may describe the internal construction or operations of particular systems within the architecture. See also **joint technical architecture;**
operational architecture; technical architecture.


## T


tactical air command centerThe principal United States Marine Corps air command and control agency from which air operations and air defense warning functions are directed. Also called Marine TACC.


tactical air control party(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A subordinate operational component of a tactical air control system organic to infantry divisions, regiments, and battalions. Tactical air control parties establish and maintain facilities for liaison and communications between parent units and airspace control agencies, inform and advise the ground unit commander on the employment of supporting aircraft, and request and control air support. Also called **TACP**.


tactical air coordinator (airborne)(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Within the Marine Corps air command and control system, the senior air coordinator having authority over all aircraft operating within the assigned area. The tactical air coordinator (airborne), considered an airborne extension of the direct air support center and fire support coordination center, contributes to coordination among the tactical air control parties, airborne forward air controllers, and the fire direction of artillery and naval gunfire. Also called TAC(A).


tactical airfield fuel dispensing systemA tactical aircraft refueling system deployed by a Marine air-ground task force in support of air operations at an expeditionary airfield or a forward arming and refueling point. This expeditionary system provides bulk fuel storage and dispensing facilities at airfields not having permanently installed fuel systems and supports fuel dispensing at established airfields. Also called **TAFDS**.


tactical airliftAirlift that provides the immediate and responsive air movement and delivery of combat troops and supplies directly into objective areas through airlanding, extraction, airdrop, and other air delivery techniques; and the air logistic support of all theater forces, including those engaged in combat operations, to meet specific theater objectives and requirements.

tactical bridgingBridges used for the immediate mobility support of combat maneuver forces in close combat. They are very often employed under the threat of direct or indirect fire and are intended to be used multiple times for short periods.


tactical fire directionIn artillery, the control of one or more units in the selection of targets to attack, designation of the unit or units to fire, selection of the method of attack, and selection of the most suitable ammunition for the mission.


tactical intelligence(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) Intelligence concerned primarily with the location, capabilities, and possible intentions of enemy units on the battlefield and the tactical aspects of terrain and weather within the battlespace.

tactical logisticsThe art of sustaining forces in combat. At the tactical level of war, logistics involves the performance of supply, maintenance, transportation, health services, general engineering, and other services with resources immediately or imminently available. Tactical logistics draws upon resources made available at the operational level and focuses on the provision of support within the force.

tactical mobilityThe ability to move within an engagement or battle.


***tactical road march**A movement used to relocate units within an area of operation in order to prepare for combat operations.


*tactical tasksThe defined actions, based on unit capabilities, that a commander may take to accomplish the mission. Tactical tasks may be specified, implied, or essential. See also essential task; implied task; specified task.


tactical wire1. Barbed wire positioned on the friendly side of machine gun final protective lines.

2. Barbed wire barriers used within a perimeter to limit and canalize penetration by enemy groups or individuals. These barriers can be as simple as a single strand of wire 3 to 4 feet high, placed to prevent a direct approach to vital installations, and covered by automatic weapon fire. The barriers are constructed as inconspicuously as possible and relocated periodically to disrupt enemy plans.

See also **protective wire**.


target listThose targets maintained and promulgated by the senior echelon of command that are to be engaged by supporting arms, as distinguished from a "list of targets" (confirmed, suspected, or possible) maintained by any echelon for informational and planning purposes.


target precedence listThe commander's list of types of mobile potential targets arranged in the order in which they are to be attacked. It establishes target priorities for reactive targeting.

target reference point(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) An easily recognizable point on the ground (either natural or man-made) used to initiate, distribute, and control fires. Also called TRP.


target selection standardsA list of requirements (time, location accuracy, posture) that must be met before attacking a specific target.  Also called TSS.


target signatureThe visible or audible effects produced when a weapon is fired or piece of equipment is operated, such as noise, smoke, flame, heat, debris, or an electronic emission, that is detectable and traceable to the weapon/equipment producing it.

target synchronization matrix1. A document that coordinates and synchronizes all target collection assets. 2. A tool used to establish the targeting objectives and synchronize the decide, detect, deliver, and assess engagements for the targeting period. Also called TSM.


target system assessment(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A combination of physical damage assessment and function damage assessment, it is a more permanent assessment of whether desired effects on a given target have been produced.

task force(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A
temporary grouping of units, under one commander, formed for the purpose of carrying out a specific operation or mission.

task organization(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A temporary grouping of forces designed to accomplish a particular mission. Task organization involves the distribution of available assets to subordinate control headquarters by attachment or by placing assets in direct support or under the operational control of the subordinate.


taskingThe process of translating the allocation into orders and passing these orders to the units involved. Each order normally contains sufficient detailed instructions to enable the executing agency to accomplish the mission successfully. See air direction; Marine air command and control system.


technical architectureA minimal set of rules governing the arrangement, interaction, and interdependence of the parts or elements whose purpose is to ensure that a conformant system satisfies a specified set of requirements. Identifies the services, interfaces, standards, and their relationships and provides the technical guidelines to implement systems upon which engineering specifications are based, common building blocks are built, and product lines are developed. See also **joint technical architecture; operational architecture; systems architecture**.


technical assistance and advisory teamAn organization under the operational control of the supported Marine air-ground task force (MAGTF), composed of Blount Island Command personnel and contractors that advise the MAGTF commander on the offload, issuing equipment/materiel, and proper documentation and accountability between Blount Island Command and the gaining supported MAGTF. Also called **TAAT**.


technical controlThe performance of specialized/professional service or the exercise of professional guidance/direction through the establishment of policies and procedures. Also called TECHCON.


technical fire directionThe conversion of requests for fire to appropriate firing data and fire commands.

techniques(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The general and detailed methods used by troops and/or commanders to perform assigned missions and functions; specifically, the methods of using equipment and personnel.


tempoThe relative speed and rhythm of military operations over time with respect to the enemy.


temporary hospitalizationHospitalization services that provide treatment facilities for holding the sick, wounded, and injured for a limited time. This usually does not exceed 96 hours. Within the Fleet Marine Force, only the medical battalion has the staff and equipment to provide temporary hospitalization.

tenant unitAny unit conducting aviation operations, ground operations, or supporting operations from a site or receiving a service at a site is considered a tenant and may be required to support aviation, ground, or supporting operations to receive service at that site.


terminal control(See DOD Dictionary, part 1 for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) The authority to direct the maneuver of aircraft that are delivering ordnance, passengers, or cargo to a specific location or target. See air control; Marine air command and control system.


throughput(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) In logistics, the flow of sustainability assets in support of military operations, at all levels of war, from point of origin to point of use. It involves the movement of personnel and materiel over lines of communications using established pipelines and distribution systems.


throughput systemThe logistic infrastructure that links production logistics to consumer logistics and the sources of the forces' military capability to the sustainability of those forces. It consists of the associated distribution systems (ports, bases, and airfields), civilian agencies, and supporting forces and service troops.

time of attackThe hour at which the attack is to be launched. If a line of departure is prescribed, it is the hour at which the line is to be crossed by the leading elements of the attack.

time on stationThe time that an aircraft can actually spend performing its assigned mission. It does not include the time transiting to and from the operating site. Also called TOS.


time on target(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.)
The local time, expressed in minutes after the hour, when the forward air controller desires ordnance impact on target. Also called TOT.


total asset visibilityThe ability to access on demand the status and location of any required materiel. Also called TAV.


traffic control pointA designated spot on the ground, road, or trail network used to control and influence the flow of pedestrian, vehicular, or boat traffic to execute tactical tasks and generate effects. A traffic control point is hasty or deliberate in nature. Its purpose is friendly, terrain, enemy, or environmentally oriented. Also called TCP.


training in an urban environmentA select training program for maritime special purpose force assets that is conducted in highly urbanized cities. Also called **TRUE**.


training taskA direct training activity that pertains to an individual Marine. A task is composed of three major components: a description of what is to be done, a condition, and a standard.

train the forceThe scope of activities and efforts that prepare and teach friendly forces to operate in the improvised explosive device environment. It is this line of operations that effectively enables the Marine to conduct both countering threat networks and defeat the device efforts. The train the force efforts are continuous through predeployment training, mission rehearsal exercises, operational deployments, and the lessons learned process. Also called TtF.


transfer to civil controlThe handover of civil government responsibilities from friendly force military authorities to civil authorities; civil authorities may include representatives of United States Government agencies, intergovernmental organizations, and/or host nation government entities.

transitional military authority(See DOD Dictionary for core definition. Marine Corps amplification follows.) A temporary military government exercising the functions of civil administration in the absence of a legitimate civil authority. It exercises temporary executive, legislative, and judicial authority in a foreign territory.

transportation supportIn Marine air-ground task force operations, that support needed to put personnel and materiel in the correct location at the proper time to start and maintain operations.

*traveling overwatchA movement technique used when contact with enemy forces is possible.

The trailing element, separated by a short distance, keys its movement to the lead element and terrain and pauses for short periods to overwatch the lead element. The overwatch distance is such that, should the enemy engage the lead element, it will not prevent the trailing element from firing or moving to support the lead element. See also **bounding overwatch; overwatch.**

true airspeedEquivalent airspeed corrected for error due to air density (altitude and temperature).

***turn**An obstacle effect that integrates fire planning and obstacle effort to drive an enemy formation from one avenue of approach to an adjacent avenue of approach or into an engagement area.


## U


uncommitted forceA force that is not in contact with an enemy and is not already deployed on a specific mission or course of action.


United States naval forcesAll forces and Reserve Components of the US Navy, the US Marine Corps, and the US Coast Guard when operating as a part of the Navy.

Universal Naval Task ListA combination of the Navy Tactical Task List and the Marine Corps Task List that contains a comprehensive hierarchical listing of the tasks that can be performed by a naval force, describes the variables in the environment that can affect the performance of a given task, and provides measures of performance that can be applied by a commander to set a standard of expected performance. Also called **UNTL.**

urban area of operationsA concentration of structures, facilities, and populations, such as villages, cities, and towns, that form the economic and cultural focus for the surrounding area.


urban operationA military operation conducted where man-made construction and high population density are the dominant features. Also called UO.


***unserviceable**Items or components in a condition unfit for use, excluding clothing and nonrepairable items, that can be restored to a serviceable condition after repair, calibration, or rebuild.


## V


vertical envelopmentA tactical maneuver in which troops that are air-dropped, air-landed, or inserted via air assault, attack the rear and flanks of a force, in effect cutting off or encircling the force.


virtual staffA capability to execute certain staff functions without the physical presence of the respective staff members.

visionA guiding image of successa succinct description of the ideal end statethat provides direction for development of strategy.

visit, board, search, and seizureMaritime boarding actions and tactics designed to capture enemy vessels; combat terrorism, piracy, and smuggling; and conduct customs, safety, and other inspections as employed by modern navies, marine, and maritime services, and military and police forces. Also called **VBSS**.


visual reconnaissanceThe use of visual observation to obtain information about the activities and resources of an enemy or the physical characteristics of a given area. Visual reconnaissance supplements operational information concerning friendly forces and aids offensive actions such as artillery, naval surface fire support, or air support missions.


***vital area**A designated area or installation to be defended by air defense units. Also called VA.


## W


waiting areaA location adjacent to the route or axis that may be used for the concealment of vehicles, troops, and equipment while an element is waiting to resume movement. Waiting areas are normally located on both banks (or sides) close to crossing areas.


warA violent clash of interests between or among organized groups characterized by the use of military force.


*warfighting functionsThe seven mutually supporting military activities integrated in the conduct of all military operations. The seven warfighting functions are command and control, fires, force protection, information, intelligence, logistics, and maneuver. See also command and control; fires; force protection; intelligence; logistics; maneuver.


wargamingA step-by-step process of action, reaction, and counteraction for visualizing the execution of each friendly course of action in relation to enemy/adversary courses of action and reactions. It explores the possible branches and sequels to the primary plan resulting in a final plan and decision points for critical actions.


war reserve munitions requirementThe sum of combat requirements, strategic readiness requirements, and current operations/forward presence requirements.

*wholesale inventoryAn inventory (stock), regardless of funding sources, over which the material manager has asset knowledge and exercises unrestricted asset control to meet worldwide inventory management responsibilities. See also consumer inventory, intermediate inventory, retail inventory.


## Z


zone inspection, planning, preparation, and operation briefA face-to-face conference of the air assault force commander, the assault support element commander, and key staff members who jointly plan an air assault operation in which their units are participating. Also called **ZIPPO brief**.


zone reconnaissanceA directed effort to obtain detailed information concerning all routes, obstacles (to include chemical or radiological contamination), terrain, and enemy forces within a zone defined by boundaries. A zone reconnaissance normally is assigned when the enemy situation is vague or when information concerning cross-country trafficability is desired.



## Section Iii. N**Omenclature**


Note:  This is not an all-inclusive list of nomenclature and variants.

1MC ........ general announcing system 10MC ........ general announcing system (amphibious) 3MC ........ general announcing system (aviation)
5MC ........ general announcing system (flight deck)


## A

A-10 ........ close air support aircraft (Thunderbolt II, Warthog) A-22 ........ cargo bag assembly for external load carrying on certain aircraft AAQ ........ piloted aircraft, invisible light, heat radiation, special or combination:

AAQ-22E with forward-looking infrared system;
AAQ-24 with directional infrared countermeasure;
AAQ-27 mid-wavelength infrared imaging system;
AAQ-29 forward-looking infrared sensor AAR-47 ........ missile and laser warning set:
AAR-47;
AAR-47(V)2 AAR-57 ........ common missile warning system:
AAR-57;
AAR-57(V)

 AAS........ piloted aircraft, invisible light, heat radiation, detecting, range and bearing, search AAV ........ amphibious assault vehicle:

AAVP7 amphibious assault vehiclepersonnel variant

 ACE........ armored combat earthmover:


AGM ........ air-to-ground missile:
AGM-114 (Hellfire);
AGM-114R (Hellfire II) AGR-19 ........ laser-guided, high explosive, 2.75-inch rocket AGS-17 ........Plamya
(Note: Russian automatic grenade launcher) AH ........ attack helicopter:
AH-1 (Cobra);
AH-1W (Super Cobra);
AH-1Z (Viper)

AK ........ Avtomat Kalashnikova assault rifle:
AK-47;
AK-74 AKM ........ Avtomat Kalashnikova Modernizirovanniy *(assault rifle)* AKS........ Avtomat Kalashnikova Skladnoy *(assault rifle)*:
AKS-74;
AKS-74U ALE-47 ........ countermeasures dispensing system ALQ ........ air electronic system (air countermeasure combination or special):
ALQ-99 tactical jamming system;
ALQ-156A(V)2 missile approach warning system;
ALQ-162(V)2 radar countermeasures system;
ALQ-212(V) advanced threat infrared countermeasures;
ALQ-231 electronic support and attack pod (Intrepid Tiger) AM-2 ........aluminum airfield matting APR-39 ........ radar warning receiver:
APR-39(V);
APR-39A(V)2;
APR-39B(V)2 ARC ........ piloted aircraft radio communications (receiving and transmitting):
ARC-164;
ARC-186; ARC-210;
ARC-210D;
ARC-220

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

 AV ........ attack vertical take-off/short take-off and landing aircraft:
V/STOL attack aircraft;
AV-8 (Harrier)
AV-8B (Super Harrier)
AYK-28(V)2 ........ airborne data processing computer

## B

B-747........ jet airliner and cargo aircraft BMP ........ boyevaya mashina pekhoty
(Note: Russian tracked infantry fighting vehicle) BRDM ........boyevaya razvedyuatel'naya dozornaya meshina
(Note: Russian armored combat reconnaissance patrol vehicle)

BTR ........ Bronetransportyor
(Note: Russian armored personnel carrier)



Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

## D

DC-8 ........ narrow-body, long-range jet airliner
DC-10 ........ wide-body, medium- to long-range jet airliner Dragon........ wire-guided antitank missile:
M-47 Dragon;
Dragon II;
Super Dragon

## E

E-2 ........ all-weather, carrier-based tactical battle management
airborne early warning, command and control aircraft (Hawkeye) EA-6B ........ all-weather electronic attack aircraft (Prowler) EC-130 ........ electronic warfare capable configuration of C-130 aircraft

ESB-3 ........ expeditionary mobile base variant of expeditionary transfer dock

## F

F ........ fighter aircraft designation F-15 ........ tactical fighter aircraft F-16 ........ supersonic, multirole fighter aircraft F-111 ........ supersonic, interdictor tactical attack aircraft (Aardvark) F-35 ........ multi-role fighter aircraft (Lightning II):
F-35B short takeoff/vertical-landing, supersonic stealth aircraft;
F-35C F/A ........ fighter/attack aircraft designation:
F/A-18 (Hornet);
F/A-18E (Super Hornet);
F/A-18F (Super Hornet) FSQ-187 ........ Improved Moving Target Simulator (IMTS)

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

## G

GAU ........ gun, aircraft unit:
GAU-16 .50 caliber machine gun;
GAU-17 7.62 mm six-barrel automatic machine gun;
GAU-21 .50 caliber machine gun system


## H

Halon 1211 extinguisher ........ hand-portable, clean agent extinguisher
 suitable for Class A, B, and C hazards Halon extinguisher ........ 150 pound wheeled clean agent
extinguisher suitable for Class A, B, and C hazards Hellfire ........ air-to-surface and surface-to-surface missile;
........ helicopterborne fire and forget missile HELRASR ........ highly expeditionary long-range air surveillance radar HHIS ........ handheld image stabilizer HHLR ........ handheld laser rangefinder

HIMARS ........ High Mobility Artillery Rocket System HMG ........ heavy machine gun

HMMWV ........ high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle:
M1152A1 expanded capacity high mobility multipurpose wheeled vehicle HNVS ........ helicopter night vision system HRR ........ high resolution radar HSV........ high-speed vessel

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

## I

INC ........Internet controller

## J

Javelin ........ man-portable antiarmor weapon system

## K

KC-130 ........ multirole, multi-mission tactical tanker/transport aircraft:
KC-130 (Hercules);
KC-130J air-to-air refueler variant (Super Hercules);
KC-130J variant with Hercules Airborne Weapons Kit (Harvest HAWK)

KC-135 ........ military aerial refueling aircraft (Stratotanker) KY-58 ........airborne/shipborne radio encryption device KY-100 ........ encryption device in airborne/ground environments LUU ........ illuminating parachute flare:
LUU-2 overt illuminating parachute flare;
LUU-19 covert illuminating parachute flare LW-155 ........ lightweight 155 mm howitzer LX(R) ........ dock landing ship replacement (Whidbey Island class)

## N



## O P

P ........ patrol aircraft designation:
P-3 (Orion);
P-8 (Poseidon) PAC-2 ........ Patriot Advanced Capability2 PAC-3 ........ Patriot Advanced Capability3 PK ........ Pulemyot Kalashnikova (machine gun) PKM ........ Pulemyot Kalashnikova Modernizirovanniy
7.62-mm general purpose machine gun PM ........ Pistolet Makarova (semi-automatic pistol) PRC ........ portable radio communications device;
PRC-117F;
PRC-117G PSO ........ Pritsel Snaipersky Optichesky
PSO-1 with illuminated reticle


Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.



## Q


## R

RIM ........ radar intercept missile RMS6-L ........ Recoil Mortar System 6-Light

ROVER ........ remotely operated video enhanced receiver RPD ........Ruchnoy Pulemyot Degtyaryova *(light machine gun)* RPK ........ Ruchnoy Pulemyot Kalashnikova *(light machine gun)* RQ ........ reconnaissance drone;
tactical unmanned aircraft system:
RQ-7 (Shadow)
RQ-21 (Blackjack)
RQ-21A (Integrator) RQ-11 ........ lightweight unmanned aircraft system
RQ-11 (Raven)
RQ-11B (Raven) RQ-20 ........ small unmanned aircraft system, pointer upgraded mission ability (Puma)
RQ-20B (Puma) RT ........ radio transmitting
RT-456

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

## S

S-788 ........ lightweight multipurpose shelter *(air traffic control operations)*
SeaRAM ........ sea rolling airframe missile (CIWS radar + RAM launcher) SH-60 ........ medium utility helicopter (Seahawk):
SH-60B;
SH-60F SLQ ........ electronic warfare system (surface, countermeasure, combination or special [SLQ-32]) SLQ-37 ........ magnetic/acoustic minesweeping system aboard the MCM 1 Class

SLQ-38 ........ mechanical minesweeping system aboard the MCM 1 Class SLQ-48 ........ mine neutralization system utilizing a remotely
operated vehicle carrying cable cutters and a bomblet SMAW ........shoulder-launched multipurpose assault weapon SPQ ........ surface search with fire control accuracy (surface, radar, combination or special) SPS ........ radar on surface ships (surface, radar detecting, range and bearing, search) SQR ........ passive sonar (surface, sonar, receiving) SQS ........ active and passive sonar (surface, sonar, detecting, range and bearing, search):
SQS-53;
SQS-56 SRU-40 ........ helicopter aircrew breathing device (HABD) Stinger ........ man-portable air defense system surface-to-air missile SVD........ Snayperskaya Vintovka Dragunova *(sniper rifle)*

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

## T

T-AG ........ acoustic survey ship *(MSC)*

T-AGS ........ navigation test support ship T-AH ........hospital ship *(MSC)* T-AK ........ container and roll-on/roll-off ship *(MSC)* T-AKE........dry cargo and ammunition ship T-AKR ........ large, medium-speed, roll-on/roll-off ship *(MSC)*

T-AO ........ fleet replenishment oiler *(MSC)* T-AOE........ fast combat support ship T-AVB ........ aviation logistics support ship T-EPF ........ expeditionary fast transport *(MSC)* TMQ-56 ........ lightweight, highly-mobile meteorological data collection system
(Meteorological Mobile Facilities [Replacement] Next Generation) TPN-31 ........ air traffic navigation, integration, and coordination system:
TPN-31(V)5;
TPN-31(V)7 TPQ-50 ........ Weapon Locating Radar System TPS ........ radar system:
TPS-59 long-range air surveillance;
TPS-59A(V)3 long-range surveillance radar;
TPS-63 transportable air surveillance;
TPS-63B medium-range surveillance radar;
TPS-80 ground/air task-oriented radar (G/ATOR) medium-range surveillance radar TOW ........ tube-launched, optically tracked, wire-command link guided missile TRAM ........ tractor rubber-tire articulating, mobile TRN-44A ........ transportable tactical air navigation set TRN-47 ........ lightweight, portable tactical air navigation set TRS ........ radar on LCS ships (transportable, radio detecting, range and bearing, search)

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.

 TSQ-120C ........ transportable air traffic control central tower TSQ-216 ........ remote landing site tower (variant) TSQ-263 ........ tactical terminal control system TSQ-297(V)1 ........ common aviation command and control system

## U

UA ........ unmanned aircraft
(replaces unmanned aerial vehicle [UA]), except
for Marine unmanned aerial vehicle squadron [VMU]) UAS........ unmanned aircraft system UH ........ utility helicopter:
UH-1 (Huey);
UH-1Y (Venom, Super Huey) UH-60 ........ utility helicopter, medium-lift (Black Hawk) *(Army)*
UH-60A (Black Hawk);
UH-60L (Black Hawk); UH-60M (Black Hawk) UMK-4(V) ........ portable, lightweight, automated METOC display and forecasting system
(Naval Integrated Tactical Environmental SystemMobile Variant IV)


## V

VMR-2 ........ dual sensor mine detector;
VMR-2 (Minehound);
VMR-2.5 (Minehound)

VTOL ........ vertical takeoff and landing;
VTOL-UAS;
VTOL-UAV


## W



## X



## Y



## Z

Note: Italic text is not part of the definition, it is explanatory in nature.