B

B biological (graphics, FM 1‑02)

B/P be‑prepared mission (FM 1‑02)

ba battery, see also "batt," FM 3‑23‑65)

BAA budget activity account

BAAF Badger Army ammunition plant

BAAN budget authorization account number

back tell (DOD, NATO) The transfer of information from a higher to a lower echelon of command, also track telling (FM 1‑02)

back up (vi, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

backbrief A briefing by subordinates to the commander to review how subordinates intend to accomplish their mission (FM 5-0, see also briefback)

backfire (vi, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

background (noun, vt, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

backhaul The use of transportation assets that, having deposited their primary loads, are available to remove personnel and materials from that location to another location en route to their return destination (FM 55‑1)

backhoe (noun, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

backlight (noun, verb, Merriam‑Webster online 2002)

backlog (noun, vt, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

backtrack (vi, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

backup (noun, adj, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Ninth Edition)

BAE battlefield area evaluation (FM 3‑21.20)

BAG ballistic attack game

BAI battlefield air interdiction (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑90.6, FM 7‑98, FM 3‑90.2, FM 90‑26, ARTEP 7‑30‑MTP)

bal balance (use abbreviations in graphics only)

ball‑and‑dummy method (for spelling or hyphenation only)

ballistic missile (DOD, NATO) Any missile which does not rely upon aerodynamic surfaces to produce lift and consequently follows a ballistic trajectory when thrust is terminated (FM 44‑100)

BALLWIN ballistic winds

BAMC Brooke Army Medical Center

BANDIT An aircraft identified as an enemy in accordance with theater ID criteria. The term does not necessarily imply direction or authority to engage)

bangalore torpedo (1) A manually emplaced, explosive‑filled pipe that was designed as a wire breaching device, but is also effective against simple pressure activated antipersonnel mines. It is issued as a demolition kit and consists of ten 1.5‑meter tubes. Each tube contains 4 kilograms of high explosives and weighs 6 kilograms. A kit clears a 1‑meter by 15‑meter lane (FM 3‑34.2; 2) A metal tube containing explosives and a firing mechanism often designed so that it can be joined to other such tubes and used to cut wire entanglements and detonate buried mines by being exploded flat on the ground (Webster's Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged. Merriam‑Webster, 2002. http://unabridged.merriam‑webster.com [29 Jun. 2006]); (3) A manually emplaced, 1.5‑meter long explosive‑filled tube used to breach wire and detonate simple, pressure‑activated antipersonnel mines. Ten tubes clears a 1‑ by 15‑meter lane (adapted for use in the Ranger Handbook glossary)

BANZAI Informative/directive call to execute launch and decide tactics)

BAPREPT beds and patient report

BAQ basic allowance for quarters

BAR battery acquisition radar; Browning automatic rifle (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑90.6)

barrage (DOD) 1. A prearranged barrier of fires, except that delivered by small arms, designed to protect friendly troops and installations by impeding enemy movements across defensive lines or areas (FM 6‑30. 2. A protective screen of balloons that is moored to the ground and kept at given heights to prevent or hinder operations by enemy aircraft. This meaning also called barrage balloon. 3. A type of electronic attack intended for simultaneous jamming over a wide area of frequency spectrum (FM 34‑45)

barrage fire (DOD, NATO) Fire which is designed to fill a volume of space or an area rather than aimed specifically at a given target, also call for fire (FM 6‑30)

barrage jamming (DOD) Simultaneous electromagnetic jamming over a broad band of frequencies, also jamming, FM 2‑0)

barrier (DOD) A coordinated series of obstacles designed or employed to channel, direct, restrict, delay, or stop the movement of an opposing force and to impose additional losses in personnel, time, and equipment on the opposing force. Barriers can exist naturally, be manmade, or a combination of both, also abatis; countermobility operations; obstacle (FM 3‑34)

BAS battalion aid station (FM 1‑02); basic allowance for subsistence

BASD basic active service date

BASE basic Army strategic estimates

base (DOD, NATO) 1. A locality from which operations are projected or supported. 2. An area or locality containing installations which provide logistic or other support. 3 (DOD only) Home airfield or home carrier, FM 3‑90)

BASE (+/‑ number) Reference number used to indicate such information as headings, altitude, fuels, and so on)

base cluster (DOD) In base defense operations, a collection of bases, geographically grouped for mutual protection and ease of command and control, also base, FM 3‑90)

base cluster operations center (DOD) A command and control facility that serves as the base cluster commander's focal point for defense and security of the base cluster. Also called BCOC, also base cluster, FM 3‑90)

base defense (DOD) The local military measures, both normal and emergency, required to nullify or reduce the effectiveness of enemy attacks on, or sabotage of, a base, to ensure that the maximum capacity of its facilities is available to US forces, FM 3‑90)

base defense operations center (DOD) A command and control facility established by the base commander to serve as the focal point for base security and defense. It plans, directs, integrates, coordinates, and controls all base defense efforts, and coordinates and integrates into area security operations with the rear area operations center/rear tactical operations center. Also called BDOC, FM 3‑90. (See Table 5‑8 for symbol)

base defense reaction forces Forces comprised of personnel or elements of units assigned to a specific base with the responsibility to rapidly bolster base defenses or react to an unforeseen threat (FM 3‑90)

base defense zone (DOD) An air defense zone established around an air base and limited to the engagement envelope or short‑range air defense weapons systems defending that base. Base defense zones have specific entry, exit, and identification, friend or foe procedures established. Also called BDZ, also air defense; base defense, FM 44‑100)

base development (less force beddown) (DOD) The acquisition, development, expansion, improvement, and construction and/or replacement of the facilities and resources of an area or location to support forces employed in military operations or deployed in accordance with strategic plans (NATO) The improvement or expansion of the resources and facilities of an area or a location to support military operations, also base (FM 3‑34.15, FM 1‑02)

base element See base unit (FM 1‑02)

base of fire (Army/Marine Corps) Fire [Note: the Army definition specifies "direct fire" here] placed on an enemy force or position to reduce or eliminate the enemy's capability to interfere by fire and/or movement with friendly maneuver element(s) It may be provided by a single weapon or a grouping of weapons systems, also overwatch; support by fire, FM 3‑21.20)

base unit (DOD) Unit of organization in a tactical operation around which a movement or maneuver is planned and performed, FM 3‑90)

baseline intelligence capabilities Operational capabilities of fielded Army intelligence and electronic warfare systems to detect intelligence targets, collect and process information, and produce and disseminate intelligence on a threat. These system capabilities should be grouped by discipline and assessed across all disciplines when evaluating detection, collection, and processing capabilities against a threat (FM 2‑0)

base‑of‑fire element (for spelling or hyphenation only)

basic load (DOD, NATO) The quantity of supplies required to be on hand within, and which can be moved by, a unit or formation. It is expressed according to the wartime organization of the unit or formation and maintained at the prescribed levels, FM 10‑27)

basis of issue plan (BOIP) A document prescribing the number of items issued to an individual, unit, or military activity, (TRADOC Pam 350‑70‑2)

BASOPS Base Operating Information System

bate (verb, Merriam‑Webster online 2002) to reduce in force or intensity; to restrain; to take away or deduct

BATS Bradley advanced training system (FM 3‑22.1); Ballistic Aerial Target System

batt battery (use abbreviations in graphics only)

battalion A unit consisting of two or more company‑, battery‑, or troop‑sized units and a headquarters. Also called bn (FM 3‑90; see Table 5‑6 for symbol)

battery (DOD, NATO) 1. Tactical and administrative artillery unit or subunit corresponding to a company or similar unit in other branches of the Army, FM 6‑20. 2. All guns, torpedo tubes, searchlights, or missile launchers of the same size or caliber or used for the same purpose, either installed in one ship or otherwise operating as an entity. (See Table 5‑6 for symbol)

battle A set of related engagements that lasts longer and involves larger forces than an engagement, also campaign; engagement; major operation (FM 3‑0)

battle captain The shift officer in charge within a command post, associated by position and not rank. The battle captain is located in the operations section of a command post and oversees the conduct of command post operations during his shift. The battle captain ensures that relevant information is given to decisionmakers and works closely with all members of the command group and staff (FM 1‑02)

battle command The exercise of command in operations against a hostile, thinking enemy (FM 3‑0)

battle damage assessment (DOD) The timely and accurate estimate of damage resulting from the application of military force, either lethal or nonlethal, against a predetermined objective. Battle damage assessment can be applied to the employment of all types of weapon systems (air, ground, naval, and special forces weapons systems) throughout the range of military operations. Battle damage assessment is primarily an intelligence responsibility with required inputs and coordination from the operators. Battle damage assessment is composed of physical damage assessment, functional damage assessment, and target system assessment, FM 2‑0 In Marine Corps usage, the timely and accurate estimate of the damage resulting from the application of military force. Battle damage assessment estimates physical damage to a particular target, functional damage to that target, and the capability of the entire target system to continue its operations. Also called BDA (FM 1‑02)

battle damage repair (DOD) Essential repair, which may be improvised, carried out rapidly in a battle environment in order to return damaged or disabled equipment to temporary service. Also called BDR, also cannibalize, FM 4‑30.3)

battle drill Standardized actions made in response to common battlefield occurrences. They are designed for rapid reaction situations (FM 3‑21.10)

battle handover (adj + noun)

battle handover line (no hyphen, not a unit modifier)A designated phase line on the ground where responsibility transitions from the stationary force to the moving force and vice versa. Also called BHL, also handover line (FM 3‑90)

battle position (Army) 1. A defensive location oriented on a likely enemy avenue of approach (FM 3‑90) 2. For attack helicopters, an area designated in which they can maneuver and fire into a designated engagement area or engage targets of opportunity (FM 1‑112; Marine Corps) 1. In ground operations, a defensive location oriented on an enemy avenue of approach from which a unit may defend. 2. In air operations, an airspace coordination area containing fire points for attack helicopters. Also called BP. (See Table 7‑9 for symbol)

battle staff (noun)

battlecarry [Used in FM 3‑22.1 as a single word; cannot find it in any dictionaries] (FM 3‑20.8 (17‑12‑8)

battlefield areas of influence, interest battlespace has an associated area of influence and area of interest. An area of influence is a geographical area in which a commander can directly influence operations by maneuver or fire support systems normally under the commander’s command or control. Areas of influence surround and include the associated AO. The extent of subordinate units’ areas of influence normally guides higher commanders in assigning subordinate AOs. An AO should not be substantially larger than the unit’s area of influence. An area of interest is that area of concern to the commander, including the area of influence and areas adjacent to it. It extends into enemy territory, to the objectives of current or planned operations. This area also includes areas occupied by enemy forces that could jeopardize the accomplishment of the mission. Areas of interest serve to focus intelligence development and IO directed at factors outside the AO that may affect the operation (FM 3‑0, 2001)

battlefield coordination detachment (DOD) An Army liaison provided by the Army component or force commander to the air operations center (AOC) and/or to the component designated by the joint force commander to plan, coordinate, and deconflict air operations. The battlefield coordination detachment processes Army requests for air support, monitors and interprets the land battle situation for the AOC, and provides the interface for exchange of current intelligence and operational data. Also called BCD, FM 100‑13)

battlefield information coordination center A subsection of the battalion and brigade S‑2 section. It provides detailed control and coordination of intelligence collection, production, and dissemination, thus freeing the S‑2 from routine tasks so that he can better manage the overall intelligence effort. Also called BICC (FM 2‑0)

Battlefield Operating Systems OBSOLETE; see warfighting functions (WFF)

battlefield organization The allocation of forces in the area of operations by purpose. It consists of three all‑encompassing categories of operations: decisive, shaping, and sustaining, also decisive operations; shaping operations; sustaining operations (FM 3‑0)

battlefield psychological activities (DOD, NATO) Planned psychological activities conducted as an integral part of combat operations and designed to bring psychological pressure to bear on enemy forces and civilians under enemy control in the battle area, to assist in the achievement of operational and tactical objectives, FM 3‑05.20)

battle‑focused training (for spelling or hyphenation only)

battlesight (noun, Infantry Vocabulary List)

battlespace (DOD) The environment, factors, and conditions that must be understood to successfully apply combat power, protect the force, or complete the mission. This includes air, land, sea, space, and the included enemy and friendly forces; facilities; weather; terrain; the electromagnetic spectrum; and the information environment within the operational areas and areas of interest, also electromagnetic spectrum; information environment; intelligence preparation of the battlefield; intelligence preparation of the battlespace, FM 3‑0.

The environment, factors, and conditions commanders must understand to successfully apply combat power, protect the force, or complete the mission. This includes the air, land, sea, space, and the included enemy and friendly forces, facilities, weather, terrain, the electromagnetic spectrum, and the information environment within the operational areas and areas of interest (Figure 4‑5, FM 3‑0, 2001) Battlespace is conceptual—a higher commander does not assign it. Commanders determine their battlespace based on their concept of operations, accomplishing the mission, and protecting the force. Commanders use their experience, professional knowledge, and understanding of the situation to visualize and change their battlespace as current operations transition to future operations (FM 3‑0, 2001)

Battlespace is not synonymous with AO. However, because battlespace is conceptual, Army forces conduct operations only within that portion of it delineated by their AO (FM 3‑90.1 [71‑1] and FM 3‑91 [71‑100]), the volume in which the commander seeks to dominate the enemy.

It is through his battlefield visualization that a commander decides where, when, and how he will dominate the enemy within his battlespace.

A commander's battlespace expands and contracts in relation to the ability to acquire and engage the enemy with joint or multinational forces. It can change as the commander's vision of the battlefield changes. It is influenced by time, tempo, depth, and synchronization.

Battlespace is not assigned by a higher commander. Although not shown on a map or on a computer monitor, it usually extends beyond the commander's area of operations, and may overlap with the battlespace of other commanders.

At the tactical level, the area in which a commander dominates an enemy, his battlespace, is normally smaller than his area of interest.

Key considerations in determining the size of battlespace include the depth and resolution of supporting intelligence, the commander's concept for employing both organic and supporting weapons, and the disposition of the opposing force. (See also battlefield areas of influence, interest; battlespace logistics ; commander’s battlespace; force projection bases; Top station; FM 3‑04.100 [1‑100]; FM 3‑01.12 [100‑12]; (TRADOC Pam 525‑5; and TRADOC Reg 350‑70)

Military Acronyms, Initialisms, and Abbreviation's definition matches that of its claimed source only so far. Both begin by defining battlespace this way:

"Components of this space are determined by the maximum capabilities of friendly and enemy forces to acquire and dominate each other by fires and maneuver."

MMAIA completes the definition with "…and in the electromagnetic spectrum…" whereas, its cited source, TP 525‑75, completes the definition with—"Components of this space are determined by the maximum capabilities of friendly and enemy forces to acquire and dominate each other's fires and maneuver. It includes width, depth, height, time, the electromagnetic spectrum, and human factors."

battlespace logistics Battlespace logistics perception is derived from the basic doctrine, terminology, and operational concepts for Force XXI as given in (TRADOC Pamphlet 525‑5. Battlespace logistics consorts to a logistics continuum consisting of soldiers, civilians (DOD and contractors), organizations, modular support forces, and an integrated, intelligent, and networked information system (FM 42‑414)

BAY [NATO] (EW) Carry out deception plan indicated or in accordance with previous orders)

BBS brigade battalion simulation (FM 7‑1, ARTEP 7‑30-MTP); need definition (TC 90‑1)

BBSAAR need definition (TC 90‑1)

BC battery commander; Bradley commander (ARTEP 7‑7J‑DRILL (FM 3‑21.71, FM 3‑22.1, STP 7‑11M14‑SM‑TG)

BCA battery control area

BCAT base camp assistance/assessment team (FM 1‑02)

BCC battlefield circulation control (FM 3‑90.6); battlefield coordination center (FM 90‑26; battery control central

BCD battlefield coordination detachment (FM 1‑02); bad conduct discharge; binary coded decimal

BCE baseline cost estimate; Bradley crew evaluator (FM 3‑22.1)

BCIS Battlefield combat identification system (FM 3‑22.1)

BCLS basic cardiac life support

BCOC base camp operations center; base cluster operations center (FM 1‑02)

BCPC Bradley crew proficiency course (FM 3‑22.1, FM 7‑1)

BCS Battery Computer System

BCS3 Battle Command Sustainment and Support System (FM 3‑21.20)

BCT basic combat training; brigade combat team, of which there are three types: the Infantry brigade combat team (IBCT), the Heavy brigade combat team (HBCT), and the Stryker brigade combat team (SBCT; FM 3‑21.20)

BCTB Basic Combat Training Brigade

BCTP battle command training program (FM 1‑02)

BD battle drill (ARTEP 7‑92-MTP); biocular display (FM 3‑22.1); bomb disposal

BDA battle damage assessment (FM 1‑02)

BDAR battle damage assessment and repair (FM 3‑21.20, FM 7‑98, FM 3‑06.11, ARTEP 7‑94-MTP); battlefield damage assessment and repair

BDB Base Development Board

BDC brigade data center

BDD blanket delivery date

bde brigade (FM 1‑02, FM 7‑0, FM 7‑1 (25‑101); use abbreviations only in graphics)

BDE base defensive effort (FM 7‑98)

BDELT brigade landing team

BDF base defensive force (FM 7‑98)

BDFA basic daily food allowance

BDL battery data link

BDO battle dress overgarments (FM 3‑21.10)

BDOC base defense operations center (FM 1‑02)

BDP base development plan

BDR battle damage repair (FM 1‑02)

bdry boundary (use abbreviations only in graphics)

BDS British Defense Staff

BDU battle dress uniform (FM 1‑02, obsolete; see/use ACU); battery display unit (FM 3‑06.11, ARTEP 7‑94‑MTP)

BDZ base defense zone (FM 1‑02)

beach capacity (DOD, NATO) An estimate, expressed in terms of measurement tons, or weight tons, of cargo that may be unloaded over a designated strip of shore per day, FM 55‑60)

beach group See shore party (FM 1‑02)

beachhead (DOD, NATO) A designated area on a hostile or potentially hostile shore that, when seized and held, ensures the continuous landing of troops and materiel, and provides maneuver space requisite for subsequent projected operations ashore, also amphibious operation, FM 3‑21.10)

bead window Last transmission potentially disclosed unauthorized information)

beam (w/cardinal direction)* Contact stabilized within 70 to 110 degrees of aspect (NOTE: NATO = 60 to 120 degrees of aspect.)

beanstalk [NATO] Information call advising datalink users to check equipment for spurious tracks)

bearing ** (w/subcardinal direction) Inner group formation with the trailer displaced approximately 45 degrees behind the leader)

beaten zone (DOD) The area on the ground upon which the cone of fire falls, also cone of fire, FM 3‑22.68)

BECAMP Ballistic Environmental Characteristics and Measurement Program

BECOORD brigade effects coordinator

BEFOURRA Belgian Fourragere

begin morning civil twilight (DOD) The period of time at which the sun is halfway between beginning morning and nautical twilight and sunrise, when there is enough light to see objects clearly with the unaided eye. At this time, light intensification devices are no longer effective, and the sun is six degrees below the eastern horizon. Also called BMCT, also begin morning nautical twilight; end evening civil twilight; end of evening nautical twilight, FM 2‑030)

begin morning nautical twilight (DOD) The start of that period where, in good conditions and in the absence of other illumination, enough light is available to identify the general outlines of ground objects and conduct limited military operations. Light intensification devices are still effective and may have enhanced capabilities. At this time the sun is 12 degrees below the eastern horizon. Also called BMNT, also begin morning civil twilight; end evening civil twilight; end of evening nautical twilight, FM 2‑030)

belay any action taken to stop a climber's fall or to control the rate a load descends

beleaguered (DOD) A casualty who is a member of an organized element that has been surrounded by a hostile force to prevent escape of its members, also missing, FM 4‑02)

BELRF Bradley eye‑safe laser range finder (FM 3‑22.1)

BEMAR backlog of essential maintenance and repair

BENELUX Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg

BENT beginning evening nautical twilight

bent (system) System indicated is inoperative. Cancelled by OKAY)

BEP ballistic eye protection; Budget Execution Plan

be‑prepared mission A mission assigned to a unit that might be executed. It is generally a contingency mission which will be executed because something planned has or has not been successful. In planning priorities, it is planned after any on‑order missions, also on‑order mission (FM 5-0)

BEQ bachelor enlisted quarters

BER budget execution review

BERADEV Berlin Airlift Device

BERH Board of Engineers for Rivers and Harbors

BESD basic enlisted service date

besieged (DOD) A casualty who is a member of an organized element that has been surrounded by a hostile force, compelling it to surrender, also missing, FM 4‑02)

BESRL Behavior and Systems Research Laboratory

BEWSS battlefield effects weapons simulation system

BEXEC budget execution

BF battle fatigue; beginning of radioactive fallout (FM 1‑02)

BFA blank firing attachment; blank firing adapter

BFD Budget Formulation Directive

bfg briefing (use abbreviations only in graphics)

BFM battlefield forecast model (ARTEP 71‑2‑MTP)

BFO beat frequency oscillator

BFORM budget formulation

BFSB battlefield surveillance brigade (FM 3‑21.20)

BFT blue force tracking (FM 3‑21.20)

BFV Bradley fighting vehicle (FM 1‑02)

BFV‑ODS‑ST BFV Operation Desert Storm Sustainment Training, BELRF and Dcsig01.htm

BFVS Bradley fighting vehicle systems

BG brigadier general (FM 1‑02); beach group

BGDA Blue Grass Depot Activity

BGM basic guided missile (FM 3‑22.1)

BGSS battalion ground surveillance section

BGST Bradley Gunnery Skills Test (FM 3‑22.1); Bradley Gunner's Skill Test (FM 3‑22.34 (23‑34, FM 7‑1)

bhd beachhead (use abbreviations in graphics only)

BHL battle handover line (FM 1‑02)

BI background investigation; battlefield illumination; branch immaterial

BIC battlefield information center

BICC battlefield (not battalion) information coordination (not control) center (FM 1‑02)

BIDS biological integrated detection system (FM 3‑90.1)

BII basic issue item

BIIL basic issue item list

BINGO Fuel state needed for recovery)

binocular Two optical paths that produce a stereoscopic (dual) image, also biocular and monocular)

binos binoculars

bio biography, biographics (use abbreviations only in graphics)

biocular Two optical paths that produce a monoscopic (single) image that appears to exist in more than two dimensions (3‑D effect), also binocular and monocular. Read all about virtual reality (VR) here)

biographical intelligence (DOD) That component of intelligence that deals with individual foreign personalities of actual or potential importance (FM 2‑0)

biol biological (FM 1‑02, use abbreviations only in graphics)

BIOLDEF biological defense

biological agent (DOD) A microorganism that causes disease in personnel, plants, or animals or causes the deterioration of materiel, also biological marker; biological operation; chemical agent, FM 3‑9)

biological marker Characteristics of a biological agent (organism, virus, toxin, or product) that are specific to the agent, also biological agent (FM 4‑02.7)

biological operation (DOD) Employment of biological agents to produce casualties in personnel or animals and damage to plants, also biological agent, FM 3‑9)

biological warfare agent definitive identification and confirmation The specific identification of a suspect biological agent as to genus, species, serological type, or toxin. This level of identification is by means of devices, materials, and/or technologies that are based on two or more independent bio‑marker results and using different methodologies. This level of identification is performed in a reference laboratory with a broader variety of methodologies available and highly skilled testing personnel, thus providing the highest levels of accuracy, also biological agent; biological marker; biological warfare agent field confirmation identification; biological warfare agent presumptive identification (FM 4‑02.7)

biological warfare agent field confirmation identification Identification of a suspect biological warfare agent by means of devices, materials, and/or technologies that are based on detecting biological markers using two or more independent bio‑marker results, also biological agent; biological marker; biological warfare agent definitive identification and confirmation; biological warfare agent presumptive identification (FM 4‑02.7)

biological warfare agent presumptive identification Identification of a suspect biological warfare agent by means of devices, materials, and/or technologies that are based on detecting biological markers using a single methodology. The bio‑markers and/or methodologies used at this level of testing have significant limits to their accuracy, also biological agent; biological marker; biological warfare agent definitive identification and confirmation; biological warfare agent field confirmation identification (FM 4‑02.7)

BIOLOPS biological operations

BIOLREPT biological report

BIOLRSCH biological research

BIOLWPN biological weapons

BIOLWPNSYS biological weapon system

bird friendly surface‑to‑air missile

BIRD(S) AFFIRM Surface‑to‑air informative call indicating a friendly unit is able and prepared to engage a specified target with SAMs. Opposite of bird(s) negat)

BIRD(S) NEGAT Surface‑to‑air informative call indicating a friendly unit is unable to engage a specified target with SAMs. Opposite of bird(s) affirm)

BIRDIE battery integration and radar display equipment

BIT built‑in test

BITE built in test equipment

BITTERSWEET Notification of possible blue‑on‑blue (fratricide) on blue‑on‑neutral situation relative to a designated track or friendly aircraft)

BJCEB British Joint Communications‑Electronics Board

BJU beach jumper unit

bl bombline (use abbreviations only in graphics)

BL bill of lading; basic load (ammunition)

black propaganda (DOD, NATO) Propaganda that purports to emanate from a source other than the true one, FM 33‑1‑1)

blast effect (DOD) Destruction of or damage to structures and personnel by the force of an explosion on or above the surface of the ground. Blast effect may be contrasted with the cratering and ground‑shock effects of a projectile or charge that goes off beneath the surface, FM 5‑250)

bldg building (use abbreviations only in graphics)

BLEPS ballistics/laser eye protection system (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑90.6)

blind No visual contact with friendly aircraft/ground position. Opposite of VISUAL)

blind transmission (DOD) Any transmission of information that is made without expectation of acknowledgment, FM 11‑32)

blister agent (DOD, NATO) A chemical agent which injures the eyes and lungs, and burns or blisters the skin. Also called vesicant agent, FM 3‑7)

bloc blockade (use abbreviations in graphics only)

block 1. A tactical mission task that denies the enemy access to an area or prevents his advance in a direction or along an avenue of approach. 2. An obstacle effect that integrates fire planning and obstacle effort to stop an attacker along a specific avenue of approach or to prevent him from passing through an engagement area, also contain; disrupt; fix; turn (FM 3‑90; see Table 7‑14 and Table A‑1 for symbol)

block minefield A minefield used to achieve a block obstacle effect. Typically consists of a series of minefields arrayed to affect the entire width of an avenue of approach, but in relatively shallow depth. A block effect minefield is the most resource intensive type of minefield and must be capable of defeating mechanical and dismounted breach efforts (FM 90‑7)

blocking position (DOD, NATO) A defensive position so sited as to deny the enemy access to a given area or to prevent the enemy's advance in a given direction, also battle position; block; strong point, FM 3‑90)

blood agent (DOD, NATO) A chemical compound, including the cyanide group, that affects bodily functions by preventing the normal utilization of oxygen by body tissues, FM 3‑07)

blood chit (DOD) A small sheet of material depicting an American flag and a statement in several languages to the effect that anyone assisting the bearer to safety will be rewarded, also civil affairs, FM 41‑10)

blotter [NATO] (EW) ECM receiver)

blow through Directive/informative call that aircraft will continue straight ahead at the merge and not become anchored with target(s)

blowback (DOD, NATO) 1. Escape, to the rear and under pressure, of gases formed during the firing of the weapon. Blowback may be caused by a defective breech mechanism, a ruptured cartridge case, or a faulty primer. 2. Type of weapon operation in which the force of expanding gases acting to the rear against the face of the bolt furnishes all the energy required to initiate the complete cycle of operation. A weapon which employs this method of operation is characterized by the absence of any breech‑lock or bolt‑lock mechanism, FM 6‑50)

BLPS ballistic laser protection system (FM 3‑90.2)

BLSJICP beam lead sealed junction integrated circuit package

BLTM battalion‑level training model (ARTEP 7‑20‑MTP)

BLUFOR blue force (ARTEP 7‑20‑MTP, ARTEP 71‑2‑MTP)

BM bench mark; branch material

BMCT begin morning civil twilight (FM 1‑02)

BMD a vehicle made by the former Soviet Union; ballistic missile defense

BMDATC Ballistic Missile Defense Advanced Technology Center

BMDC Ballistic Missile Defense Center

BMDCP ballistic missile defense command post; Battalion Mortar and Davy Crockett Platoon

BMDEAR Ballistic Missile Defense Emergency Action Report

BMDITP Ballistic Missile Defense Integrated Training Plan

BMDMB ballistic missile defense missile battalion

BMDMP Ballistic Missile Defense Master Plan

BMD‑NEAT Ballistic Missile Defense‑Nuclear Effects and Threat Committee

BMDO Ballistic Missile Defense Operations

BMDOA Ballistic Missile Defense Operations Activity

BMDPM Ballistic Missile Defense Program Manager

BMDPO Ballistic Missile Defense Program Office

BMDSB ballistic missile defense surveillance battalion

BMDSCOM Ballistic Missile Defense Systems Command

BMEWS ballistic missile early warning system

BMG budget and manpower guidance

BML by‑product materials license (BCHM1 ‘99)

BMM borrowed military manpower

BMMP (a Threat weapon, ARTEP 7‑91‑MTP)

BMNT begin morning nautical twilight, JP 1‑02 (not "beginning" as usually used; researched this with Dr. Harold Orenstein, the Army's terminologist, and this is what we found; see also EENT)

BMO battalion maintenance officer (FM 3‑90.1, FM 3‑90.2); battalion motor officer (FM 3‑21.20)

BMP an old, lightly armored, threat fighting vehicle made by the former Soviet Union

BMP3‑S a ground target

BMRMO balance mobilization reserve materiel objective

BMRSYS Ballistic Missile Reentry System

BMS battalion motor sergeant (FM 3‑21.20)

BMT battalion maintenance team (ARTEP 71‑2-MTP); battalion maintenance technician (FM 3‑21.20, ARTEP 7‑94‑MTP)

BMU beachmaster unit

bn battalion (FM 1‑02, FM 7‑0, FM 7‑1 (25‑101); use abbreviations only in graphics)

BNCOC Basic noncommissioned officers' course; IAW FY 08 TRADOC CTG, this will change NLT 1 May 2008 to ALC. See also M-SLC.

BNSFCP battalion shore fire control party

BNW battlefield nuclear warfare (ARTEP 7‑30‑MTP)

BOB beginning of business

BOC battalion operation center (AD)

BOD bore obstruction device (BCHM1 ’99)

body belay belay that uses the belayer's body to apply friction by routing the rope around the his body

BOGEY A radar or visual air CONTACT whose identity is unknown)

BOGEY DOPE Request for target information as requested or for closest group in BRAA (with appropriate fill‑ins)

BOI basis of issue

BOIMARS Basis of Issue Monitoring and Recording System

BOIP basis of issue plan

BOIP II basis‑of‑issue plan II

BOLAD boundary outer limit alert distances (FM 3‑22.91)

BOLC Basic Officer Leadership Course

BOLT brigade operational legal team

BOM bill of materials (FM 1‑02)

BOMREP bombing report

booby trap (DOD) An explosive or nonexplosive device or other material deliberately placed to cause casualties when an apparently harmless object is disturbed or a normally safe act is performed (NATO) A device designed, constructed, or adapted to kill or injure, which functions when a person disturbs or approaches an apparently harmless object or performs an apparently safe act, FM 20‑32. (See Table 7‑14 for symbol)

BOP balance of payments; basic operation plan

BOPA Balance of Payments Act

BOPP balance of payment programmed

BOQ bachelor officers' quarters

BOR board of review

bore‑safe (adj)

boresight (verb, Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged); boresighting aligns a sight to an aim point, whereas zeroing aligns the sight to the point of impact)

BOS OBSOLETE; see warfighting functions (WFF)

BOT burst on target

bound (DOD, NATO) 1. In land warfare, a single movement, usually from cover to cover, made by troops often under enemy fire. 2 (DOD only) Distance covered in one movement by a unit that is advancing by bounds, FM 3‑90)

boundary (DOD) A line that delineates surface areas for the purpose of facilitating coordination and deconfliction of operations between adjacent units, formations, or areas, also airhead; airspace coordination area; area of operations; bridgehead, FM 3‑90. (See Table 7‑7 for symbols.)

bounding overwatch A movement technique used when contact with enemy forces is expected. The unit moves by bounds. One element is always halted in position to overwatch another element while it moves. The overwatching element is positioned to support the moving unit by fire or fire and movement, also overwatch (FM 3‑90)

bowline on a coil knot used to secure a climber to the end of a climbing rope

BOX A picture label with groups in a square or offset square. (See CHAMPAGNE and VIC for group names.)

box formation A unit formation with subordinate elements arranged in a box or square, or two elements up and two elements back. It is a flexible formation that provides equal firepower in all directions. It is generally used when the enemy location is known. This formation can cause 50 percent of force to be decisively engaged at the same time, therefore limiting the combat power available to maneuver against an enemy, also column formation; echelon formation; formation; line formation; movement formation; vee formation; wedge formation (FM 3‑90)

BP battle position (FM 1‑02); base point, basic pay, Budget Program

BPA budget project account; blanket purchase agreement

BPAD broadcast public affairs detachment (FM 1‑02)

BPC battery power condition (FM 3‑22.34)

BPD basic planning document

BPED basic pay entry date

BPHI boost phase intercept

BPI bolt position indicator (FM 3‑22.1); [binary] bits per inch

BPPC Bradley Platoon Proficiency Course (FM 3‑22.1)

BPRF bullet proof

BPSE brigade psychological operations support element (FM 3‑90.6)

BPU base production unit

BQM‑34 (Firebee) A subscale aerial target

br branch

BRAA bearing, range, altitude, aspect (FM 1‑02)

bracket Directive call to maneuver to a position on opposing sides, either (direction) laterally or vertically from the target)

bracketing (DOD, NATO) A method of adjusting fire in which a bracket is established by obtaining an over and a short along the spotting line, and then successively splitting the bracket in half until a target hit or desired bracket is obtained, FM 6‑30)

branch (DOD) 1. A subdivision of any organization. 2. A geographically separate unit of an activity which performs all or part of the primary functions of the parent activity on a smaller scale. Unlike an annex, a branch is not merely an overflow addition. 3. An arm of service of the Army. 4. The contingency options built into the basic plan. A branch is used for changing the mission, orientation, or direction of movement of a force to aid success of the operation based on anticipated events, opportunities, or disruptions caused by enemy actions and reactions (Army) A contingency plan or course of action (an option built into the basic plan or course of action) for changing the mission, disposition, orientation, or direction of movement of the force to aid success of the current operation, based on anticipated events, opportunities, or disruptions caused by enemy actions. Army forces prepare branches to exploit success and opportunities, or to counter disruptions caused by enemy actions. FM 3‑0, also contingency plan; course of action; operation order; sequel; wargaming (FM 1‑02)

BRC Budget Review Committee

BRD bomb‑release distance

BRDM a scout car made by the former Soviet Union

breach (Army) A tactical mission task in which the unit employs all available means to break through or secure a passage through an enemy defense, obstacle, minefield, or fortification (FM 3‑90; Marine Corps) The employment of any means available to break through or secure a passage through an obstacle. (See Table A‑1 for symbol)

breach area The area where a breaching operation occurs. The breach area is established and fully defined by the higher headquarters of the unit conducting breaching operations (FM 3‑34.2)

breach force A combined arms force task‑organized with the maneuver and engineer forces necessary to reduce obstacles and create lanes through an obstacle to pass initial assault forces through the lanes, also assault force; support force (FM 3‑34.2)

breaching fundamentals Suppress, obscure, secure, reduce, and assault (SOSRA) are the breaching fundamentals that must be applied when breaching against a defending enemy. These fundamentals will always apply, but they may vary based on the specific battlespace situation (FM 3‑34.2)

breaching operations Operations conducted to allow maneuver despite the presence of obstacles. Breaching is a synchronized combined arms operation under the control of the maneuver commander. Breaching operations begin when friendly forces detect an obstacle and begin to apply the breaching fundamentals, and they end when battle handover has occurred between follow‑on forces and a unit conducting the breaching operation (FM 3‑34.2)

break A procedure word meaning, "I hereby indicate the separation of the text from other portions of the message." (FM 24‑19)

break (direction) Directive call to perform an immediate maximum performance 180‑degree turn (or as directed) in the indicated direction)

break away (verb) tanker or receiver call indicating immediate vertical and nose/tail separation between tanker and receiver is required)

break down (verb)

breakaway (adj)

breakbulk cargo (DOD) Any commodity that, because of its weight, dimensions, or incompatibility with other cargo, must be shipped by mode other than military van or SEAVAN (Army) Cargo which is not shipped in a container (FM 10‑1)

breakdown (noun)

breakout An operation conducted by an encircled force to regain freedom of movement or contact with friendly units. It differs from other attacks only in that a simultaneous defense in other areas of the perimeter must be maintained, also encirclement; follow and support; main body; rear guard; rupture (FM 3‑90)

breakpoint stops action when a certain point is reached, also catchpoint and watchpoint)

breakthrough A rupturing of the enemy's forward defenses that occurs as a result of a penetration. A breakthrough permits the passage of an exploitation force, also attack; exploitation; pursuit (FM 3‑90)

brevity code (DOD, NATO) A code which provides no security but which has as its sole purpose the shortening of messages rather than the concealment of their content, FM 3‑54.10)

brevity** Directive call indicating the radio frequency is becoming saturated, degraded, or jammed and briefer transmissions must follow (NOTE: see NATO term ZIPLIP.)

bridgehead (DOD) An area of ground held or to be gained on the enemy's side of an obstacle (Army) In river crossing operations, an area on the enemy's side of the water obstacle that is large enough to accommodate the majority of the crossing force, has adequate terrain to permit defense of the crossing sites, provides security of crossing forces from enemy direct fire, and provides a base for continuing the attack (FM 90‑13, FM 1‑02); (noun, Merriam‑Webster online 2003) a fortification protecting the end of a bridge nearest an enemy; an area around the end of a bridge; an advanced position seized in hostile territory)

bridgehead force A force that assaults across a river to secure the enemy side of a river (the bridgehead) to allow the buildup and passage of a breakout force during river crossing operations (FM 90‑13)

bridgehead line (DOD, NATO) The limit of the objective area in the development of the bridgehead, also objective area, FM 90‑13. (See Table 7‑11 for symbol)

BRIDGEREP report of bridge, overpass, culvert, underpass, or tunnel (FM 3‑90.1)

brief a presentation of information from one leader to another, up or down the chain of command.  Brief types are distinguished by who is briefing whom and by the time and contents of the brief.’ Brief types include confirmation briefs, mission analysis briefs, course of action (COA) decision briefs, briefbacks, initial GO/NO‑GO briefs, mission concept briefs (MICONs), final GO/NO‑GO briefs, and debriefs)

brief back (verb + adv)

briefback (noun) If you have one, please email a definition (cite your sources, please) differentiating a briefback from a backbrief, identification of which is correct, or any other information you might have)

brig brigadier (use abbreviations only in graphics)

brigade (DOD) A unit usually smaller than a division to which are attached groups and/or battalions and smaller units tailored to meet anticipated requirements (Army) A unit consisting of two or more battalions and a headquarters. Also called bde (FM 3‑90; see Table 5‑6 for symbol)

brigade support area A designated area in which combat service support elements from division support command and corps support command provide logistic support to a brigade. Also called BSA (FM 3‑90.6)

brigade‑size unit currently preferred over brigade‑sized unit

British junction knot knot used to join the ends of detonation cords from multiple charges to one initiation system

BRL bomb release line

BRM basic rifle marksmanship

broadcast Request/directive call to switch to broadcast control format)

broadcast dissemination The simultaneous dissemination of combat information, intelligence, targeting information, and so on. to multiple terminals at multiple echelons in order to provide immediate combat information and intelligence (FM 2‑0)

broke lock Advisory call regarding loss of radar/IR lock‑on)

brow pad (noun)

BRS base radio station (FM 3‑55.93)

BRUISER Friendly air‑launched antiship missile)

BSA brigade support area (FM 1‑02, FM 7‑1); Basic Standardization Agreement (FM 7‑1)

BSB base support battalion

BSC brigade support company (FM 3‑21.20)

BSD Bradley subcaliber device

BSEP basic skills education program

BSFV Bradley Stinger fighting vehicle (FM 3‑22.1, FM 3‑90.1) adds "missile" in parentheses after "Stinger."

BSM Bronze Star Medal

BSMC brigade support medical company (FM 3‑21.20)

BSPC Bradley section proficiency course

BSS ballistic solution software (FM 3‑22.1)

BSSE Bradley squad/section exercise (FM 3‑22.1)

BSX battle simulation exercise (FM 7‑1)

BT basic training; Bradley table (FM 3‑22.1, FM 7‑1)

BTB blind transmission broadcast(s

BTC bridge team commander

BTE battery terminal equipment

btl battle (FM 7‑1 (25‑101); use abbreviations only in graphics)

BTMS battalion training management system (ARTEP 7‑90‑MTP, ARTEP 7‑91‑MTP, ARTEP 7‑92‑MTP, ARTEP 71‑2-MTP); (obsolete: replaced by "training management"

BTO bombing through overcast; branch transportation office(r)

BTR a light armored vehicle made by the former Soviet Union (FM 3‑22.1); a personnel carrier made by the former Soviet Union; A type of non‑US personnel carrier built by the former Soviet Union— (FM 3‑23.25) Formerly, a Threat vehicle (FM 3‑21.71, FM 3‑21.8, FM 3‑90.2); A Threat personnel carrier (FM 3‑21.20); Russian abbreviation for armored personnel carrier; Soviet personnel carrier (wheeled, FM 3‑21.20. BTRs: Threat fighting vehicles (FM 3‑06.11)

btry battery (FM 1‑02, use abbreviations only in graphics)

BTU British thermal unit

BTV Bradley TOW vehicle (FM 3‑22.34)

BUA built‑up area (ARTEP 71‑2‑STP)

BUC brain‑actuated controls, also HMD)

bud budget

buddy (lase/guide)** (A/S) Request or informative communications to have guidance of a weapon from a source other than delivering aircraft)

buddy lock Locked to a known friendly aircraft. Normally a response to a "SPIKED" or "BUDDY SPIKE" call)

buddy spike Friendly aircraft radar lock‑on indication on radar warning receiver (position/heading/alt; RWR)

buddy system (Merriam‑Webster online 2003) an arrangement in which two individuals are paired (as for mutual safety in a hazardous situation)

buddy team The initial building block that lays the foundation for live fire by the maneuver element—the squad, platoon, or company, TC 7‑9)

buffer zone (DOD) A defined area controlled by a peace operations force from which disputing or belligerent forces have been excluded. A buffer zone is formed to create an area of separation between disputing or belligerent forces and reduce the risk of renewed conflict. Also called area of separation in some United Nations operations. Also called BZ, FM 3‑07)

bugout (direction) Separation from that particular engagement/attack/operation with no intent to reengage/return)

BUIC back‑up interceptor control

build up (verb + adv)

buildup (noun, Merriam‑Webster online and DOD, NATO) The process of attaining prescribed strength of units and prescribed levels of vehicles, equipment, stores, and supplies. Also may be applied to the means of accomplishing this process, FM 100‑17)

built‑in test (for spelling or hyphenation only)

built‑up areas (for spelling or hyphenation only)

bulk cargo (DOD) That which is generally shipped in volume where the transportation conveyance is the only external container, such as liquids, ore, or grain (Army) Cargo with dimensions less than oversized cargo and cargo that fits on a 463L aircraft pallet (FM 4‑01.30)

bulk petroleum product (DOD, NATO) A liquid petroleum product transported by various means and stored in tanks or containers having an individual fill capacity greater than 250 liters, FM 10‑67)

bulk storage (DOD) 1. Storage in a warehouse of supplies and equipment in large quantities, usually in original containers, as distinguished from bin storage. 2. Storage of liquids, such as petroleum products, in tanks, as distinguished from drum or packaged storage, also bulk cargo; bulk petroleum product, FM 10‑67)

Bulldog (S/S) Friendly surface‑/submarine‑launched antiship missile)

bulldozer (Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition)

bullhorn (noun, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition)

bullring (AIR‑MAR) Maritime aircraft patrol)

bullseye An established reference point from which the position of an object can be referenced by bearing (magnetic) and range (NM) from this point)

bump plan In movement, a plan that describes in detail which individuals and equipment in each designated load or chalk has priority over the others. This plan is used when the means of transportation (truck, helicopter, airplane, or ship) cannot carry all of a particular load, also chalk (FM 55‑1)

bump/bump‑up (A/S) A climb to acquire line of sight (LOS) to the target or laser designation)

burn** Informative call that Gated Laser Illuminator (GLINT) is being used to provide illumination. Typically employed by AC‑130 to illuminate surface points of interest)

burster (noun, Merriam‑Webster Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged online 2002) an explosive charge used to break open and scatter the contents of chemical shells, bombs, and mines (FM 3‑22.1)

buster Directive call to fly at maximum continuous speed (military power)

BUT basic unit training

butt plate the usually metal plate on the butt end of a gunstock

button Radio channel setting

buttstock (noun, Merriam‑Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, Tenth Edition)

buzzer** Electronics communications jamming (NOTE: same as NATO term CHATTER.)

BV bureau voucher

BVG battlefield visualization graphics

BVR beyond visual range (FM 1‑02)

BY budget year

bypass A tactical mission task in which the commander directs his unit to maneuver around an obstacle, avoiding combat with an enemy force (FM 3‑90; see Table 7‑14 and Table A‑1 for symbol)

bypass criteria Measures during the conduct of an offensive operation established by higher headquarters that specify the conditions and size under which enemy units and contact may be avoided (FM 3‑90)

BZ buffer zone (FM 1‑02)