F

 

F                                                                             Fahrenheit

F&AO                                         finance and accounting officer (FM 3‑90.6)

FA                                             field artillery (FM 1‑02)

FAA                                           forward assembly area (FM 1‑02); Federal Aviation Administration; forward alighting area (FM 3‑90.6)

FAAD                                         forward area air defense (FM 1‑02)

FAADEZ                                      forward area air defense engagement zone (FM 1‑02)

FAAO                                         field artillery air observer

FAAR                                         forward area alerting radar

FAARP                                        forward area arming and refueling point (FM 3‑21.38)

FAAS                                         forward area alerting system

FAAWC                                      force antiair warfare commander (FM 1‑02)

FAB                                           field artillery brigade

FAC                                           forward air controller (FM 1‑02)

FAC‑A                                        forward air controller‑airborne (FM 1‑02)

FACCONCEN                                facilities control center

FACE                                         facilities and communication evaluation; forward aviation (FM 90‑26)

Facepiece                                   (noun, Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged)

FACI                                          first article configuration inspection

FACP                                         forward air control post

FACR                                         first article configuration review

FACS                                         Field Army Communication System

FAD                                           force/activity designator; Funding Authorization Document

FADAC                                                                 field artillery digital automatic computer

FADED                                       Radar contact is lost on nonfriendly air/surface contact and any positional information given is estimated)

FADM                                                                    fleet admiral

FAE                                                                        fuel air explosive

FAIO                                                                     Field Army Issuing Office; field artillery intelligence officer

FAISS                                                                   Forces Command Automated Intelligence Support System. The AN/UYK‑71A, FAISS, is a corps and division Disk Operating System (DOS) compatible processing and dissemination system. The system was one of the first desktop computers fielded to corps through ACR TCAEs in the continental United States (CONUS) The system allows analysts to import, export, and manage SIGINT, topographic, collateral, and national systems databases and messages. Any database records, such as unit position or topographic indicators, can be plotted on maps displayed on the system's video monitors. The FAISS will be retained in some units to provide a minimum automation capability until ASAS is fully fielded

fallout                                        (DOD) The precipitation to Earth of radioactive particulate matter from a nuclear cloud; also applied to the particulate matter itself, also downwind hazard area; radiation dose; radiation dose rate; radiation status, FM 3‑3‑1)

FALO                                                                     forward air liaison officer, Air Force career definitions

FALT                                                                     field artillery logic tester

FAM                                                                       field artillery missile; full Army mobilization war reserves

FAMC                                                                    Fitzsimons Army Medical Center

FAMF                                                                    floating aircraft maintenance facility

family of scatterable mines            A grouping of munitions that dispenses scatterable mines (scatmines) by artillery, helicopter, fixed wing, or ground launchers. There are antipersonnel and antitank mines. Also called FASCAM, also minefield; scatterable mines (FM 20‑32)

FAMS                                                                    Field Army Messenger Service

FAMSIM                                              ??? (TC 90-1)

FAO                                                                       finance and accounting office(r); foreign area officer

FAP                                                                        Finance and Accounting Policy

FAPO                                                                    Field Army Petroleum Office

FAQ                                                                       frequently asked questions, (TRADOC Pamphlet 350‑70‑2)

FAR                                                                        Federal Aviation Regulations; forward acquisition radar; Federal Acquisition Regulation

FARC                                                                     Federal Archives and Records Center

FARP                                         forward arming and refueling point (FM 1‑02)

FARS                                                                     Field Army Replacement System

FAS                                                                       field alert status; force accounting system; Foreign Agricultural Service; Federation of American Scientists, authors of the Military Lexicon; forward aid station (FM 3‑21.20)

FASA                                                                    Field Army Service Area

FASCAM                                     family of scatterable mines (FM 1‑02)

fascines                                     Large cylindrical bundles of material, usually wooden poles or plastic or metal pipe loosely bound together, which are dropped into ditches or gaps to create crossings, also block; obstacle (FM 3‑34.2)

FASCO                                                                 Forward Area Support Coordination Officer

FASO                                                                    forward airfield supply organization

FASP                                         field artillery support plan (FM 3‑21.20)

FAST                                                                    forward area support team (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑90.6, FM 3‑06.11, FM 90‑26, ARTEP 7‑30-MTP); Freight Automated System for Traffic Management (ARTEP 7‑20‑MTP (FM 3‑06.11); Freight Automated System for Traffic Management

FAST*                                       Target speed is estimated to be 600‑900 knots/Mach 1‑1.5 (NOTE: NATO = 400 knots to 600 knots/Mach 1.)

FATAB                                                                  field artillery target acquisition battalion

FATAG                                                                 field artillery target acquisition group

FATHER                                      (AIR‑MAR) Shipboard TACAN station)

FATOC                                                                 Field Army Tactical Operation Center

FAW                                                                      forward area weapons

fax                                            facsimile (FM 1‑02)

FB                                             fire base (FM 1‑02); firing battery

FBCB2                                        Force XXI battle command—brigade and below (FM 1‑02)

FBHDL                                                                  force beachhead line

FBI                                                                         Federal Bureau of Investigation

FBIS                                                                      Foreign Broadcast Information Service

FBM                                                                       fleet ballistic missile

FBR                                                                        fireball radius

FBRL                                                                      final bomb release line

FC                                                                          field circular (ARTEP 7‑92-MTP); Finance Corps; Fire Control; functional chief (of a civilian career program); fund code

FCC                                           flight coordination center (FM 1‑02); Federal Communications Commission; Flight Communications Center; Flight Coordination Center

FCCB                                                                     Field Configuration Control Board

FCDA                                                                    Federal Civil Defense Administration

FCDIVBAD                                                          First Class Diver Badge

FCG                                                                       foreign clearance guide (military)

FCGS                                                                    freight classification guide system

FCIP                                                                      field cable installation platoon

FCJ                                                                        foreign criminal jurisdiction

FCL                                           final coordination line (FM 1‑02)

FCLP                                                                     field carrier landing practice

FCPC                                                                     Federal Committee on Pest Control

FCR                                           fire control radar (FM 3‑21.20)

FCRC                                                                     Federal Contract Research Center

FCRU                                                                     facilities control relay unit

FCS                                                                       fire control system; frame check sequencing (FM 3‑22.91)

FCSC                                                                    Foreign Claims Settlement Commission

FCT                                                                       fire control team (FM 3‑90.6); firepower control team (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑22.90, FM 3‑90.2, FM 90‑26)

FCTN                                                                    function, STP 7‑11M14‑SM‑TG)

FCU                                                                       field communication unit

FCX                                                                       fire coordination exercise (FM 7‑0, FM 7‑1, ARTEP 71‑2‑MTP)

FD                                                                          fire direction (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑90.6, FM 3‑22.90, FM 3‑90.1, FM 3‑90.2); financial detachment (FM 3‑21.20)

FD/SC                                                                  failure definitions/scoring criteria

FDC                                           fire direction center (FM 1‑02, FM 7‑1)

FDCCP                                       Fire Direction Center Certification Program

FDL                                                                        Fast Deployment Logistic (Ship)

FDM                                                                       frequency division multiplex

FDO                                           flexible deterrent option; fire direction officer (FM 1‑02)

FDP                                                                        foreign duty pay; funded delivery period

FDRF                                                                     financial data records folder

FDRP                                         first destination reporting point (FM 1‑02)

FDS                                                                       finance disbursing section

FDTE                                                                     force development testing and experimentation

FE                                                                           field expedient (ARTEP 7‑91-MTP); fire for effect (use "FFE" instead, FM 7‑92); Far East

fear                                                                       An unpleasant, often strong emotion, painful agitation or anxiety, and (usually) loss of courage caused by anticipation or awareness of danger; a sudden and intense awareness of immediate danger (MWOL'03)

feature                                      (NATO) In cartography, any object or configuration of ground or water represented on the face of the map or chart, FM 3‑25.26)

FEBA                                         forward edge of the battle area (FM 1‑02); (FM 7‑0, FM 7‑1)

FEC                                           forward error control (FM 3‑21.20). forward error correction (FM 3‑22.91)

FECC                                                                     fires and effects coordination cell

FED                                                                        forward entry device (FM 3‑90.1)

feedback                                    In information operations, information that reveals how the deception target is responding to the deception story and if the military deception plan is working, also deception target (FM 3‑13)

FEELER                                       [NATO] (EW) Shipborne fire control radar)

FEET WET/DRY                            Flying over water/land)

FEGLI                                                                    Federal Employees Group Life Insurance

FEHBP                                                                  Federal Employees Health Benefits Program

FEI                                                                         facilities engineering items

feint                                          (DOD) In military deception, an offensive action involving contact with the adversary conducted for the purpose of deceiving the adversary as to the location and/or time of the actual main offensive action (Army) A form of attack used to deceive the enemy as to the location or time of the actual decisive operation. Forces conducting a feint seek direct fire contact with the enemy but avoid decisive engagement (FM 3‑0; Marine Corps) A limited‑objective attack involving contact with the enemy, varying in size from a raid to a supporting attack. Feints are used to cause the enemy to react in three predictable ways: to employ reserves improperly, to shift supporting fires, or to reveal defensive fires, also attack; deception; demonstration; display; ruse. (See Table 7‑9 for symbol)

FEMA                                                                    Federal Emergency Management Agency

FENCE (IN/OUT)                           Set cockpit switches as appropriate before entering/exiting the combat area)

FEPA                                                                     Fair Employment Practices Act

FERRET                                      [NATO] (EW) Airborne electronic reconnaissance activity or aircraft)

FES                                           forced entry switch (FM 1‑02)

FEST                                         forward engineer support team (FM 1‑02)

FEZ                                           fighter engagement zone (FM 1‑02)

FFA                                           free‑fire area (FM 1‑02); French Forces in Germany (Forces Française’s en Allemagne)

FFAC                                                                     forward air controller

FFAR                                                                     (correct) folding fin aerial rocket (FM 3‑21.20);
(incorrect) free‑flight aerial rocket(s) (FM 3‑21.20)

FFCS                                                                     full‑function crew station (FM 3‑22.1)

FFE                                           field force engineering; fire for effect (FM 1‑02)

FFIR                                          friendly force information requirements (FM 1‑02)

FFL                                                                        friendly forward line (FM 7‑92, ARTEP 7‑93‑MTP)

FFT                                                                        for further transfer

FFU                                                                        forward friendly unit (ARTEP 7‑93‑MTP)

FFZ                                                                        free‑fire zone

FG                                                                          fiscal guidance

FGM                                                                       fiscal guidance memorandum

FH                                             field hospital (FM 1‑02); frequency hopping (FM 3‑90.6, STP 7‑11M14‑SM‑TG)

FH/M                                                                     frequency hopping/master (FM 11‑32)

FHA                                           foreign humanitarian assistance (FM 1‑02)

FHAI                                                                      Federal Housing Authority Insurance

FHD                                                                       Family Housing Division

FHMA                                                                    family housing management account

F‑hour                                       (DOD) The effective time of announcement by the Secretary of Defense to the Military Departments of a decision to mobilize Reserve units, also times, FM 5-0)

FHP                                           force health protection (FM 3‑21.20)

FHSG                                                                    family housing

FHT                                                                       field‑handling trainer (FM 3‑21.220, FM 3‑23.25)

FHWA                                                                   Federal Highway Administration

FI                                                                            fighter interceptor; foreign intelligence

FIA                                                                         financial inventory accounting

FIB                                                                         flight information bulletin; fleet intelligence broadcast

FIBUA                                        fighting in built‑up areas (FM 3‑21.10)

FIC                                                                         flight information center

FICA                                                                      Federal Insurance Contributions Act

FID                                            foreign internal defense (FM 1‑02)

FIDAF                                                                   foreign internal defense assistance force (FM 7‑98); foreign internal defense augmentation force (FM 7‑98)

field artillery survey                      The element of an artillery unit that determines an exact location and marks it as a point of reference for laying in the artillery unit (FM 6‑2)

field control                                (NATO) A series of points whose relative positions and elevations are known. These positions are used in basic data in mapping and charting. Normally these positions are established by survey methods, and are sometimes referred to as trig control or trigonometric net(work), also control point, FM 3‑34.331 (FM 1‑02)

field exercise                               (DOD, NATO) An exercise conducted in the field under simulated war conditions in which troops and armament of one side are actually present, while those of the other side may be imaginary or in outline, also command post exercise (FM 7‑0)

field force engineering                   The application of the engineer regiment's capabilities across the range of engineer battlespace functions (although primarily general engineering intensive) and in all phases of operations (offense, defense, stability, and support) through both reach and forward presence. Also called FFE (FM 3‑34)

field fortifications                         (DOD, NATO) An emplacement or shelter of a temporary nature which can be constructed with reasonable facility by units requiring no more than minor engineering supervisory and equipment participation, also battle position; emplacement; strong point (FM 5‑103)

field of fire                                  (DOD, NATO) The area which a weapon or a group of weapons may cover effectively with fire from a given position, also dead space; defilade fire; enfilade fire intelligence preparation of the battlefield (FM 3‑90)

field of view                                                     (Merriam‑Webster's [Online] Collegiate Dictionary, 1816.)

field services                               Essential services to enhance a soldier's quality of life during operations. They consist of clothing exchange, laundry and shower support, textile repair, mortuary affairs, preparation for aerial delivery, food services, billeting, and sanitation (FM 4‑0)

field trains                                  obsolete; use "Infantry battalion support area" Old definition: The combat service support portion of a unit at company, battalion, and brigade level that is positioned in the brigade support area with the forward support battalion and other support elements pushed forward from the division main support battalion, also combat trains; unit trains (FM 63‑2, FM 1‑02)

field trains command post              (if "field trains" is obsolete, does that make this term also obsolete? Email your reply.) At the battalion and squadron levels, the place from which the headquarters and headquarters company/headquarters and headquarters troop commander controls the field trains operations. Also called FTCP (FM 3‑21.20, FM 1‑02)

fieldcraft                                                            various field techniques and skills that the soldier must learn before employment in support of combat operations; that enable him to move, hide, observe, and detect targets; and that will affect his ability to survive on the battlefield (adapted from the definition posted at www.snipersparadise.com)

field manual                                (FM) A DA publication that contains doctrine and training principles with supporting tactics, techniques, and/or procedures and describes how the Army and its organizations function in terms of missions, organizations, personnel, and equipment. FMs implement ratified international standardization agreements. FMs may also contain informational or reference material relative to military operations and training and may be used to publish selected alliance doctrinal publications that are not readily integrated into other doctrinal literature (AR 25–30, 3/27/06). See also training circular

field manual–interim                      (FMI) A temporary DA publication that provides expedited delivery of urgently needed doctrine that the proponent has approved for use without placing it through the standard development process. An FMI may contain doctrine, tactics, techniques, or procedures. Information disseminated in a FMI will be incorporated into a new or revised FM or will expire 2 years from date of publication (AR 25–30, 3/27/06). See also training circular.

fig                                                                           figure (use abbreviations only in graphics)

fighter engagement zone               (DOD) In air defense, that airspace of defined dimensions within which the responsibility for engagement of air threats normally rests with fighter aircraft. Also called FEZ, also weapon engagement zone (FM 3‑52)

fighting patrol                              See combat patrol (FM 1‑02)

figure                                         Includes artwork, tables copied from other sources, and examples of completed tables or forms. Compare to table)

figure 8 slip knot                          knot used to form an adjustable bight in the middle of a rope

FIGURES                                     A procedure word meaning, "Numerals or numbers follow." (FM 24‑19)

FII                                                                          Federal item identification

FIIGS                                                                    Federal Item Identification Guide System

FIIGSC                                                                 Federal Item Identification Guides for Supply Cataloging

FIIN                                                                       Federal item identification number

file                                                                          a set of related records treated as a unit)

final coordination line                    (Army) A phase line close to the enemy position used to coordinate the lifting or shifting of supporting fires with the final deployment of maneuver elements (FM 3‑90; Marine Corps) A line used to coordinate the ceasing and shifting of supporting fires and the final deployment of the assault echelon in preparation for launching an assault against an enemy position. Also called FCL, also assault. (See Table 7‑10 for symbol)

final protective fire                       (DOD, NATO) An immediately available prearranged barrier of fire designed to impede enemy movement across defensive lines or areas. Also called FPF, also battle position; final protective line (FM 3‑90). (See Table 7‑12 for symbol)

final protective line                       A line of fire selected where an enemy assault is to be checked by interlocking fire from all available weapons and obstacles. [Note: the Marine Corps definition adds "A final protective line may be parallel with, or oblique to, the front of the position."]. Also called FPL, also dead space; field of fire; final protective fire; principal direction of fire (FM 6‑30; see Table 7‑9 for symbol)

FIR                                                                         financial inventory reports; flight information region

fire                                            (DOD, NATO) 1. The command given to discharge a weapon(s), FM 6‑50. 2. To detonate the main explosive charge by means of a firing system (FM 5‑250), also barrage fire; call for fire; counterfire; counterpreparation fire; covering fire; destruction fire; direct fire; grazing fire; harassing fire; indirect fire; neutralization fire; observed fire; preparation fire; registration fire; scheduled fire (FM 1‑02)

fire and movement                       (Army) The concept of applying fires from all sources to suppress, neutralize, or destroy the enemy, and the tactical movement of combat forces in relation to the enemy (as components of maneuver, applicable at all echelons) At the squad level, it entails a team placing suppressive fire on the enemy as another team moves against or around the enemy (FM 3‑90.6); Marine Corps) A technique primarily used in the assault wherein a unit or element advances by bounds or rushes, with subelements alternately moving and providing covering fire for other moving subelements. Fire and movement may be done by individuals (personnel or vehicles) or units (such as fire teams or squads) Usually, fire and movement is used only when under effective fire from the enemy because it is relatively slow and difficult to control, also bounding overwatch; formation; support by fire (FM 1‑02)

fire base                                     An area used during air assault operations from which a unit is moved via helicopters and supports the air assault operation's main effort with direct or indirect fires (FM 90‑4)

fire command                              A specific sequence of information given by a control authority that causes a crew to begin performing a sequence of actions and provides detailed direction to choose the ammunition type, aim the weapon, and engage the target. Each element given by the controller requires a response from a crewmember to ensure correct aiming and engagement. After the initial fire command, subsequent fire commands using the same sequence of information can be used to adjust the point of impact to ensure the desired target effect (FM 6‑50)

fire direction center                      (DOD, NATO) That element of a command post, consisting of gunnery and communication personnel and equipment, by means of which the commander exercises fire direction and/or fire control. The fire direction center receives target intelligence and requests for fire, and translates them into appropriate fire direction. The fire direction center provides timely and effective tactical and technical fire control in support of current operations. [Note: the NATO definition replaces the last sentence with "The fire direction center receives target intelligence and requests for fire and translates them into appropriate fire direction."] Also called FDC (FM 6‑40)

fire for effect                              (DOD) That volume of fires delivered on a target to achieve the desired effect (NATO) 1. Fire which is delivered after the mean point of impact or burst is within the desired distance of the target or adjusting/ranging point. 2. Term in a call for fire to indicate the adjustment/ranging is satisfactory and fire for effect is desired. Also called FFE, also call for fire; destroy; final protective fire; fire mission; neutralize; suppression (FM 6‑30)

fire mission                                 (DOD, NATO) 1. Specific assignment given to a fire unit as part of a definite plan. 2. Order used to alert the weapon/battery area and indicate that the message following is a call for fire, also call for fire; cease loading; fire support element (FM 6‑30)

fire plan                                     (DOD, NATO) A tactical plan for using the weapons of a unit or formation so that their fire will be coordinated, also air defense; final protective fire; fire support; offensive operations (FM 6‑20‑10)

fire strike                                    The massed, synchronized, and nearly simultaneous delivery of precision‑guided munitions (FM 3‑90)

fire superiority                             The degree of dominance in the fires of one force over another that permits that force to conduct maneuver at a given time and place without prohibitive interference by the enemy (FM 3‑90)

fire support                                 (DOD) Fires that directly support land, maritime, amphibious, and special operations forces to engage enemy forces, combat formations, and facilities in pursuit of tactical and operational objectives (FM 3‑0); In Marine Corps usage, assistance to elements of the Marine air‑ground task force engaged with the enemy rendered by other firing units, including (but not limited to) artillery, mortars, naval surface fire support, and offensive air support, also combined arms; fire support plan (FM 1‑02)

fire support area                          (DOD) An appropriate maneuver area assigned to fire support ships by the naval force commander from which they can deliver gunfire support to an amphibious operation. Also called FSA, also amphibious operation; fire support; fire support station; naval gunfire support (FM 6‑20‑30). (See Table 7‑12 for symbol)

fire support battlefield operating system    (Army) Encompasses the collective and coordinated use of target‑acquisition data, indirect fire weapons, fixed‑wing aircraft, offensive information operations, and other lethal and nonlethal means against targets located throughout an area of operations, also battlefield operating systems (FM 7‑15)

fire support coordinating measure    (DOD) A measure employed by land or amphibious commanders to facilitate the rapid engagement of targets and simultaneously provide safeguards for friendly forces, also fire support coordination (FM 6‑20‑10)

fire support coordination                (DOD, NATO) The planning and executing of fire so that targets are adequately covered by a suitable weapon or group of weapons, also fire support coordinating measure (FM 6‑20‑10)

fire support coordination line          (DOD) A fire support coordinating measure that is established and adjusted by appropriate land or amphibious force commanders within their boundaries in consultation with superior, subordinate, supporting, and affected commanders. Fire support coordination lines (FSCLs) facilitate the expeditious attack of surface targets of opportunity beyond the coordinating measure. An FSCL does not divide the area of operations by defining a boundary between close and deep operations or a zone for close air support. The FSCL applies to all fires of air, land, and sea‑based weapons systems using any type of ammunition. Forces attacking targets beyond an FSCL must inform all affected commanders in sufficient time to allow necessary reaction to avoid fratricide. Supporting elements attacking targets beyond the FSCL must ensure that the attack will not produce adverse effects on, or to the rear of, the line. Short of an FSCL, all air‑to‑ground and surface‑to‑surface attack operations are controlled by the appropriate land or amphibious force commander. The FSCL should follow well‑defined terrain features. Coordination of attacks beyond the FSCL is especially critical to commanders of air, land, and special operations forces. In exceptional circumstances, the inability to conduct this coordination will not preclude the attack of targets beyond the FSCL. However, failure to do so may increase the risk of fratricide and could waste limited resources (NATO) Within an assigned area of operations, a line established by a land or amphibious force commander to denote coordination requirements for fires by other force elements which may affect the commander's current and planned operations. The fire support coordination line applies to fires of air, ground or sea weapons using any type of ammunition against surface or ground targets. The establishment of the fire support coordination line must be coordinated with the appropriate commanders and supporting elements. Attacks against surface or ground targets short of the fire support coordination line must be conducted under the positive control or procedural clearance of the associated land or amphibious force commander. Unless in exceptional circumstances, commanders of forces attacking targets beyond the fire support coordination line must coordinate with all affected commanders in order to avoid fratricide and to harmonize joint objectives. Note: in the context of this definition, the term "surface targets" applies to those in littoral or inland waters within the designated area of operations. Also called FSCL, also boundary; coordinated fire line; fires; fire support; fire support coordinating measure (FM 6‑20‑10; see Table 7‑12 for symbol)

fire support coordinator                 (Marine Corps) The officer in charge of the fire support coordination center. He is the direct representative of the landing force commander for the planning and coordination of all available fire support. Also called FSC (FM 1‑02)

fire support element                     (DOD) That portion of the force tactical operations center at every echelon above company or troop (to corps) that is responsible for targeting coordination and for integrating fires delivered on surface targets by fire support means under the control, or in support, of the force. Also called FSE, also fire; fire support; support (FM 6‑40)

fire support officer                       (DOD) Senior field artillery officer assigned to Army maneuver battalions and brigades. Advises commander on fire support matters, also fire support (FM 6‑20)

fire support plan                          A plan on how indirect fires and target acquisition will be used to support an operation. It should include a portion for each means of fire support involved, also counterfire; fire support; fire support coordination; list of targets; operation order (FM 6‑20‑10)

fire support station                       (DOD) An exact location at sea within a fire support area from which a fire support ship delivers fire. Also called FSS, also fire support area; naval gunfire support (FM 6‑20‑30, see Table 7‑12 for symbol)

fire support targets                      Geographical points or objects that are aiming points for fire support systems. There are point targets, rectangular targets, and linear targets (FM 3‑90)

fire support team                         (DOD) An Army team provided by the field artillery component to each maneuver company and troop to plan and coordinate all indirect fire means available to the unit, including mortars, field artillery, close air support, and naval gunfire. Also called FIST, also air support; fire; fire support; fire support element (FM 6‑20‑20)

Firebee                                                                BQM‑34 subscale aerial target

firefight                                                               (noun, MW10)

firepower                                    (DOD, NATO) 1. The amount of fire which may be delivered by a position, unit, or weapon system. 2. Ability to deliver fire, also combat power; fire plan; mission, enemy, terrain, troops, time available, and civil considerations (FM 3‑0)

fires                                          (DOD) The effects of lethal or nonlethal weapons (FM 6‑20)

firing circuit                                (DOD) 1. In land operations, an electrical circuit and/or pyrotechnic loop designed to detonate connected charges from a firing point (FM 5‑250). 2. In naval mine warfare, that part of a mine circuit which either completes the detonator circuit or operates a ship counter (FM 1‑02)

first destination reporting point       A point manned by a movement regulating team, a movement control team, or military police that diverts a driver and cargo to an alternate consignee or destination. Also called FDRP (FM 4‑01.30)

firsthand                                                             (adj, Merriam‑Webster's [Online] Collegiate Dictionary, 1748. Obtained by, coming from, or being direct personal observation or experience <a firsthand account of the war>)

firsthand                                                             (adv, Merriam‑Webster's [Online] Collegiate Dictionary)

FIS                                                                         flight information service

FISINT                                       foreign instrumentation signals intelligence (FM 1‑02)

FIST                                          fire support team (FM 1‑02, FM 7‑1); fault isolation by semi‑automated techniques

FISTV                                                                   fire‑support team vehicle; Not FIST‑V

FIU                                                                         forward interpretation unit

fix                                             (DOD, NATO) A position determined from terrestrial, electronic, or astronomical data (Army) 1. A tactical mission task where a commander prevents the enemy from moving any part of his force from a specific location for a specific period of time. 2. An engineer obstacle effect that focuses fire planning and obstacle effort to slow an attacker's movement within a specified area, normally an engagement area, also block; contain; disrupt; support by fire; turn; way point (FM 3‑90; see Table 7‑14 and Table A‑1 for symbol)

fixed oil                                                               nonvolatile (fatty) oil

FKSM                                                                    Fort Knox Supplemental Material (FM 3‑90.1)

fl                                                                             flight (FM 90‑26 (use abbreviations only in graphics)

FL                                                                           forward looking (FM 3‑22.1)

FLA                                                                        flight article; frontline ambulance, Webster’s Tenth

FLAM                                                                    fault location and monitoring

flank                                          The right or left limit of a unit (FM 3‑90)

FLANK (direction)                         CONTACT aspect stabilized at 120‑ to 150‑degree angle from tail or 30‑ to 60‑degree angle from nose of aspect)

flank guard                                 (DOD, NATO) A security element operating to the flank of a moving or stationary force to protect it from enemy ground observation, direct fire, and surprise attack, also screen; security operation (FM 3‑90)

FLAR                                                                     fault location and repair

FLARE(S)                                    Directive to deploy flares)

flash                                          A procedure word meaning, "Precedence, FLASH." Reserved for initial enemy contact reports on special emergency operational combat traffic originated by specifically designated high commanders of units directly affected. This traffic is to be SHORT reports of emergency situations of vital proportions. Handling is as fast as humanely possible with an objective time of 10 minutes or less, also procedure word (FM 24‑19)

FLASH (system)                           Temporarily activate specified system for identification purposes (IFF/afterburner/flare/chaff/etc.)

flash blindness                             (DOD, NATO) Impairment of vision resulting from an intense flash of light. It includes temporary or permanent loss of visual functions and may be associated with retinal burns, also dazzle (FM 100‑30)

FLASHLIGHT**                            Directive term for helicopter to turn on IR floodlight (pointed at ground to aid visual acquisition by escort aircraft)

FLASHWESS                                flash weapon effect signature simulator (ARTEP 7‑20‑MTP, ARTEP 71‑2‑MTP)

flattop                                                                 (noun, MW10)

FLAVOR                                      Visually identified nationality of a contact)

FLB                                           forward logistics base (FM 1‑02)

fld                                             field (FM 1‑02)

FLDCOMDNA                                                     Field Command, Defense Nuclear Agency

FLDMS                                                                 field maintenance shop

FLE                                           forward logistics element (FM 1‑02)

FLEX                                                                     Flexowriter equipment

FLIC                                                                      fault location indicating console

flight coordination center               A primary Army air traffic control agency that is subordinate to the flight operations center (FOC) It provides flight following as well as information on air traffic movement within its assigned area; monitors Army aircraft operations and provides hostile activity warnings to Army aviation units operating in the airspace; passes instrument flight rules flight plans to the airspace management center for approval and visual flight rules flight plans to the appropriate air traffic services facility; establishes liaison with the air defense command post; and provides a communications link between terminal facilities of existing airfields, other nearby airfields, division command posts, other flight coordination centers, and the FOC when the flight coordination center locates in a division area. Also called FCC (FM 3‑04.111)

flight corridor                              See air corridor (FM 1‑02)

flight following                             (DOD, NATO) The task of maintaining contact with specified aircraft for the purpose of determining en route progress and/or flight termination, also air control point; air corridor; communications checkpoint (FM 3‑04.111)

flight liaison officer                       A member of the tactical air control party. He is responsible to the corps air liaison officer and provides specific knowledge and expertise on the employment of fighter attack aircraft. Also called FLO (FM 3‑04.111)

flight operations center                 The element of the tactical Army air traffic regulation system which provides for aircraft flight following, separation of aircraft under instrument conditions, and identification of friendly aircraft to friendly air defense agencies. Also called FOC (FM 3‑04.111)

FLIP                                                                       flight information publication

FLIR                                                                       forward‑looking infrared radar (FM 3‑90.6, FM 3‑22.1); forward‑looking infrared, Shortened; use complete term as in FM 3‑06.11

FLO                                           fighter liaison officer (FM 1‑02); foreign liaison office

float                                          Logistics support that provides major assembly replacement for a piece of equipment which is repairable but will take an extraordinary amount of time to repair (FM 4‑30.3)

FLOAT                                       Directive/informative call to expand the formation laterally within visual limits to maintain radar contact or prepare for a defensive response)

floodplain                                                           (noun, Merriam‑Webster's [Online] Collegiate Dictionary, 1873. 1. Level land that may be submerged by floodwaters. 2. A plain built up by stream deposition.)

floor plate                                                          (noun, Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged)

FLOT                                         forward line of own troops (FM 1‑02)

FLOW (direction)**                      Directive call to fly stated heading)

FLP                                                                        fault‑location panel

FLS                                                                        fault‑locator system; field landing site (FM 90‑26)

FLSA                                                                     Fair Labor Standards Act

FLSC                                                                     flexible linear‑shaped charge (FM 3‑06.11)

flt                                                                           flight (use abbreviations only in graphics)

FLTSURBAD                                                       Flight Surgeon Badge

fluorescent orange                                       [not found; see “international orange”]

FLV                                                                        foreign leave

flyby                                                                     (noun, Merriam‑Webster's [Online] Collegiate Dictionary, A prearranged, usually low‑altitude flight by one or more airplanes over a public gathering [as an air show].)

flyover                                                                 (noun, Merriam‑Webster's [Online] Collegiate Dictionary, 1931. 1, "flyby." 2, "overpass.")

FM                                            field manual; frequency modulated (adj) or frequency modulation (noun, FM 1‑02)

FMC                                          full mission‑capable (FM 1‑02); field medical card; field maintenance company (FM 3‑21.20)

FMCC                                                                    firemaker control center (ARTEP 7‑20‑MTP, ARTEP 71‑2‑MTP)

FMF                                           Fleet Marine Force (FM 1‑02)

FMO                                                                      forms management officer

FMP                                                                       financial management plan

FMPEC                                                                 Financial Management Plan for Emergency Conditions

FMPP                                                                    Federal Merit Promotion Program

FMR                                                                       financial management report; frequency modulated radar

FMS                                                                       foreign military sales

FMSC                                                                    Federal Manual for Supply Cataloging

FMSO                                                                   foreign military sales order

FMSP                                                                    foreign military sales program

FMT                                                                       force modernization training

FMTS                                                                    field maintenance test station

FO                                            forward observer (FM 1‑02); field order; finance officer

FOA                                                                       field operating agency

FOB                                           forward operating base; forward operations/operational base (FM 1‑02)

FOBS                                                                    fractional orbital bombardment system

foc                                                                         focus (User Defined/Submitted

FOC                                           flight operations center (FM 1‑02); final operational capability (compare to IOC, initial operational capability)

FOD                                                                       field officer of the day; foreign object damage

FOF                                                                       force‑on‑force (FM 3‑23.30)

FofF                                                                      field of fire

FOIA                                                                     Freedom of Information Act

fol                                                                           follow; followed; following (use abbreviations only in graphics)

follow and assume                        (Army) A tactical mission task in which a second committed force follows a force conducting an offensive operation and is prepared to continue the mission if the lead force is fixed, attrited, or unable to continue, also attack; offensive operations (FM 3‑90; see Table A‑1 for symbol)

follow and support                        A tactical mission task in which a committed force follows and supports a lead force conducting an offensive operation, also direct pressure force; encircling force; exploitation; pursuit (FM 3‑90; see Table A‑1 for symbol)

follow through                                                 (vi, MW10)

follow up                                                            (vt, MW10)

follow‑on                                                            (noun, adj)

follow‑on echelon                         (NATO) In amphibious operations, that echelon of the assault troops, vehicles, aircraft equipment, and supplies which, though not needed to initiate the assault, is required to support and sustain the assault (Army) Those additional forces moved into the objective area after the assault echelon (FM 3‑90) See also air assault operation; assault echelon (FM 1‑02)

follow‑on forces                           All enemy ground forces not committed during their offensive operations to the contact battle, their command and control installations, and their logistic and other support provided for sustained operations (FM 3‑90)

follow‑through                                                (noun, MW10)

follow‑up                                                            (noun, adj, MW10)

FOMCAT                                                             foreign materiel catalog

FON                                                                       Fiber Optic Network

FOO                                          field ordering officer (FM 3‑21.20)

foot march                                  See dismounted march (FM 1‑02)

foothold                                                              (noun, MW9)

footpath                                                             (noun, MW9)

footprint                                     (DOD) 1. The area on the surface of the earth within a satellite's transmitter or sensor field of view. 2. The amount of personnel, spares, resources, and capabilities present and occupying space at a deployed location (FM 1‑02)

force health protection                 (DOD) All services performed, provided, or arranged by the Services to promote, improve, conserve, or restore the mental or physical well being of personnel. These services include, but are not limited to, the management of health service resources, such as manpower, monies, and facilities; preventive and curative health measures; medical evacuation of the wounded, injured or sick; selection of the medically fit and disposition of the medically unfit; blood management; medical supply, equipment, and maintenance thereof; combat stress control; and medical, dental, veterinary, laboratory, optometry, medical food, and medical intelligence services (FM 3‑100.4)

force projection                           (DOD) The ability to project the military element of national power from the continental United States (CONUS) or another theater in response to requirements for military operations. Force projection operations extend from mobilization and deployment of forces to redeployment to CONUS or home theater (FM 3‑0)

force projection bases                               Army forces may deploy from Top station directly to the AO or may move to the AO through force projection bases. Intermediate staging bases and power projection platforms are force projection bases. Force projection bases influence operations in a fashion similar to Top stations. Sometimes one part of the deploying force will be at the force projection base while another operates in the AO. The deployed force may receive combat support (CS) and CSS from the force projection base for some or all of the operation (FM 3‑0, 2001) See also battlespace)

force protection                           (DOD) Actions taken to prevent or mitigate hostile actions against Department of Defense personnel (to include family members), resources, facilities, and critical information. These actions conserve the force's fighting potential so it can be applied at a decisive time and place and incorporates the coordinated and synchronized offensive and defensive measures to enable the effective employment of the joint force while degrading opportunities for the enemy. Force protection does not include actions to defeat the enemy or protect against accidents, weather, or disease. Also called FP, also protection (FM 3‑0)

force protection condition              (DOD) A Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff‑approved program standardizing the Military Services' identification of and recommended responses to terrorist threats against US personnel and facilities. This program facilitates inter‑Service coordination and support for antiterrorism activities. Also called FPCON. There are four FPCONs above normal. a. FPCON ALPHA—This condition applies when there is a general threat of possible terrorist activity against personnel and facilities, the nature and extent of which are unpredictable, and circumstances do not justify full implementation of FPCON BRAVO measures. However, it may be necessary to implement certain measures from higher FPCONs resulting from intelligence received or as a deterrent. The measures in this FPCON must be capable of being maintained indefinitely. b. FPCON BRAVO—This condition applies when an increased and more predictable threat of terrorist activity exists. The measures in this FPCON must be capable of being maintained for weeks without causing undue hardship, affecting operational capability, and aggravating relations with local authorities. c. FPCON CHARLIE—This condition applies when an incident occurs or intelligence is received indicating some form of terrorist action against personnel and facilities is imminent. Implementation of measures in this FPCON for more than a short period probably will create hardship and affect the peacetime activities of the unit and its personnel. d. FPCON DELTA—This condition applies in the immediate area where a terrorist attack has occurred or when intelligence has been received that terrorist action against a specific location or person is likely. Normally, this FPCON is declared as a localized condition, also force protection; terrorism (FM 1‑02)

force tailoring                              The process of determining the right mix and sequence of units for a mission (FM 3‑0)

force tracking                              (DOD) The identification of units and their specific modes of transport during movement to an objective area (FM 3‑0)

ford                                           A shallow part of a body of water or wet gap that can be crossed without bridging, boats, ferries, or rafts. It is a location in a water barrier where the physical characteristics of current, bottom, and approaches permit the passage of personnel, vehicles, and other equipment where the wheels or tracks remain in contact with the bottom at all times, also gap; reconnaissance; river crossing (FM 90‑13; see Table 7‑14 for symbol)

fore                                                                       front (FM 3‑21.38)

fore‑end                                                             (noun, Third New International Dictionary, Unabridged)

forego                                                                  (vt, MW9)

foreign humanitarian assistance      (DOD) Programs conducted to relieve or reduce the results of natural or manmade disasters or other endemic conditions such as human pain, disease, hunger, or privation that might present a serious threat to life or that can result in great damage to or loss of property. Foreign humanitarian assistance (FHA) provided by US forces is limited in scope and duration. The foreign assistance provided is designed to supplement or complement the efforts of the host nation civil authorities or agencies that may have primary responsibility for providing FHA. FHA operations are those conducted outside the United States, its territories, and possessions. Also called FHA (FM 3‑0)

foreign instrumentation signals intelligence (DOD) Technical information and intelligence derived from the intercept of foreign electromagnetic emissions associated with the testing and operational deployment of non‑US aerospace, surface, and subsurface systems. Foreign instrumentation signals intelligence is a subcategory of signals intelligence. Foreign instrumentation signals include but are not limited to telemetry, beaconry, electronic interrogators, and video data links. Also called FISINT, also signals intelligence (FM 34‑2)

foreign internal defense                 (DOD) Participation by civilian and military agencies of a government in any of the action programs taken by another government to free and protect its society from subversion, lawlessness, and insurgency. Also called FID, FM 3‑07)

FOREWAS                                                          Force and Weapon Analysis System

forklift                                                                  (noun, MW9)

form number                                                     a number assigned to each official form to uniquely identify each form)

formation                                    (DOD, NATO) 1. An ordered arrangement of troops and/or vehicles for a specific purpose. 2. An ordered arrangement of two or more ships, units, or aircraft proceeding together under a commander, FM 3‑04.111)

forms of maneuver                       Distinct tactical combinations of fire and movement with a unique set of doctrinal characteristics that differ primarily in the relationship between the maneuvering force and the enemy. The choices of offensive maneuver are envelopment, turning movement, infiltration, penetration, and frontal attack. The choices of defensive maneuver are forward and in‑depth. Commanders use these to orient on the enemy, not terrain. More than one may be applied during an operation and may be used in conjunction with a form of tactical operations, also attack; envelopment; frontal attack; infiltration; penetration; turning movement (FM 3‑0)

forms of uncertainty                     In military deception, means of shaping the deception target's perception. Increasing uncertainty aims to confuse the deception target. Reducing uncertainty aims to reinforce the deception target's predisposition, also deception target (FM 3‑13)

FORSCOM                                                          (United States Army) Forces Command

FORSTAT                                                           forces status report

FORTL                                                                  force requirement troop list reporting system

FORTRAN                                                            Formula Translation (a scientific programming language for computers)

forward area air defense engagement zone An area of forward area air defense (FAAD) deployment that may fall within a missile engagement zone. It is also possible that some areas may be solely defended by FAAD assets. A forward area air defense engagement zone can be established to define the airspace within which these assets will operate. Because centralized control over short‑range air defense weapons may not be possible, these areas must be clearly defined and promulgated so that friendly aircraft can avoid them. Also called FAADEZ (FM 44‑100; see Table 7‑8 for symbol)

forward arming and refueling point   (DOD) A temporary facility—organized, equipped, and deployed by an aviation commander, and normally located in the main battle area closer to the area where operations are being conducted than the aviation unit's combat service support area—to provide fuel and ammunition necessary for the employment of aviation maneuver units in combat. The forward arming and refueling point permits combat aircraft to rapidly refuel and rearm simultaneously. Also called FARP (FM 3‑04.111; see Table 7‑17 for symbol)

forward assembly area                  A temporary area where aviation units gather to prepare for a mission that is forward of the aviation brigade's assembly area and airfield, but not as far forward as the attack position. Aircraft may be in the forward assembly area for short or long duration based on METT‑TC. [Note: the Marine Corps uses METT‑T.] Also called FAA (FM 3‑04.111)

forward edge of the battle area      (DOD, NATO) The foremost limits of a series of areas in which ground combat units are deployed, excluding the areas in which the covering or screening forces are operating, designated to coordinate fire support, the positioning of forces, or the maneuver of units. Also called FEBA, also main battle area (FM 3‑90). (See Table 7‑9 for symbol)

forward line of own troops             (DOD) A line which indicates the most forward positions of friendly forces in any kind of military operation at a specific time. The forward line of own troops (FLOT) normally identifies the forward location of covering and screening forces. The FLOT may be at, beyond, or short of the forward edge of the battle area. An enemy FLOT indicates the forward‑most position of hostile forces. Also called FLOT (FM 3‑90; see Table 7‑7 for symbol)

forward logistics base                   The area occupied by multifunctional forward logistics elements of a support battalion, group, or command when it echelons its assets to provide critical support to combat forces. The base may be the first stage of the development of the support area. Also called FLB (FM 4‑0)

forward logistics element               A multifunctional logistics element task‑organized to support fast‑moving offensive operations, early phases of contingency operations, and units geographically separated from normal support channels. The forward logistics element operates out of a forward logistics base. Also called FLE (FM 4‑0)

forward observer                          (DOD) An observer operating with front line troops and trained to adjust ground or naval gunfire and pass back battlefield information. In the absence of a forward air controller, the observer may control close air support strikes. Also called FO (FM 6‑30)

forward operations base                (DOD) In special operations, a base usually located in friendly territory or afloat that is established to extend command and control or communications or to provide support for training and tactical operations. Facilities may be established for temporary or longer duration operations and may include an airfield or an unimproved airstrip, an anchorage, or a pier. A forward operations base may be the location of special operations component headquarters or a smaller unit that is controlled and/or supported by a main operations base. [Note: ARMY SOF term is "forward operational base."] See also advanced operations base; main operations base (FM 3‑05)

forward passage of lines                When a unit passes through another unit's positions while moving toward the enemy (FM 3‑90)

forward tell                                 (DOD, NATO) The transfer of information to a higher level of command, also track telling (FM 1‑02)

forwarder                                                           (25‑mm machine gun) an internal piece of the feeder (top half of the weapon) that pushes the rounds into position (FM 3‑22.1)

FOS                                           forward observer system (FM 3‑22.91)

FOSDIC                                                               film optical sensing device for input to computers

FOUO                                                                    for official use only

FOV                                                                       field of view (ARTEP 7‑91‑Drill, FM 7‑92, FM 3‑22.31)

FOX (number)                              Simulated/actual launch of A/A weapons. ONE—Semiactive radar‑guided missile. TWO—infrared‑guided missile. THREE—active radar‑guided missile)

FOX MIKE                                   VHF/FM radio)

FOX THREE (X) SHIP**                 Valid missile shot against (x) separate targets (assumes 1 missile per target)

FP                                             force protection (FM 1‑02)

FPA                                                                        force planning analysis; funding program advice

FPC                                                                        Federal Power Commission

FPCA                                                                     Federal Post Card Application

FPCON                                       force protection condition (FM 1‑02)

FPF                                           final protective fire (not "protection," FM 1‑02)

FPG                                                                        force planning guide

FPJMC                                                                  Four Power Joint Military Commission

FPL                                           final protective line (FM 1‑02)

FPLIF                                                                    field pack, large, internal frame (FM 3‑21.220)

FPM                                                                       Federal Personnel Manual

FPMR                                                                    Federal Property Management Regulation

FPO                                                                       Fleet Post Office

FPOL                                         forward passage of lines (FM 1‑02)

F‑POLE                                      distance between shooter and target at impact (FM 1‑02)

FPP                                                                        final protective posture; firepower potential; feet per second (FM 3‑23.25, FM 3‑22.27, FM 3‑22.31); frames per second, (TRADOC Pamphlet 350‑70‑2)

FPU                                                                        first production unit

FPW                                                                      firing port weapon (ARTEP 7‑7J‑DRILL, FM 3‑22.1, FM 3‑21.71, FM 3‑22.1, FM 7‑1)

FR                                                                           fire request (FM 3‑22.1)

FRA                                                                        Federal Railroad Administration

frag                                                                       fragmentation (FM 3‑21.8); fragmentary (FM 90‑26, FM 3‑21.71)

fragmentary order                        (DOD) An abbreviated form of an operation order (verbal, written, or digital) usually issued on a day‑to‑day basis that eliminates the need for restating information contained in a basic operation order. It may be issued in sections. It is issued after an operation order to change or modify that order or to execute a branch or sequel to that order. Also called FRAG order/FRAGO (FM 5-0)

FRAGO, FRAG order                       fragmentary order (FM 1‑02)

FRAT                                                                     free radical assay technique

fratricide                                    The unintentional killing or wounding of friendly personnel by friendly firepower (FM 3‑0)

FRC                                                                        Federal Records Center GSA

FRD                                                                        formerly restricted data

FRE                                                                        field representative Europe

free fire area                               (DOD) A specific area into which any weapon system may fire without additional coordination with the establishing headquarters. Also called FFA, also fire; fire support coordination; rules of engagement (FM 3‑90). (See Table 7‑12 for symbol)

free‑fall                                                               (noun, or vi)

FREEZE BURN                              Directive call to AC‑130 to freeze the GLINT position in the present location)

freq                                                                       frequency; frequent

FRFE                                                                     Field Representative Far East

FRFOURRA                                                         French Fourragere

friendly                                      (DOD) A contact positively identified as friendly, also hostile (Army) A track or contact belonging to a declared friendly nation (FM 1‑02; see Table 4‑1 for symbol)

friendly                                      A positively identified friendly aircraft, *ship, or *ground position)

friendly fire                                 (DOD) In casualty reporting, a casualty circumstance applicable to persons killed in action or wounded in action mistakenly or accidentally by friendly forces actively engaged with the enemy, who are directing fire at a hostile force or what is thought to be a hostile force, also casualty; fratricide, FM 3‑0)

friendly force information requirements  (Army) Information the commander and staff need about the forces available for the operation (FM 6‑0; Marine Corps) Information the commander needs about friendly forces in order to develop plans and make effective decisions. Depending upon the circumstances, information on unit location, composition, readiness, personnel status, and logistics status could become a friendly force information requirement. Also called FFIR, also commander's critical information requirements (FM 1‑02)

FRIES                                                                   Fast‑Rope Insertion And Extraction System (FM 3‑05.60); Doctrine for Army Special Operations Aviation Forces); fast‑rope infiltration/exfiltration system (FM 7‑93)

FRL                                           former regime loyalist (TC 7-21)

FRN                                                                        force requirement number

FRNA                                                                     foreign rations not available

FROG                                                                    free rocket over ground

from                                          A procedure word meaning, "The originator of this message is indicated by the address designation immediately following." (FM 24‑19)

front                                          (DOD, NATO) 1. The lateral space occupied by an element measured from the extremity of one flank to the extremity of the other flank. 2. The direction of the enemy. 3. The line of contact of two opposing forces. 4. When a combat situation does not exist or is not assumed, the direction toward which the command is faced, also forward edge of the battle area; forward line of own troops (FM 3‑90)

front line                                                            (noun, MW10)

front loader                                                      (noun)

frontal attack                              (DOD, NATO) 1. An offensive maneuver in which the main action is directed against the front of the enemy forces. 2 (DOD only) In air intercept, an attack by an interceptor aircraft that terminates with a heading crossing angle greater than 135 degrees (FM 3‑04.111). (Army) A form of maneuver in which the attacking force seeks to destroy a weaker enemy force or fix a larger enemy force in place over a broad front (FM 3‑0) See also assault; form of maneuver; offensive operations (FM 1‑02)

frontline                                                              (adj, MW10)

FRS                                                                        field repair service, Jerry Duffell

FS                                             fire support (FM 1‑02); fuselage station (FM 3‑21.220); feasibility study; flight surgeon

FSA                                           fire support area; forward support area (NGFS, FM 1‑02); family separation allowance; foreign service availability; functional solution analysis

FSAO                                                                    family services and assistance officer

FSATS                                                                 Fire Support Automated Test Suite

FSB                                           forward support battalion (FM 1‑02); fire support base (ARTEP 7‑94-MTP); forward support base (FM 90‑26; final staging base (FM 3‑06.11)

FSC                                           fire support coordinator (FM 1‑02); forward support company (ARTEP 7‑30-MTP); fire support coordination (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑90.2); Federal supply classification; foreign service credits

FSCC                                         fire support coordination center (USMC, FM 1‑02)

FSCL                                         fire support coordination line (FM 1‑02)

FSCM                                         fire support coordinating measure (FM 1‑02); Federal Supply Code for Manufacturers; fire‑support coordination measures (FM 3‑90.6)

FSCOORD                                   fire support coordinator (FM 1‑02)

FSCP                                                                     Firing Site Command Post

FSD                                                                       fuel supply depot

FSE                                           fire support element (FM 1‑02); forward security element (enemy forces only, FM 3‑90.1)

FSED                                                                     full‑scale engineering development

FSEM                                         fire‑support execution matrix (FM 3‑21.10)

FSEP                                                                     full‑spectrum effects platform

FSG                                           family support group (FM 3‑21.20)

FSMC                                                                    forward support medical company (FM 90‑26)

FSMT                                         forward support MEDEVAC team (FM 3‑21.20)

FSN                                                                       Federal Stock Number; fiscal station number; French‑speaking nation

FSNCO                                                                 fire‑support noncommissioned officer (FM 3‑90.6)

FSO                                           fire support officer (FM 1‑02); fuel supply office

FSOP                                                                    field standing operating procedures (FM 7‑1)

FSP                                                                        facility security profile; forward supply point (ARTEP 7‑30‑MTP)

FSR                                                                        foreign separate rations; frequency scan radar

FSS                                                                       fire support station (NGFS, FM 1‑02); fire‑support section (FM 3‑21.20, FM 3‑22.90, FM 3‑90.2, ARTEP 7‑30‑MTP, ARTEP 71‑2-MTP); Federal supply schedule; Frequency Surveillance System

FSSD                                                                    foreign service selection date

FSSE                                                                     forward service support element

FSSG                                         force service support group (USMC, FM 1‑02)

FSSO                                                                    fire‑support station operator (FM 3‑22.1)

FSSP                                                                     fuel system supply point (ARTEP 7‑94‑MTP)

FST                                           field sanitation team; field support team; forward surgical team (FM 1‑02); foreign service tour

FSTC                                                                    United States Army Foreign Science and Technology Center

FSV                                                                       fire‑support vehicle (FM 3‑90.2)

ft                                                                            feet (use abbreviations only in graphics)

Ft                                                                           Fort (use abbreviations only in graphics)

FT                                                                          firing table; full‑tracked

FTC                                                                       fast time constant

FTCP                                         field trains command post (FM 1‑02)

FTD                                                                       freight traffic division

FTI                                                                         fixed target information

FTIG                                                                      Fort Indiantown Gap

FTP                                                                        file transfer protocol: A standard for moving files from one computer to another. Predominant use is on the Internet when uploading files to a server or downloading files to a computer, (TRADOC Pam 350‑70‑2)

FTRAC                                                                  full‑tracked vehicle

FTS                                                                       field training services; Federal Telecommunications System

FTT                                           field tactical trainer

FTTD                                                                    full‑time training duty

FTU                                                                       first training unit

FTX                                                                       field training exercise (FM 7‑0, FM 7‑1)

FU                                                                          fire unit

FUA                                                                       fire unit analyzer

FUEL STATE (time)**                   (AIR‑MAR) A helicopter's fuel quantity, expressed in hours and minutes, before having to make a controlled emergency landing)

FUIF                                                                      fire unit integration facility

full command                               (NATO) The military authority and responsibility of a commander to issue orders to subordinates. It covers every aspect of military operations and administration and exists only within national services. [Note: the term "command" as used internationally implies a lesser degree of authority than when it is used in a purely national sense. No NATO or coalition commander has full command over the forces assigned to him since, in assigning forces to NATO, nations will delegate only operational command or operational control.] See also administrative control; operational command; operational control (FM 6‑0)

full mission‑capable                      (DOD) Material condition of any piece of military equipment, aircraft, or training device indicating that it can perform all missions. Also called FMC, also deadline (FM 4‑30.3)

full mobilization                            (DOD) Expansion of the active Armed Forces resulting from action by Congress and the President to mobilize all Reserve component units in the existing approved force structure, all individual reservists, retired military personnel, and the resources needed for their support to meet the requirements of a war or other national emergency involving an external threat to the national security. Reserve personnel can be placed on active duty for the duration of the emergency plus six months, also mobilization (FM 100‑17)

full spectrum operations                The range of operations Army forces conduct in war and military operations other than war (FM 3‑0)

FUM                                                                       functional user's manual

functional component command      (DOD) A command normally, but not necessarily, composed of forces of two or more Military Departments which may be established across the range of military operations to perform particular operational missions that may be of short duration or may extend over a period of time, also command relationship; service component command (FM 100‑7)

FUPOSAT                                                           followup on supply action taken

FURBALL*                                   Descriptive/informative call indicating known nonfriendly aircraft and friendly aircraft are in close proximity to each other. Can be response to a DECLARE request (NOTE: NATO equivalent term is MIX‑UP. NATO definition of FURBALL is, "A turning fight involving multiple aircraft.")

fuse                                                                       (noun, from Italian "fuso spindle" and Latin "fusus," — Merriam‑Webster Unabridged online 2002) a continuous train of explosive enclosed in a flexible waterproof cord or cable for setting off a charge (as dynamite) by communication of either fire or detonation; a wick‑type detonating device that, when lit by a match or other means, sets off the bursting charge of a projectile, bomb, or torpedo

future force                                                      (replaces "objective force)

fuze                                                                       (NATO) A device which initiates an explosive train (FM 5‑250; (Merriam‑Webster online Unabridged 2002) a detonating device for setting off (as by percussion) the bursting charge of a projectile, bomb, or torpedo; a mechanical or electrical detonating device that sets off the bursting charge of a projectile, bomb, or torpedo (FM 3‑22.1)

FVS                                                                       fighting vehicle system

FW                                                                         fixed wing

FWAD                                                                   Fort Wingate Army Depot

FWCL                                                                    field wire command link

fwd                                           forward (FM 1‑02)

FWDBL                                                                 forward bomb line

FWF                                                                      former warring factions (FM 3‑90.1)

FWMAF                                                                Free World Military Assistance Forces

FWP                                                                      Federal Women's Program

FWPC                                                                   Federal Woman's Program Coordinator

FWPCA                                                                Federal Water Pollution Control Administration

FY                                                                          fiscal year; according to TR 25‑30, when used with a shortened word form, such as when expressing a fiscal year, use a space between them: "FY 05"

FYDP                                                                     Five‑Year Defense Program

FYI                                                                         for your information

FYIC                                                                      for your information and guidance

FYMP                                                                    Five‑Year Materiel Program

FYPB                                                                     Five‑Year Planning Base

FYPP                                                                     Five‑Year Procurement Program

FYTP                                                                     Five‑Year Test Program

fz                                              fuze (graphics only)