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405 Cards in this Set

  • Front
  • Back
Abort
Cease action/attack/event/mission. 
Action
Initiate a briefed attack sequence or maneuver. [See: PUMP, SPIN]
Alarm P
Terminate / terminating EMCON procedures. Opposite of SNOOZE.
Alpha Check
Request for/confirmation of bearing and range from described point to requesting aircraft.
Anchor
1. Directive call to orbit about a specific point.
2. Refueling track flown by tanker.
Angels
Height of friendly aircraft in thousands of feet MSL.
Arm
CONTACTS resulting from target manuevers exceeding group criteria inside meld.
AWOL
Informative call indicating violation of assigned procedural deconfliction measure.
Azimuth
A picture label describing 2 groups separated laterally. Group names will be referenced by cardinal directions. (NORTH GROUP
Bandit
Aircraft positively identified as an enemy IAW theater identification criteria. The term doesn't necessarily imply direction or authority to engage.
Beam
Target stabilized within 70-110 degrees of aspect. [Usually given in cardinal directions- BEAM East]
Bittersweet
Notification of possible blue-on-blue (fratricide) or blue-on-neutral situation
Blind
No visual contact with friendly aircraft/ground position; opposite of visual.
Blow Through
Directive or informative call that indicates aircraft will continue strait ahead at the merge and not become ANCHORED with target/targets.
Bogey
A radar or visual air CONTACT whose identity is unknown.
Bogey Dope
Request for target information as requested or [if no GROUP specified] for closest group in BRAA (with appropriate fill-ins).
Box
A picture label describing 4 distinct groups with 2 in front and 2 behind in a square or offset square orientation.
BRAA
1. Following information is in a tactical control format providing target Bearing, Range, Altitude, and Aspect, relative to the specified friendly aircraft.
2. Switch to tactical BRAA control format to a specific GROUP/CONTACT
Bracket
Directive call to maneuver to a position on opposing sides
Break
Directive call to perform an immediate max performance 180 degree turn (or as directed) in the indicated direction. Default is a 180 degree turn. Assumes a defensive situation requiring infrared missile defense (IRMD).
Broke Lock
Advisory call regarding loss of radar/IR lock-on.
Buddy Lock
Locked to a known friendly aircraft. Normally a response to a SPIKE or a BUDDY SPIKE.
Buddy Spike
Friendly aircraft air to air radar track indication on radar warning receiver (RWR).
Bugout
Separation from that particular engagement/attack/operation; no intent to reengage or return.
Bullseye
An established reference point from which the position of an object can be referenced by bearing (magnetic) and range (NM) from this point. It will not be truncated to "bull".
Bullseye Check
Request for confirmation of ownship postion relative to BULLSEYE.
Buster
Directive call to fly at max continuous speed (Mil power).
Cap(ping)
Establish a CAP at a specific location.
Cease Engagement
A fire control order used to direct units to stop tactical action against a specified target. Guided missiles already in flight will continue to intercept.
Cease Fire
Discontinue firing
Champagne
A picture label describing 3 distinct groups with 2 in front and 1 behind.
Cheap shot
AIM-120 missile data link terminated between high pulse repetition frequency (HPRF) and medium pulse repetition frequency (MPRF).
Check
Turn (number) degrees left or right and maintain new heading.
Chicks
FRIENDLY aircraft.
Clean
No sensor information on nonfriendly aircraft of interest.
Cleared
Requested action is authorized.
In non-ATC airspace
in informative term used by tactical C2 indicating approval to flow as indicated.
Cleared To Engage
JTAC type III control clearance. Attack aircraft flight leaders may intiate attacks within the parameters imposed by the JTAC.
Closing
Decreasing in separation.
Cold
A descriptive/directive call to intiate a turn in the CAP away from the anitcipated threats.
Comeback
Comeback.
Comeoff
Directive call to maneuver as indicated to either regain mutual support or to deconflict flight paths. Implys both visual and tally.
Commit
Directive call to intercept a GROUP of interest.
Cons/Conning
Threat or bogey aircraft is leaving contrails.
Contact
1. Sensor contact at the stated position. [“Dog 11, CONTACT, B/E 270/25, 20K, Declare”]
2. Acknowledges sighting of a specified reference point, visually or via sensor. 
3. Individual radar return within a GROUP or ARM.
Container
Inner group formation with four contacts oriented in a square or offset square.
Continue
Continue present maneuver. Doesn't imply a change in clearance to engage
Cover
Directive/informative call to assume a supporting position that will allow engagement of a specified track or threat to the flight if required.
Crank
F-pole maneuver
Crossing
Two groups intially separated in azimuth decreasing azimuth separation to pass each other.
Cutoff
Request for
Cyclops
Any unmanned aircraft.
Dash (number)
Aircraft position within a specfic flight. Use if the callsign is unknown.
Declare
Inquiry into the identification of specified tracks
Deep
Descriptive term used to indicate separation between the nearest and farthest GROUPS in range in a relative formation in three or more groups; used to describe a LADDER
Defending (with direction)
Aircraft is in a defensive position and maneuvering with a reference to a surface to air threat.
Defensive
Speaker is under attack
Delouse
Directive call to detect
Deploy
Directive call for the flight to maneuver to briefed position.
Dirty
Link is not encrypted.
Dog
Air Towed Decoy.
Drag (w/ cardinal & subcardinal directions)
Target stabilized at a 0-60 degree angle from the tail or a 120-180 degree angle from nose.
Drop(ping)
Directive/Informative call to stop monitoring a specific emitter/target and resume search responsibility.
Echelon (w/ sub-cardinal direction)
An amplification to a picture label describing groups aligned behind and to the side of the closest group.
Echo
Positive System M/Mode X reply or comparable system reply.
Engaged
Informative call used to establish engaged and support roles in the visual arena.
Established
Call made when reaching assigned geographic location.
Exit (w/ subcardinal direction)
Individual aircraft is executing a max performance defensive maneuver to turn cold to the threat.
Extend (w/ direction)
Short term maneuver to gain energy
Eyeball Narrow
Electro optical EO/IR contacts are viewed in narrow field of view and are too close for resolution via radar.
Faded
Radar contact is lost or unknown/non-friendly group.
Fast
Target speed is 600-900 knots ground speed/Mach 1 to 1.5..
Flank
Contact aspect stabilized at a 120-150 degree angle from the tail or a 30-60 degree angle from the nose.
Flash (system)
Temporarily activate a specified system for identification purposes. (IFF
Flashlight
Directive turn for helocopter to turn on IR flood light (pointed at ground to aid in visual acquisition by escort aircraft.)
Float
Directive or informative call to expand the formation laterally within visual limits to maintain radar contact or prepare for a defensive response.
Flow
Directive call to fly a stated heading.
Fox
A/A weapons employment.
Friendly
A positively identified friendly aircraft
Furball
Non-friendly and friendly aircraft are in close proximity to each other. Can be a response to a DECLARE request.
Gadget
Radar emitter or equipment.
Gate
Directive/Informative call to fly as quickly as possible
Gimbal (w/BRAA)
Sensor target is approaching azimuth or elevation tracking limits.
Gopher
A CONTACT that has NOT conformed to safe passage routing, airspeed, or altitude procedures. Will only be used when safe passage or minimum risk routing (MRR) procedures are part of an ID matrix. [See: RIDER]
Gorilla
Large force of indeterminate numbers and formation of unfriendly aircraft.
Grand Slam
All HOSTILE aircraft of a designated track (or against which a mission was tasked) are shot down.
Grease (heading/altitude)
A defensive maneuver designed to maximize merge survivability. Use cardinal direction for heading.
Green (w/ direction)
Direction of no known enemy threats.
Group
Any number of air contacts within 3 NM in azimuth & range of each other.
Guide (w/ cardinal direction & location)
Directive term to intercept and move TOI as directed using ICAO procedures.
Guns
Aircraft gun being employed.
Hard (w/ direction)
High G-energy sustaining 180-degree turn (or as directed) in the indicated direction.
Headbutt
Directive term to fighters/interceptors to immediatley divert a track of interest clear of a restricted or prohibited area. Also referred to as INTERVENE in Link-16 format.
Heads Up
Alert of an activity of interest.
Heavy
A group known to contain three or more individual entities/contacts.
High
Contact is greater than 40
Hits
1. Momentary radar return(s).  [definition 1 is used by AICs for radar video not solid enough to be a GROUP/ARM/CONTACT]
2. (A/A) Indicates approximate target altitude (e.g., Dog 11 GROUP BULLSEYE 360/10, HITS 15 thousand). [only Fighters use this definition, not AIC. Say ESTIMATE if unsure of altitude]
3. (A/G) Weapons impact within lethal distance. 
Hold Fire
An emergency fire control order to stop firing on a designated target to include destruction of any missiles in flight.
Holding Hands
Aircraft in visual formation.
Hook
Directive call to perform an in place 180 degree turn.
Data link directive call to cue sensors to described point (POI, SAM, Markpoint, TN, etc.)
Hostile
A contact identified as enemy upon which clearance to fire is authorized in accordance with theater rules of engagement.
Hot
1. A descriptive/directive call to initiate a turn in the CAP toward the anticipated threats.
2. *Defined area is expected to receive fire (enemy or friendly).
3. (A/S) Ordnance employment intended or completed.
4. Contact aspect stabilized at 160-180 degrees angle from tail or 0 - 20 degrees angle from nose.
5. Intercept geometry will result in passing in front of the target.
Husky
Informative call that the AIM-120 is at HPRF active range.
ID
1. Identify the target/track.
2. Identification is accomplished, followed by type.
In
Informative call indicating a turn towards a known threat. Opposite of OUT/EXIT.
In Place (w/ direction)
Perform indicated maneuver simultaneously.
India
Mode 4.
Inspect
Establish visual contact with cockpit of TOI (implies closure within 500ft). Attempt communcations and report all observations of activity. Multiple passes may be required depending on TOI airspeed.
Interrogate
Interrogate the designated contact of the identification friend or foe (IFF)/selective identification feature (SIF) mode indicated.
Intervene
Immediately divert a TOI clear of a restricted or prohibited area.
Investigate
Verify specified elements fo ROE
Jink
Directive call to perform an unpredictable maneuver to negate a gun tracking solution.
Judy
Aircrew has taken control of the intercept
Kill
In training
Knock-it-off
Directive call to cease air combat maneuvers/attacks/activities.
Ladder
A picture label describing 3 or more groups on the same azimuth but seperated in range.
Last
Command and Control (C2) term that provides the last contact altitude from a high fidelity source (flight radar).
Lead-Trail
Inner group formation of 2 CONTACTS seperated by range.
Leakers
Airborne threat has passed through a defensive layer. Call should include amplifying information.
Lean
Offset package/element in specified direction maintaining briefed altitude
Level
Intra-flight informative call that contact is co-altitude.
Line Abreast
Inner group formation of 2 or more contacts separated in azimuth.
Locked
1. (w/Group Label) Radar lock-on; SORT is not assumed.
2. (w/Position) Radar lock-on; correct targeting is not assumed.
Lost Contact
Previous contact lost
Low
Contact less than 5000 ft AGL.
Maddog
Visual AIM-120 launch.
Maneuver (AZIMUTH /RANGE/ ALTITUDE)
Specified GROUP is maneuvering in azimuth, range, and/or altitude.
Marking
Friendly aircraft leaving contrails.
Marshal(ing)
Establish(ed) at a specific point.
Meld
1. Bias radar coverage IAW briefed parameters.
2. Shift radar responsibilities from sanitizing to gaining SA on assigned GROUP.
Merge(d)
Informative call that friendlies and targets have arrived in the same visual arena.
Midnight
Informative call that C2 radar functions are unavailable due to degradation. Advisory information may still be available. Opposite of SUNRISE.
Monitor(ing)
Maintain(ing) sensor awareness on specified GROUP/object. Implies that tactically significant changes will be communicated.
Music
Radar electronic deceptive jamming.
Nails
RWR indication of AI radar search.
Naked
No RWR indications.
Negative Contact
No sensor information is available on friendlies.
Neutral
A positively identified aircraft
New Picture
Used by controller or aircrew when tactical picture has changed. Supersedes all previous calls and reestablishes picture for all players.
No Factor
Not a threat.
No Joy
Aircrew does not have visual contact with the target/bandit. Opposite of TALLY.
Notch(ing)
Directive (informative) for an all-aspect missile defense maneuever to place threat radar/missile near the beam.
Off
Informative call indicating attack is terminated and maneuvering to the indicated direction.
Off Station
Informative call that unit/aircraft is not in position or no longer performing assigned tasks. Opposite of ON STATION.
On Station
Informative call that the assigned unit/aircraft has reached assigned station.
Opening
Increasing in separation.
Out
Directive call indicating a turn to a cold aspect relative to the known threat. Used in launch and leave tactics and for all flight members to execute.
Outlaw
Informative call that a CONTACT has met point of origin criteria for ROE.
Package
Geographically isolated collection of GROUPS outside of bounding range.
Padlocked
Informative call indicating the aircrew cannot take eyes off an auircraft
Paints
An interrogated group/radar contact that is responding with any of the specified IFF/SIF modes and correct codes established for the identification criteria.
Parrot
IFF/SIF transponder.
Passing
Descriptive term for when 2 GROUPS intially seperated in range decrease range and pass each other.
Picture
A request to provide air information pertinent to the mission in a digital bullseye format unless briefed otherwise.
Pitbull
Informative call that the AIM-120 is at MPRF active range.
Pitch/Pitchback
Directive call for fighter/helo or flight to execute a nose-high heading reversal.
Playmate
Cooperating Aircraft.
Pop
1. Starting climb for A/S attack.
2. Max performance climb out of low-altitude structure.
Popeye
Flying in clouds or area of reduced visibility.
Pop-up
1. (A/A) GROUP that has suddenly appeared inside of briefed [usually Meld/No New Picture] range.
2. (S/A)** Criteria used as a self-defense method, within the ROE, to protect friendly air defense elements from HOSTILE aircraft.
Posit
Request for friendly position; response in terms of a geographic landmark or off a common reference point.
Posthole
Rapid descending spiral.
Press
Requested action is approved and mutual support will be maintained. Supportive role will be assumed by the speaker.
Print
Unambiguous non-cooperative target recognition (NCTR) reply.
Pump
A briefed maneuver to minimize closure to threat or geographical boundary with the intent to reengage. Will be used to intiate a grinder tactic.
Pure
Informative call to indicate that pure pursuit is being used or directive to go pure pursuit.
Pushing
1. Departing designated point.
2. (GROUP / descriptions) [A/A] GROUP(S) have turned cold and will continue to be monitored.
Range
A picture label describing 2 GROUPS separated in distance along the same line of bearing. Group names will be LEAD GROUP/TRAIL GROUP.
Reported
Information provided is derived from an off-board source.
Renegade
A civil platform that is assessed as operating in such a manner as to raise suspicion that it might be used as a weapon to perpetuate a terrorist attack.
Reset
Proceed to a prebriefed position or area of operation (AO).
Resume
Resume last formation/route/mission ordered.
Retrograde(ing)
Withdraw/withdrawing
Rider
A BOGEY that is conforming to ACO safe passage procedures.
Rolex
Time line adjustment in minutes always referenced from original preplanned mission execution time. Plus means later; minus means earlier.
Rumba
Radar has detected jamming/mutual interference but has not resolved the type.
Saddled
Informative call from wingman or element indicating the return to briefed formation position.
Sandwiched
A situation where an aircraft or an element finds themselves between opposing aircraft or elements.
Saunter
Fly at best endurance.
Schlem
Simulated high off boresight IR missile launch. Not assessable for simulated kill/kill removal.
Scram
Friendly asset is in immediate danger. Withdraw in the direction indicated for survival. No further HVAA mission support is expected.
Scramble
Take off as quickly as possible.
Scrub
MTI return that signifies a low, slow airborne target.
Separation
Request for separation between 2 GROUPS. Response will include the follow-on GROUP's separation
Search
Perform sensor search of indicated position.
Separate
Leaving a specific engagement; may or may not reenter.
Shackle
One weave
Shadow
Follow indicated target.
Short Stake
Directive to execute launch-and-leave mechanics no later than minimum abort range
Shotgun
Pre-briefed weapons state.
Silent
1. (time) [A/A] System will be unavailable for time indicated.
2. Datalink is, or should be placed, in receive only.
3. [N][EW] Broadcast station is not transmitting. May also be used as an order and
must be followed by a frequency or station designator. If possible it should be followed by an estimated time of return to the air.
Single
Descriptive call indicating 1 GROUP or CONTACT.
Skate
Informative or directive call to execute launch and leave tactics and be out no later than desired out range (DOR).
Skip It
Veto of fighter commit call
Skosh
Aircraft is out of or unable to deploy active radar missiles.
Slice/Sliceback
Directive call to perform a high G descending turn in the stated direction
Slide
Continue present mission while flowing from station in response to percieved threat; implies intent to RESET.
Slow
Target with ground speed of 100-250 knots.
Snap
1. [GROUP Name] Fighter request for immediate BRAA call (with appropriate fill-ins) to the group described. Indicates fighter intent to intercept/join.
2. (heading) Urgent directive call to turn to a heading.
Snaplock
Indicates fighter has obtained a radar contact inside briefed range, aspect or radar mode and is unable to complete sanitization responsibilities implying ownership.
Sniff
Passive sensor indication of a stated radar emitter.
Snooze
Directive or informative call indicating initiation of emission control (EMCON) procedures. Opposite of ALARM.
Sort(ed)
Directive call to assign responsibility within a GROUP; criteria can be met visually
Sour
Opposite of SWEET.
Spades
An interrogated group/radar contact which lacks all of the ATO (or equivalent) IFF/SIFF modes and codes required for the identification criteria.
Spike
RWR indication of an AI threat in track or launch.
Spin
Directive or informative call to execute a timing/spacing maneuver.
Spitter
An aircraft that has departed from the engagement or is departing the engaged fighter's targeting responsibility.
Splash
Target destroyed.
Split
An informative or directive call that a flight member is leaving formation to pursue a seperate attack; visual may not be maintained.
Spoofer
An entity employing electronic or tactical deception measures.
Squawk(ing)
Operate IFF/SIFF as indicated or IFF/SIFF is operating as indicated.
Stack
Two or more contacts within GROUP criteria with an altitude separation of 10
Standby
1. More information is coming
2. (GROUP) Eyeball fighter is preparing to call VID of target aircraft. No radio transmissions should be made [by anyone] until either ID is made or the eyeball fighter calls “unable VID”
Status
1. Request for an individual's tactical situation.
2. (GROUP) Request for a full positional update on the specified group (default is digital bullseye).
Stern
Request for a directive to intercept using stern geometry.
Stinger
Three ship inner GROUP with 2 lead contacts line abreast and the single in trail.
Stranger
Unidentified traffic that is not a participant with the action in progress.
Strangle
Turn off equipment indicated.
Strength
Numerical strength of a TRACK/GROUP.
Stripped
Informative call that aircraft is out of pre-briefed formation.
Strobe
Radar indications of noise jamming.
Sunrise
Informative call that C2 radar functions are available. Opposite of MIDNIGHT.
Supporting
Speaking unit or element is assuming a supporting role
Sweet
Valid response to an adminstrative IFF/SIF check request.
Swept
Inner GROUP formation with the trailer displaced approximately 45 degrees behind the leader.
Switched
Indicates an attacker is changing from one aircraft to another.
Tally
Sighting of a target, non-friendly aircraft, or enemy position. Opposite of NO JOY. [See: VISUAL, BLIND]
Target
1. Assignment of targeting responsibilities.
2. [A/S] [S/S] ROE, PID, coordination of forces, and Commanders Guidance
requirements on the referenced target / track have been satisfied. Target / track correlation and CDE must be accomplished prior to employing ordnance / fires.
Targeted
Fighter has acquired assigned group and has assumed responsibility for it.
Terminate
1. Stop laser illumination of a target.
2. In training, cease local engagement without affecting the overall exercise. [See: Knock It Off]
Threat
Untargeted HOSTILE/BANDIT/ BOGEY is within a briefed range of a friendly aircraft.
Throttles
Reminder to set throttles appropriately considering the IR threat and desired energy state.
Tied
Positive radar contact with element or aircraft.
Tiger
Enough fuel and ordnance to accept a commit.
TOI
Track of Interest. The label of a group/contact that is perceived as a threat to North America or national security.
Track
A group/contact's direction of flight/movement; voiced in eight cardinal/sub-cardinal directions.
Trashed
Informative call that a missile has been defeated.
Tumbleweed
Indicates limited SA
Very Fast
Target speed greater than 900 knots ground speed/Mach 1.5.
Very Slow
Target speed less than 100 knots ground speed.
VIC
Picture label with three GROUPS with the single closest in range and two GROUPS,
azimuth split, in trail. *Group names should be LEAD GROUP and NORTH TRAIL GROUP and SOUTH TRAIL GROUP or EAST TRAIL GROUP and WEST TRAIL GROUP.
Visual
Sighting of a friendly aircraft or ground position. Opposite of BLIND.
Wall
A picture call describing 3 or more groups separated primarily in azimuth.
Wedge
Three-ship-inner group formation with a single contact closest in range and two trail contacts line abreast.
Weighted
Descriptive term used as a picture fill-in for a three or more GROUP formation (WALL
What Luck
Request for results of missions or tasks.
What State
Request for amount of missiles and fuel remaining.
Response: (1st No.) = number of active radar missiles remaining;
(2nd No.) = number of semi-active radar missiles remaining;
(3rd No.) = number of IR missiles remaining;
(MINUS) No gun/insufficient ammo for gun attack
By
(4th No) = pounds of fuel (given to one decimal point), or time remaining [in hours & minutes of on-station time]. Example response to WHAT STATE: “BLUE TWO IS 3-1-2 BY 7 POINT 5" [or BY ZERO PLUS THIRTY] is equivalent to 3 AIM-120s, 1 AIM-7, 2 AIM-9s and 7,500 lbs of fuel [or 0.5 hours time on station] remaining.
Ammunition and oxygen are reported only when specifically requested or critical.
Wide
Descriptive term used to indicate the separation between the GROUPS in azimuth in a WALL
Winchester
No ordnance remaining.
Working
Platform gathering EOB on a designated emitter.
Yardstick
Directive to use A/A TACAN for ranging.
ADD * (system/category)
(EW) Add a specific (system) or (EOB category) to search responsibilities.
ALLIGATOR
Link-11/ TADIL A.
ARIZONA
No ARM [Anti-Radar Missile] ordnance remaining.
ANCHOR (location)
1. Directive call to orbit about a specific point.
2. Refueling track flown by tanker.
ANYFACE
Friendly GCI/AEW command and control agency when callsign is not known.
AS FRAGGED
Unit or element will be performing exactly as briefed. [Key items to note: differences between tasked numbers/ordnance load & any system failures. “Dog 11, checking in, Depot 360/30, AS FRAGGED]
ASLEEP
(EW) No longer detecting land/surface emitter activity via COMINT. Opposite of AWAKE
ATTACK
Directive command to commence air-to-surface delivery on a specific ground target. Direction / bearing from which the weapon will be coming may be given. Not to be used in a CAS engagement.
ATTACK COMPLETE
(A/S) Mandatory call from the attack aircraft to the Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC)/FAC during Type III CAS terminal control indicating completion of ordnance release. (See also CLEARED TO ENGAGE)
ATTACKING
Aircraft are committed to air-to-surface delivery on a specific ground target.
Direction/bearing from which the weapon will be coming may be given.
AUTHENTICATE
A coded challenge or a response to a coded
challenge.
AUTOCAT
Any communications relay using automatic retransmissions.
AWAKE
Land/Surface emitter activity detecting via COMINT. Opposite of ASLEEP
(weapon) AWAY
Release/launch of specified weapon. (e.g. BIRDS AWAY, PIGS AWAY, LONG RIFLE AWAY, etc.) NOTE: Include launch location in bullseye format and weapons track direction for PIGS and LONG RIFLE.
BANZAI
Execute / executing launch and decide tactics with intent to maneuver into the visual arena. [See: SKATE]
BASE (+/- Number)
Reference number used to indicate such information as headings, altitude, fuels, etc.
BEAD WINDOW
Last transmission potentially disclosed unauthorized information.
(system) BENT
System indicated is inoperative. Cancelled by
SWEET.
BINGO
Fuel state needed for recovery.
BIRD (number)
Friendly surface-to-air missile (SAM). [Enemy SAM is “SAM”]
ONE: Semiactive radar SAM
TWO: Exoatmospheric SAM
THREE: Active radar SAM
BIRD(S) AFFIRM
Friendly unit is able and prepared to engage a specified target with SAMs. Friendly unit has fire control solution on a specified target with SAMs. Opposite of BIRD(S) NEGATE.
BIRD(S) 1/2/3 AWAY (Group Name)
FRIENDLY SAM has been fired at designated target
BIRD(S) NEGATE
Surface-to-Air informative call indicating a friendly unit is unable to engage a specified target with SAMs. Opposite of BIRD(S) AFFIRM.
BREAK AWAY
Tanker or receiver call indicating immediate vertical and nose/tail separation between tanker and receiver is required.
BRUISER
Friendly air launched anti-ship missile. [See: BULLDOG]
BULLDOG
Friendly surface/submarine launched anti-ship missile. [See: BRUISER]
BUTTON
Radio channel setting.
BUZZER
Electronic communications jamming. (NOTE: same as NATO term, CHATTER)
BUZZSAW
A chemstick tied to a string swung overhead to mark a friendly position
CANDYGRAM
Electronic warfare (EW) targeting information is available on a briefed secure net.
CAP (location)
Establish a combat air patrol at a specified location.
CAPTURED (target / object)
Specified surface target / object has been acquired and is being tracked with an onboard sensor.
CEASE (activity)
Discontinue stated activity; e.g. CEASE BUZZER, CEASE LASER, etc.
CHARLIE
1.* (AIR-MAR) The expected landing time on the ship.
2. (AIR-MAR) Directive to land aircraft on ship.
3.* (time in minutes) (AIR-MAR) An advisory call modifying/delaying the briefed recovery time (e.g., CHARLIE TEN).
CHATTERMARK
Begin using briefed radio procedures to counter communications jamming.
CHECKPRINT (TRACK #)
1. Air Defense Commander request for unit(s) to provide amplifying information on a specified track.
2. Reply/informative to Air Defense Commander followed by positive track information using format specified in applicable OPTASK document.
CHERUBS
Height of a friendly aircraft in hundreds of feet AGL. (NOTE: NATO definition, when adopted, will not specify AGL or MSL) [See: ANGELS]
CLEARED HOT
1. [A/S] Type 1 and 2 close air support terminal control clearance to release ordnance
on this pass.
2. Training range operations: RCO / RSO authorizes ordnance release
COLOR** (System/Position) 
Request for information on a type (system) at stated location; implies a request for ambiguity resolution. May be used with datalink data message- COLOR, DATA.
CONFETTI
Chaff lane or corridor.
CONTINUE DRY
Continue present maneuver, ordnance release not authorized. Note: Simulated weapons deliveries may be performed.
DANGER CLOSE
(A/S, S/S) Friendly troops are within0.1% PI distances from the target (determined by the weapon/munition delivered/fired). NOTE: Specific DANGER CLOSE distances, assumptions, and procedures are contained in J-Fire MTTP pub.
DATA (object, position)
Standby for data link message concerning object at stated location. 
DEADEYE
Laser designator system inoperative.
DETAILS
Request for modified J-FIRE nine-line brief from Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS).
DIRT
RWR indication of surface threat in search mode. See MUD. [See also SINGER, SAM]
DOLLY
Link-4A/TADIL C.
DONORIZE(D)
Aircraft data has been input into the host aircraft as a flight, team or donor to enable target/data sharing among tactical data link participants
(system) DOWN (location/ direction)
(EW) Referenced emitter has stopped radiating at the stated location or along the stated bearing. NOTE: DOWN does not mean system destroyed. [Opposite of ACTIVE, see EMPTY]
EMPTY
No emitters of interest detected.
ESTIMATE
Provides estimate of the size, range, height, or other parameter of a specified contact; implies degradation.
EYEBALL
1. Fighter with primary visual identification responsibility. [See: SHOOTER]
2. EO/IR/NVD acquisition of an aircraft. Normally followed by number of aircraft observed (if more than one).
EYEBALL NARROW
EO/IR contacts are viewed in narrow field of view & are too close for resolution via radar.
FATHER
Surface TACAN station.
FEET WET/DRY
Flying over water/land.
FENCE (IN/OUT)
Set cockpit switches as appropriate before entering/exiting the combat area. [Abbreviation of: Fire Control, ECM, NAV, COMM, Expendables]
FLAVOR
Visually identified nationality of a contact.
FOX MIKE
VHF/FM radio.
GO ACTIVE
Go to briefed frequency agile net.
GO BROADCAST
Switch to broadcast control format. [“Hawk, Go BROADCAST” Format: “Hawk, (X) Grps, Grp B/E X, Altitude, Track North, ID;etc" Do not Label/Name Groups. See: GO TACTICAL, BRAA, BOGEY DOPE]
GO SECURE
Use encrypted voice communications. [USN will say “Go Green”, most USAF pilots understand “Go Green” but be prepared to say “Go Secure” if you run into one who doesn’t ]
GO TACTICAL
Switch to tactical control. [AIC directed to use Picture Labels, Group Names & Tactical aspect (Hot/Flank vice Track) vice Group B/E, Group B/E, Group B/E. Does NOT imply using BRAA. See GO BROADCAST]
GREYHOUND
Friendly ground attack cruise missile (e.g., TLAM). [See: QUAIL]
HANDSHAKE
1. Link 16 Air Control NPG initiation between air control unit and controlled aircraft.
2. ** Video datalink established, Opposite of HOLLOW.
HOLD DOWN
Key transmitter for DF steer.
HOME PLATE
Home airfield or ship.
HOTDOG (color)
Informative/directive call that a friendly aircraft is approaching or is at a specified standoff distance from the sovereign airspace of a nation (as defined by national boundaries or territorial sea and airspace). (COLOR may indicate additional standoff distance.) Follow briefed procedures.
HOTEL FOX
HF radio.
IN THE DARK
Contact is in known radar blind zone.
INTRUDER
An individual, unit or weapon system in or near an operational or exercise area, which represents the threat of intelligence gathering or disruptive activity.
JAMMER
Non-friendly jammer
JELLO
Inverse Synthetic Aperture Radar (ISAR)
LAME DUCK
An aircraft in a minor state of emergency.
LEADING EDGE
The groups closest to the fighters meeting labeling criteria in a multiple group
formation. Used when all groups cannot be included using a traditional label or label with an additional group.
LEAN (direction)
Offset package / element in specified direction maintaining briefed altitude, airspeed, and formation. (NOTE: equivalent NATO term is KICK)
LEANING ON
A GROUP shows bias to one element over another
LONG RIFLE
Friendly, long range A/S missile launch (e.g. AGM-130, SLAM- ER). See
(weapon) AWAY.
LOOKING
Aircrew does not have the ground object, reference point, or target in sight (opposite
of CONTACT)
LOWDOWN
A request to provide tactical ground/surface information pertinent to the mission.
MICKEY
HAVE QUICK time-of-day (TOD) signal.
MILLER TIME
1. (A-G) Informative call indicating completion of air-to-ground ordnance delivery. Generally used by the last striker in conjunction with a pre-coordinated egress plan.
MOTHER
Parent ship.
MOVER(S)
Unidentified surface vehicles(s) in motion.
MUD (type/ w/bearing & range if able)
1. RWR ground threat displayed with no launch indication
2. ** [A/S][E/W] RWR indication of surface threat in track mode. See DIRT and SINGER. [See also: SAM, SPIKE, NAILS]
OFFSET (direction)
Maneuver in a specified direction with reference to the target.
ORBIT(ING)
Hold / holding on current or indicated position
PACMAN
[NATO] Fighters have found the end of the threat formation and are converting; given in range and bearing from the BULLSEYE (e.g. “BLUE 44 is PACMAN Bullseye 290/5”).
PEEPSHOW
Perform non-traditional ISR on the referenced target/track.
PEPPER
Directive call for an aircraft to strafe 1000 ft ahead of the bow of a vessel.
PIG(S)
Friendly glide weapon (i.e., JSOW). See (weapon) AWAY.
PIGEONS
Magnetic bearing and range to HOMEPLATE. 
PINCE
Threat maneuvering for a bracket attack. [See: BRACKET]
PLAYTIME
Amount of time aircraft can remain on station, given in hours plus minutes (e.g. ONE PLUS THIRTY equals one hour and thirty minutes)..
(freq) POGO (freq)
Switch to communication channel number preceding POGO. If unable to establish communications, switch to channel number following POGO. If no channel number follows POGO, return to this channel. [Only use POGO this way: (On Freq A) “C/S, Switch Freq B POGO Freq C.” Do NOT say “C/S, Switch Freq B POGO” Switching back to Freq A if No Joy is SOP, no need to brief it.]
POINT
Datalink sensor point/track of interest.

** DROP POINT: Data link target sorting message is no longer needed/desired.
** HOLD POINT: Maintain weapons quality track data.
** TARGET POINT: Target the referenced datalink target sorting message (Example: IRON FOUR, TARGET IRON ONES POINT).
POLAR BEAR (direction)
[NATO] Friendly aircraft has VISUAL/contact on the FRIENDLY PACKAGE and is joining.
PUSH
Go to designated frequency; no acknowledgment required. [USN will use "Kick"]
PUSHING
1. Departing designated point.
2. (GROUP / descriptions) [A/A] GROUP(S) have turned cold and will continue to be monitored.
QUAIL
Enemy air-/surface-launched cruise missile. [See: GREYHOUND]
RACKET
(EW) Intercepted electronic emission that has been assigned to a number of the
trackblock.
RAYGUN (Position [off Bullseye] /Heading/ Altitude) 
1. Indicating a radar lock-on to unknown aircraft.
2. A request for a "BUDDY SPIKE" reply from friendly aircraft meeting these parameters.
RECYCLE
Directive call for aircrew to turn IFF/SIF equipment off & on.
REFERENCE (direction)  
Assume stated heading.
RE-STAKE
Drive a new STAKE at the target centroid reported with direction of travel and elevation. Initiated by aircrew.
RIFLE
Friendly air-to-surface missile launch. [e.g., Maverick, Hellfire, etc. See: LONG RIFLE, BRUISER, BULLDOG, GREYHOUND]
ROBBER
A surface vessel that is identified as an enemy in accordance with theater ID ctireria. The term does not necessarily imply clearance to engage. [See: SKUNK, HOSTILE]
ROGER
Indicates the receipt of radio transmission; does not indicate compliance or reaction. [See: WILCO]
ROPE
Circling an IR pointer around an aircraft to help the aircraft identify the friendly ground position.
ROTATOR
MTI returns that signifies a high probability of a rotating antenna.
SAM (direction)
Visual acquisition of a SAM in flight or a SAM launch, should include position. [See: SINGER, MUD, BIRD]
SAME
Aircrew has the identical information as was just stated.
SET ___
1. A command to set (or have set) a particular speed. May be in knots/indicated or in Mach.
2. ** No longer slewing sensor and awaiting further updates.
3. Overwatch aircraft is in position
SEPARATION
Request for separation between two groups. Response will include the follow-on group's separation, altitude, and fill-ins. [In a 2 Grp Label, just measure the slant range & add fill-ins. In a 3 or 4 Grp Label, measure Separation as straight-back Depth range between Lead Group(s) & Trail Group(s), NOT slant range.
SHOPPING
An aircraft request to FAC / JTAC / C2 platform for a target.
(system) SICK
System indicated is degraded/partially operative. Cancelled by SWEET
SINGER (type/direction)
Informative call of RWR indication of SAM launch. [See: MUD, DIRT, SAM]
SKINNY
Current survivor coordinates.
SKUNK
A radar or visual maritime surface contact whose identity is unknown. [See: ROBBER, HOSTILE]
SLAPSHOT (type/bearing)
Immediately employ a best available HARM against a specified threat at the specified bearing. [See: MAGNUM, SNIPER]
SLIP(PING) 
Time delay to individual flight / element event. [See:ROLEX, SPIN]
SMACK
Clearance to employ ordnance / fires on surface target coordinates. ROE, PID,
CDE, coordination of forces, and Commanders Guidance requirements on the referenced target/track have been satisfied. Not to be used in a CAS engagement.
SMASH (on/off)
Directive call to turn on/off anti-collision lights.
SNAKE
Directive call to oscillate an IR pointer in a figure eight about a target.
SNIPER (type, location [range, bearing])
Aircraft to employ a range-known HARM against a specified threat at the specified location. 
SORTED 
Sort responsibility within a group has been met. [See: LOCKED, TARGETED]
SPIDER
Cooperative Engagement Capable (CEC) Network
SQUAWK (mode/Code)
Operate IFF/SIF as indicated or IFF/SIF is operating as indicated.
SQUIRTER
A ground-born object of interest departing the objective area.
STAKE
1. Reference point for A/S targeting operations.
2. * A full motion video system mark has been set and is used as a frame of reference.
STARE (w/ laser code and reference point)**
Cue the laser spot search/tracker function on the specified laser code in relation to the specified reference point. Reference point may include the following: INS steerpoint, GEOREF, bearing and range or datalink point.
STROKE
Directive call for third party track production source to provide best possible continuous track data for weapon targeting purposes.
TAG (System, location)
1. Response to an emitter ambiguity resolution request (COLOR).
2. Informative call to a helicopter lead that the last aircraft of a flight is airborne.
THUMP
Aircraft will conduct low altitude, high speed pass over or abeam a designated vessel. Do not cross bow, Supersonic airspeed is authorized as long as damage is not anticipated.
TIMBER
Air control NPG of Link 16/TADIL J.
TIMECHECK
Informative call to check/change IFF code. [IAW ATO/SPINS]
TIMEOUT
Fighter assesses valid BVR shot parameters have been met and missile has reached termination.
TOY
HTS [HARM Targeting System on F-16CJ] pod.
(system) TRACKING
Enemy air defense system is maintaining situational awareness on FRIENDLY.
TRACK NUMBER (#)
Datalink information file.
UNIFORM
UHF/AM radio.
UNABLE
Cannot comply as requested or directed.
VAMPIRE
Hostile anti-ship missile. 
VANISHED
Special case of FADED defined as a GROUP/ARM/CONTACT with no available sensor data and is:
1. Not in a known sensor blind zone (terrain masking or Dopple blind zone)
2. Correlated to a shot by friendly forces.
VECTOR
Alter heading to magnetic heading indicated.
VICTOR
VHF/AM radio.
WARNING (color) 
Hostile attack is: 
RED  Imminent or in progress. 
YELLOW  Probable. 
WHITE Improbable.
WEAPONS ( ) 
(S/A) Fire only: 
FREE  At targets not identified as friendly IAW current ROE. 
TIGHT  At targets positively identified as hostile IAW current ROE. 
HOLD / SAFE* (USN/NATO) In self-defense or in response to a formal order.
NOTE: USN/NATO USE "WEAPONS SAFE" TO AVOID CONFUSION WITH THE PHRASE "HOLD FIRE."
WILCO
Will comply with received instructions.
WORDS
Directive or interrogative call regarding further information or directives pertinent to the mission.
ZIPLIP 
Directive call to minimize radio transmissions. (See MINIMIZE.)
MINIMIZE
The radio frequency is becoming saturated, degraded or jammed and briefer transmissions must follow.
(system) ACTIVE * (location/direction)
Referenced emitter is radiating at the stated location or along the stated bearing. (ELINT derived.) [Opposite of DOWN]
ANCHORED* (location)
Informative call to indicate a turning engagement at a specific location [call off Bullseye]