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Glossary of Military Terms
ultraviolet imagery
That imagery produced as a result of sensing ultraviolet
radiations reflected from a given target surface.
unaccounted for
An inclusive term (not a casualty status) applicable to
personnel whose person or remains are not recovered or otherwise
accounted for following hostile action. Commonly used when
referring to personnel who are killed in action and whose bodies
are not recovered. See also casualty; casualty category;
casualty status; casualty type.
unanticipated immediate targets
Those immediate targets that are unknown or not expected
to exist in an operational area. See also operational area;
target.
uncertain environment
See operational environment.
uncharged demolition target
A demolition target for which charges have been
calculated, prepared, and stored in a safe place, and for which
execution procedures have been established. See also demolition
target.
unclassified matter
Official matter which does not require the
application of security safeguards, but the disclosure of which
may be subject to control for other reasons. See also classified
matter.
unconventional assisted recovery
Evader recovery conducted by directed unconventional
warfare forces, dedicated extraction teams, and/or
unconventional assisted recovery mechanisms operated by
guerrilla groups or other clandestine organizations to seek out,
contact, authenticate, support, and return evaders to friendly
control. Also called UAR. See also assisted recovery;
authenticate; evader; recovery.
unconventional assisted recovery coordination center
A compartmented special operations forces (SOF) facility
suitably staffed by supervisory personnel and tactical planners
to coordinate, synchronize and de-conflict non-conventional
assisted recovery (NAR) operations on a 24-hour basis within the
geographical area assigned to the joint force commander. The
unconventional assisted recovery coordination center (UARCC) is
an integral part of the joint force commander's (JFC's)
comprehensive personnel recovery architecture and the functional
equivalent of a component rescue coordination center. When
directed by the JFC, through the joint force special operations
component commander, the special operations command Operations
Directorate establishes the UARCC (normally within the Joint
Operations Center (JOC)) to serve as the focal point for all NAR
operations. The UARCC interfaces and coordinates with the JOC,
joint search and rescue center, component rescue coordination
centers (RCCs) (including the SOF RCC) and the special
activities cell. Also called UARCC. See also joint operations
center; joint search and rescue center; special operations
forces; unconventional assisted recovery.
unconventional assisted recovery mechanism
That entity, group of entities, or organizations within
enemy-held or hostile areas that operates to receive, support,
move, and exfiltrate military personnel or selected individuals
to friendly control. Also called UARM. See also assisted
recovery; recovery; unconventional assisted recovery.
unconventional recovery operation
Evader recovery operations conducted by unconventional
forces. See also evader; recovery operations.
unconventional warfare
A broad spectrum of military and paramilitary operations,
normally of long duration, predominantly conducted through,
with, or by indigenous or surrogate forces who are organized,
trained, equipped, supported, and directed in varying degrees by
an external source. It includes, but is not limited to,
guerrilla warfare, subversion, sabotage, intelligence
activities, and unconventional assisted recovery. Also called
UW.
unconventional warfare forces
US forces having an existing unconventional warfare
capability.
undersea warfare
Operations conducted to establish battlespace dominance in
the underwater environment, which permits friendly forces to
accomplish the full range of potential missions and denies an
opposing force the effective use of underwater systems and
weapons. It includes offensive and defensive submarine,
antisubmarine, and mine warfare operations. Also called USW. See
also antisubmarine warfare; mine warfare.
understowed cargo
See flatted cargo.
underwater demolition
The destruction or neutralization of underwater
obstacles; this is normally accomplished by underwater
demolition teams.
underwater demolition team
A group of officers and enlisted specially trained and
equipped for making hydrographic reconnaissance of approaches to
prospective landing beaches; for effecting demolition of
obstacles and clearing mines in certain areas; locating,
improving, and marking of useable channels; channel and harbor
clearance; acquisition of pertinent data during pre-assault
operations, including military information; observing the
hinterland to gain information useful to the landing force; and
for performing miscellaneous underwater and surface tasks within
their capabilities. Also called UDT.
underway replenishment
See replenishment at sea.
underway replenishment force
A task force of fleet auxiliaries (consisting of
oilers, ammunition ships, stores issue ships, etc.) adequately
protected by escorts furnished by the responsible operational
commander. The function of this force is to provide underway
logistic support for naval forces. See also force.
underway replenishment group
A task group configured to provide logistic replenishment
of ships underway by transfer-at-sea methods.
unexpended weapons or ordnance
Airborne weapons that have not been subjected to attempts
to fire or drop and are presumed to be in normal operating
conditions and can be fired or jettisoned if necessary. See also
ordnance.
unexploded explosive ordnance
Explosive ordnance which has been primed, fused,
armed or otherwise prepared for action, and which has been
fired, dropped, launched, projected, or placed in such a manner
as to constitute a hazard to operations, installations,
personnel, or material and remains unexploded either by
malfunction or design or for any other cause. Also called UXO.
See also explosive ordnance.
unified action
A broad generic term that describes the wide scope of
actions (including the synchronization of activities with
governmental and nongovernmental agencies) taking place within
unified commands, subordinate unified commands, or joint task
forces under the overall direction of the commanders of those
commands. See also joint task force; subordinate unified
command; unified command.
Unified Action Armed Forces
A publication setting forth the policies, principles,
doctrines, and functions governing the activities and
performance of the Armed Forces of the United States when two or
more Military Departments or Service elements thereof are acting
together. Also called UNAAF.
unified combatant command
See unified command.
unified command
A command with a broad continuing mission under a single
commander and composed of significant assigned components of two
or more Military Departments that is established and so
designated by the President, through the Secretary of Defense
with the advice and assistance of the Chairman of the Joint
Chiefs of Staff. Also called unified combatant command. See also
combatant command; subordinate unified command.
Unified Command Plan
The document, approved by the President, that sets forth
basic guidance to all unified combatant commanders; establishes
their missions, responsibilities, and force structure;
delineates the general geographical area of responsibility for
geographic combatant commanders; and specifies functional
responsibilities for functional combatant commanders. Also
called UCP. See also combatant command; combatant commander.
uniformed services
The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and Public
Health Services. See also Military Department; Military Service.
unilateral arms control measure
An arms control course of action taken by a nation without
any compensating concession being required of other nations.
unintentional radiation exploitation
Exploitation for operational purposes of
noninformation-bearing elements of electromagnetic energy
unintentionally emanated by targets of interest.
unintentional radiation intelligence
Intelligence derived from the collection and analysis of
noninformation-bearing elements extracted from the
electromagnetic energy unintentionally emanated by foreign
devices, equipment, and systems, excluding those generated by
the detonation of nuclear weapons. Also called RINT. See also
intelligence
uni-Service command
A command comprised of forces of a single Service.
unit
1. Any military element whose structure is prescribed by
competent authority, such as a table of organization and
equipment; specifically, part of an organization. 2. An
organization title of a subdivision of a group in a task force.
3. A standard or basic quantity into which an item of supply is
divided, issued, or used. In this meaning, also called unit of
issue. 4. With regard to Reserve Components of the Armed Forces,
denotes a Selected Reserve unit organized, equipped, and trained
for mobilization to serve on active duty as a unit or to augment
or be augmented by another unit. Headquarters and support
functions without wartime missions are not considered units.
unit aircraft
Those aircraft provided an aircraft unit for the
performance of a flying mission. See also aircraft
unit combat readiness
See combat readiness.
unit commitment status
The degree of commitment of any unit designated and
categorized as a force allocated to NATO.
unit designation list
A list of actual units by unit identification code
designated to fulfill requirements of a force list.
United States
Includes the land area, internal waters, territorial sea,
and airspace of the United States, including the following: a.
US territories, possessions, and commonwealths; and b. Other
areas over which the US Government has complete jurisdiction and
control or has exclusive authority or defense responsibility.
United States Armed Forces
Used to denote collectively only the regular components of
the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. See
also Armed Forces of the United States.
United States Civil Authorities
Those elected and appointed public officials and employees
who constitute the governments of the 50 States, District of
Columbia, Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, US possessions and
territories, and political subdivisions thereof.
United States Civilian Internee Information Center
The national center of information in the United States
for enemy and US civilian internees.
United States controlled shipping
That shipping under US flag and selected ships under
foreign flag considered to be under "effective US control,"
i.e., that can reasonably be expected to be made available to
the United States in time of national emergency. See also
effective US controlled ships.
United States message text format
A program designed to enhance joint and combined combat
effectiveness through standardization of message formats, data
elements, and information exchange procedures. Standard message
formats with standard information content provides all tactical
commanders at the joint interface with a common playing field
and a common language. Also called USMTF.
United States Military Service-funded foreign training
Training that is provided to foreign nationals in United
States Military Service schools and installations under
authority other than the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961.
United States Naval Ship
A public vessel of the United States that is in the
custody of the Navy and is: a. Operated by the Military Sealift
Command and manned by a civil service crew; or b. Operated by a
commercial company under contract to the Military Sealift
Command and manned by a merchant marine crew. Also called USNS.
See also Military Sealift Command.
United States Prisoner of War Information Center
The national center of information in the United States
for enemy and US prisoners of war.
United States Signals Intelligence System
The unified organization of signals intelligence
activities under the direction of the Director, National
Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service. It consists of
the National Security Agency/Central Security Service, the
components of the Military Services authorized to conduct
signals intelligence, and such other entities (other than the
Federal Bureau of Investigation) authorized by the National
Security Council or the Secretary of Defense to conduct signals
intelligence activities. Also called USSS. See also
counterintelligence.
United States Transportation Command
The unified command with the mission to provide strategic
air, land, and sea transportation and common-user port
management for the Department of Defense across the range of
military operations. Also called USTRANSCOM. See also global
transportation network; single port manager; transportation
component command; unified command
unit identification code
A six-character, alphanumeric code that uniquely
identifies each Active, Reserve, and National Guard unit of the
Armed Forces. Also called UIC.
unitized load
A single item or a number of items packaged, packed, or
arranged in a specified manner and capable of being handled as a
unit. Unitization may be accomplished by placing the item or
items in a container or by banding them securely together. See
also palletized unit load.
unit line number
A seven-character alphanumeric code that describes a
unique increment of a unit deployment, i.e., advance party, main
body, equipment by sea and air, reception team, or trail party,
in a Joint Operation Planning and Execution System time-phased
force and deployment data. Also called ULN.
unit loading
The loading of troop units with their equipment and
supplies in the same vessels, aircraft, or land vehicles. See
also loading.
unit movement control center
A temporary organization activated by major subordinate
commands and subordinate units during deployment to control and
manage marshalling and movement. Also called UMCC. See also
deployment; marshaling; unit.
unit movement data
A unit equipment and/or supply listing containing
corresponding transportability data. Tailored unit movement data
has been modified to reflect a specific movement requirement.
Also called UMD.
unit of issue
In its special storage meaning, refers to the quantity of
an item; as each number, dozen, gallon, pair, pound, ream, set,
yard. Usually termed unit of issue to distinguish from "unit
price." See also unit.
unit personnel and tonnage table
A table included in the loading plan of a combat-loaded
ship as a recapitulation of totals of personnel and cargo by
type, listing cubic measurements and weight. Also called UP&TT.
unit price
The cost or price of an item of supply based on the unit
of issue.
unit readiness
See readiness.
unit-related equipment and supplies
All equipment and supplies that are assigned to a specific
unit or that are designated as accompanying supplies. The
logistic dimensions of these items are contained in the type
unit characteristics file standard.
unit reserves
Prescribed quantities of supplies carried by a unit as a
reserve to cover emergencies. See also reserve supplies.
unit training assembly
An authorized and scheduled period of unit inactive duty
training of a prescribed length of time.
unit type code
A Joint Chiefs of Staff developed and assigned code,
consisting of five characters that uniquely identify a
"typeunit."
Universal Joint Task List
A menu of capabilities (mission-derived tasks with
associated conditions and standards, i.e., the tools) that may
be selected by a joint force commander to accomplish the
assigned mission. Once identified as essential to mission
accomplishment, the tasks are reflected within the command joint
mission essential task list. Also called UJTL.
universal polar stereographic grid
A military grid prescribed for joint use in operations in
limited areas and used for operations requiring precise position
reporting. It covers areas between the 80 degree parallels and
the poles
Universal Postal Union
A worldwide postal organization to which the United States
and most other countries are members. The exchange of mail,
except parcel post, between the United States and other nations
is governed by the provisions of the Universal Postal Union
convention. Also called UPU.
Universal Time
A measure of time that conforms, within a close
approximation, to the mean diurnal rotation of the Earth and
serves as the basis of civil timekeeping. Universal Time (UT1)
is determined from observations of the stars, radio sources, and
also from ranging observations of the moon and artificial Earth
satellites. The scale determined directly from such observations
is designated Universal Time Observed (UTO); it is slightly
dependent on the place of observation. When UTO is corrected for
the shift in longitude of the observing station caused by polar
motion, the time scale UT1 is obtained. When an accuracy better
than one second is not required, Universal Time can be used to
mean Coordinated Universal Time. Also called ZULU time. Formerly
called Greenwich Mean Time.
universal transverse mercator grid
A grid coordinate system based on the transverse
mercator projection, applied to maps of the Earth's surface
extending to 84 degrees N and 80 degrees S latitudes. Also
called UTM grid.
unknown
1. A code meaning "information not available." 2. An
unidentified target. An aircraft or ship that has not been
determined to be hostile, friendly, or neutral using
identification friend or foe and other techniques, but that must
be tracked by air defense or naval engagement systems. 3. An
identity applied to an evaluated track that has not been
identified. See also assumed friend; friend; hostile; neutral;
suspect.
unlimited war
Not to be used. See general war.
unmanned aerial vehicle
A powered, aerial vehicle that does not carry a human
operator, uses aerodynamic forces to provide vehicle lift, can
fly autonomously or be piloted remotely, can be expendable or
recoverable, and can carry a lethal or nonlethal payload.
Ballistic or semiballistic vehicles, cruise missiles, and
artillery projectiles are not considered unmanned aerial
vehicles. Also called UAV.
unplanned immediate targets
Those immediate targets that are known to exist in an
operational area but are not detected, located, or selected for
action in sufficient time to be included in the normal targeting
process. See also immediate targets; operational area; target.
unpremeditated expansion of a war
Not to be used. See escalation.
unscheduled convoy phase
The period in the early days of war when convoys are
instituted on an ad hoc basis before the introduction of convoy
schedules in the regular convoy phase.
unstuffing
The removal of cargo from a container. Also called
stripping.
unwanted cargo
A cargo loaded in peacetime which is not required by
the consignee country in wartime.
unwarned exposed
The vulnerability of friendly forces to nuclear
weapon effects. In this condition, personnel are assumed to be
standing in the open at burst time, but have dropped to a prone
position by the time the blast wave arrives. They are expected
to have areas of bare skin exposed to direct thermal radiation,
and some personnel may suffer dazzle. See also warned exposed;
warned protected
urgent mining
In naval mine warfare, the laying of mines with
correct spacing but not in the ordered or planned positions. The
mines may be laid either inside or outside the allowed area in
such positions that they will hamper the movements of the enemy
more than those of our own forces.
urgent priority
A category of immediate mission request that is lower than
emergency priority but takes precedence over ordinary priority;
e.g., enemy artillery or mortar fire that is falling on friendly
troops and causing casualties or enemy troops or mechanized
units moving up in such force as to threaten a breakthrough. See
also immediate mission request; priority of immediate mission
requests.
US commercial assets
US commercial aircraft, spacecraft, flag shipping,
offshore, and land-based assets located landward of the outer
limit of the continental shelf of the United States, its
territories, and possessions, and excluding those privately
owned oil rigs operating under foreign license in disputed
offshore areas.
US Defense Representative
A senior US officer in a foreign country representing the
Secretary of Defense, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,
and the commander of the unified command that coordinates the
security matters regarding in-country, non-combat Department of
Defense elements (i.e., DOD personnel and organizations
under the command of a combatant commander but not assigned to,
or attached to, the combatant commander). Also called USDR.
use of force policy
Policy guidance issued by the Commandant, US Coast Guard,
on the use of force and weapons.
US forces
All Armed Forces (including the Coast Guard) of the United
States, any person in the Armed Forces of the United States, and
all equipment of any description that either belongs to the US
Armed Forces or is being used (including Type I and II Military
Sealift Command vessels), escorted, or conveyed by the US Armed
Forces.
US national
US citizen and US permanent and temporary legal resident
aliens.
US Transportation Command coordinating instructions
Instructions of the US Transportation Command that
establish suspense dates for selected members of the joint
planning and execution community to complete updates to the
operation plan database. Instructions will ensure that the
target date movement requirements will be validated and
available for scheduling
validate
Execution procedure used by combatant command components,
supporting combatant commanders, and providing organizations to
confirm to the supported commander and US Transportation Command
that all the information records in a time-phased force and
deployment data not only are error-free for automation purposes,
but also accurately reflect the current status, attributes, and
availability of units and requirements. Unit readiness, movement
dates, passengers, and cargo details should be confirmed with
the unit before validation occurs.
validation
1. A process associated with the collection and production
of intelligence that confirms that an intelligence collection or
production requirement is sufficiently important to justify the
dedication of intelligence resources, does not duplicate an
existing requirement, and has not been previously satisfied. 2.
In computer modeling and simulation, the process of determining
the degree to which a model or simulation is an accurate
representation of the real world from the perspective of the
intended uses of the model or simulation. 3. Execution procedure
used by combatant command components, supporting combatant
commanders, and providing organizations to confirm to the
supported commander and US Transportation Command that all the
information records in a time-phased force and deployment data
not only are error free for automation purposes, but also
accurately reflect the current status, attributes, and
availability of units and requirements. Unit readiness,
movementdates, passengers, and cargo details should be confirmed
with theunit before validation occurs. See also independent
review; time-phased force and deployment data; verification.
valuable cargo
Cargo which may be of value during a later stage of
the war.
value engineering
An organized effort directed at analyzing the function of
Department of Defense systems, equipment, facilities,
procedures, and supplies for the purpose of achieving the
required function at the lowest total cost of effective
ownership, consistent with requirements for performance,
reliability, quality, and maintainability.
variability
The manner in which the probability of damage to a
specific target decreases with the distance from ground zero;
or, in damage assessment, a mathematical factor introduced to
average the effects of orientation, minor shielding, and
uncertainty of target response to the effects considered.
variable safety level
See safety level of supply.
variant
1. One of two or more cipher or code symbols that have the
same plain text equivalent. 2. One of several plain text
meanings that are represented by a single code group. Also
called alternative.
variation
The angular difference between true and magnetic north.
See also deviation.
vectored attack
Attack in which a weapon carrier (air, surface, or
subsurface) not holding contact on the target is vectored to the
weapon delivery point by a unit (air, surface, or subsurface)
which holds contact on the target.
vehicle cargo
Wheeled or tracked equipment, including weapons, that
require certain deck space, head room, and other definite
clearance.
vehicle distance
The clearance between vehicles in a column which is
measured from the rear of one vehicle to the front of the
following vehicle.
vehicle summary and priority table
A table listing all vehicles by priority of debarkation
from a combat-loaded ship. It includes the nomenclature,
dimensions, square feet, cubic feet, weight, and stowage
location of each vehicle; the cargo loaded in each vehicle; and
the name of the unit to which the vehicle belongs.
verification
1. In arms control, any action, including inspection,
detection, and identification, taken to ascertain compliance
with agreed measures. 2. In computer modeling and simulation,
the process of determining that a model or simulation
implementation accurately represents the developer's conceptual
description and specifications. See also configuration
management; independent review; validation.
verify
To ensure that the meaning and phraseology of the
transmitted message conveys the exact intention of the
originator.
vertex
In artillery and naval gunfire support, the highest
point in the trajectory of a projectile.
vertex height
See maximum ordinate.
vertical air photograph
An air photograph taken with the optical axis of the
camera perpendicular to the surface of the Earth.
vertical and/or short takeoff and landing
Vertical and/or short takeoff and landing capability for
aircraft.
vertical envelopment
A tactical maneuver in which troops, either air-dropped or
air-landed, attack the rear and flanks of a force, in effect
cutting off or encircling the force.
vertical interval
Difference in altitude between two specified points or
locations, e.g., the battery or firing ship and the target;
observer location and the target; location of previously fired
target and new target; observer and a height of burst; and
battery or firing ship and a height of burst, etc.
vertical landing zone
A specified ground area for landing vertical takeoff and
landing aircraft to embark or disembark troops and/or cargo. A
landing zone may contain one or more landing sites. Also called
VLZ. See also landing zone; vertical takeoff and landing
aircraft.
vertical loading
A type of loading whereby items of like character
are vertically tiered throughout the holds of a ship so that
selected items are available at any stage of the unloading. See
also loading.
vertical probable error
The product of the range probable error and the slope of
fall.
vertical replenishment
The use of a helicopter for the transfer of materiel
to or from a ship. Also called VERTREP.
vertical separation
Separation between aircraft expressed in units of
vertical distance.
vertical strip
A single flightline of overlapping photos. Photography of
this type is normally taken of long, narrow targets such as
beaches or roads.
vertical takeoff and landing aircraft
Fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters capable of taking off
or landing vertically. Also called VTOL aircraft. See also
vertical landing zone; vertical takeoff and landing aircraft
transport area.
vertical takeoff and landing aircraft transport area
Areas to the seaward and on the flanks of the outer
transport and landing ship areas, but preferably inside the area
screen, for launching and/or recovering vertical takeoff and
landing aircraft. Also called VTOL aircraft transport area. See
also vertical takeoff and landing aircraft.
very seriously ill or injured
The casualty status of a person whose illness or injury is
classified by medical authority to be of such severity that life
is imminently endangered. Also called VSII. See also casualty
status.
very small aperture terminal
Refers to a fixed satellite terminal whose antenna
diameter typically does not exceed two meters. Also called VSAT.
vesicant agent
See blister agent.
vignetting
A method of producing a band of color or tone on a
map or chart, the density of which is reduced uniformly from
edge to edge.
visibility range
The horizontal distance (in kilometers or miles) at which
a large dark object can just be seen against the horizon sky in
daylight.
visual call sign
A call sign provided primarily for visual signaling.
See also call sign.
visual information
Use of one or more of the various visual media with or
without sound. Generally, visual information includes still
photography, motion picture photography, video or audio
recording, graphic arts, visual aids, models, display, visual
presentation services, and the support processes. Also called
VI.
visual information documentation
Motion media, still photography, and audio recording of
technical and nontechnical events while they occur, usually not
controlled by the recording crew. Visual information
documentation encompasses Combat Camera, operational
documentation, and technical documentation. Also called VIDOC.
See also combat camera; operational documentation; technical
documentation.
visual meteorological conditions
Weather conditions in which visual flight rules apply;
expressed in terms of visibility, ceiling height, and aircraft
clearance from clouds along the path of flight. When these
criteria do not exist, instrument meteorological conditions
prevail and instrument flight rules must be complied with. Also
called VMC. See also instrument meteorological conditions.
visual mine firing indicator
A device used with exercise mines to indicate that
the mine would have detonated had it been poised.
vital area
A designated area or installation to be defended by
air defense units.
vital ground
Ground of such importance that it must be retained
or controlled for the success of the mission. See also key
terrain.
voice call sign
A call sign provided primarily for voice
communication. See also call sign.
Voluntary Intermodal Sealift Agreement
The objective of the Voluntary Intermodal Sealift
Agreement is to provide the Department of Defense with
assured access to US flag assets, both vessel capacity and
intermodal systems, to meet DOD contingency requirements. This
concept is modeled after DOD's civil reserve air fleet program.
Carriers contractually commit specified portions of their fleet
to meet time-phased DOD contingency requirements. Also called
VISA. See also intermodal; intermodal systems; Sealift Readiness
Program.
voluntary tanker agreement
An agreement established by the Maritime Administration to
provide for US commercial tanker owners and operators to
voluntarily make their vessels available to satisfy Department
of Defense needs. It is designed to meet contingency or war
requirements for point-to-point petroleum, oils, and lubricants
movements, and not to deal with capacity shortages in resupply
operations. Also called VTA.
voluntary training
Training in a non-pay status for Individual Ready
Reservists and active status Standby Reservists. Participation
in voluntary training is for retirement points only and may be
achieved by training with Selected Reserve or voluntary training
units; by active duty for training; by completion of authorized
military correspondence courses; by attendance at designated
courses of instruction; by performing equivalent duty; by
participation in special military and professional events
designated by the Military Departments; or by participation in
authorized Civil Defense activities. Retirees may voluntarily
train with organizations to which they are properly preassigned
by orders for recall to active duty in a national emergency or
declaration of war. Such training shall be limited to that
training made available within the resources authorized by the
Secretary concerned.
voluntary training unit
A unit formed by volunteers to provide Reserve Component
training in a non-pay status for Individual Ready Reservists and
active status Standby Reservists attached under competent orders
and participating in such units for retirement points. Also
called reinforcement training unit.
VOR
An air navigational radio aid which uses phase
comparison of a ground transmitted signal to determine bearing.
This term is derived from the words "very high frequency
omnidirectional radio range."
vulnerability
1. The susceptibility of a nation or military force to any
action by any means through which its war potential or combat
effectiveness may be reduced or its will to fight diminished. 2.
The characteristics of a system that cause it to suffer a
definite degradation (incapability to perform the designated
mission) as a result of having been subjected to a certain level
of effects in an unnatural (manmade) hostile environment. 3. In
information operations, a weakness in information system
security design, procedures, implementation, or internal
controls that could be exploited to gain unauthorized access to
information or an information system. See also information;
information operations; information system.
vulnerability analysis
In information operations, a systematic examination of an
information system or product to determine the adequacy of
security measures, identify security deficiencies, provide data
from which to predict the effectiveness of proposed security
measures, and confirm the adequacy of such measures after
implementation. See also information operations; information
system; security; vulnerability.
vulnerability assessment
A Department of Defense, command, or unit-level evaluation
(assessment) to determine the vulnerability of a terrorist
attack against an installation, unit, exercise, port, ship,
residence, facility, or other site. Identifies areas of
improvement to withstand, mitigate, or deter acts of violence or
terrorism
vulnerability program
A program to determine the degree of any existing
susceptibility of nuclear weapon systems to enemy
countermeasures, accidental fire, and accidental shock and to
remedy these weaknesses insofar as possible.
vulnerability study
An analysis of the capabilities and limitations of a force
in a specific situation to determine vulnerabilities capable of
exploitation by an opposing force
vulnerable area
See vital area.
vulnerable node
See target stress point.
vulnerable point
See vital area.
wading crossing
See deep fording capability; shallow fording.
walking patient
A patient whose injuries and/or illness are relatively
minor, permitting the patient to walk and not require a litter.
See also litter; patient; slightly wounded.
wanted cargo
In naval control of shipping, a cargo which is not
immediately required by the consignee country but will be needed
later.
warble
In naval mine warfare, the process of varying the
frequency of sound produced by a narrow band noisemaker to
ensure that the frequency to which the mine will respond is
covered.
warden system
An informal method of communication used to pass
information to US citizens during emergencies. See also
noncombatant evacuation operations.
war game
A simulation, by whatever means, of a military operation
involving two or more opposing forces using rules, data, and
procedures designed to depict an actual or assumed real life
situation.
warhead
That part of a missile, projectile, torpedo, rocket, or
other munition which contains either the nuclear or
thermonuclear system, high explosive system, chemical or
biological agents, or inert materials intended to inflict
damage.
warhead mating
The act of attaching a warhead section to a rocket or
missile body, torpedo, airframe, motor, or guidance section.
warhead section
A completely assembled warhead, including
appropriate skin sections and related components.
war materiel procurement capability
The quantity of an item that can be acquired by orders
placed on or after the day an operation commences (D-day) from
industry or from any other available source during the period
prescribed for war materiel procurement planning purposes.
war materiel requirement
The quantity of an item required to equip and support the
approved forces specified in the current Secretary of Defense
guidance through the period prescribed for war materiel planning
purposes.
warned exposed
The vulnerability of friendly forces to nuclear
weapon effects. In this condition, personnel are assumed to be
prone with all skin covered and with thermal protection at least
that provided by a two-layer summer uniform. See also unwarned
exposed; warned protected.
warned protected
The vulnerability of friendly forces to nuclear
weapon effects. In this condition, personnel are assumed to have
some protection against heat, blast, and radiation such as that
afforded in closed armored vehicles or crouched in fox holes
with improvised overhead shielding. See also unwarned exposed;
warned exposed.
warning
1. A communication and acknowledgment of dangers implicit
in a wide spectrum of activities by potential opponents ranging
from routine defense measures to substantial increases in
readiness and force preparedness and to acts of terrorism or
political, economic, or military provocation. 2. Operating
procedures, practices, or conditions that may result in injury
or death if not carefully observed or followed.
warning area
See danger area.
warning net
A communication system established for the purpose of
disseminating warning information of enemy movement or action to
all interested commands.
warning of attack
A warning to national policymakers that an adversary is
not only preparing its armed forces for war, but intends to
launch an attack in the near future. See also tactical warning;
warning; warning of war.
warning of war
A warning to national policymakers that a state or
alliance intends war, or is on a course that substantially
increases the risks of war and is taking steps to prepare for
war. See also strategic warning; warning; warning of attack.
warning order
1. A preliminary notice of an order or action which
is to follow. 2. (DOD only) A crisis action planning directive
issued by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff that
initiates the development and evaluation of courses of action by
a supported commander and requests that a commander's estimate
be submitted. 3. (DOD only) A planning directive that describes
the situation, allocates forces and resources, establishes
command relationships, provides other initial planning guidance,
and initiates subordinate unit mission planning.
warning red
See air defense warning conditions.
warning shots
The firing of shots or delivery of ordnance by personnel
or weapons systems in the vicinity of a person, vessel, or
aircraft as a signal to immediately cease activity. Warning
shots are one measure to convince a potentially hostile force to
withdraw or cease its threatening actions.
warning white
See air defense warning conditions.
warning yellow
See air defense warning conditions.
warp
To haul a ship ahead by line or anchor.
war reserve materiel requirement
That portion of the war materiel requirement required to
be on hand on D-day. This level consists of the war materiel
requirement less the sum of the peacetime assets assumed to be
available on D-day and the war materiel procurement capability.
war reserve materiel requirement, balance
That portion of the war reserve materiel requirement that
has not been acquired or funded. This level consists of the war
reserve materiel requirement less the war reserve materiel
requirement, protectable.
war reserve materiel requirement, protectable
That portion of the war reserve materiel requirement that
is either on hand and/or previously funded that shall be
protected; if issued for peacetime use, it shall be promptly
reconstituted. This level consists of the pre-positioned war
reserve materiel requirement, protectable, and the other war
reserve materiel requirement, protectable.
war reserve (nuclear)
Nuclear weapons materiel stockpiled in the custody of the
Department of Energy or transferred to the custody of the
Department of Defense and intended for employment in the event
of war.
war reserves
Stocks of materiel amassed in peacetime to meet the
increase in military requirements consequent upon an outbreak of
war. War reserves are intended to provide the interim support
essential to sustain operations until resupply can be effected.
war reserve stock
That portion of total materiel assets designated to
satisfy the war reserve materiel requirement. Also called WRS.
See also reserve; war reserve materiel requirement; war
reserves.
war reserve stocks for allies
A Department of Defense program to have the Services
procure or retain in their inventories those minimum stockpiles
of materiel such as munitions, equipment, and combat-essential
consumables to ensure support for selected allied forces in time
of war until future in-country production and external resupply
can meet the estimated combat consumption.
wartime load
The maximum quantity of supplies of all kinds which a ship
can carry. The composition of the load is prescribed by proper
authority.
wartime manpower planning system
A standardized Department of Defense (DOD)-wide procedure,
structure, and database for computing, compiling, projecting,
and portraying the time-phased wartime manpower requirements,
demand, and supply of the DOD components. Also called WARMAPS.
See also S-day.
wartime reserve modes
Characteristics and operating procedures of sensor,
communications, navigation aids, threat recognition, weapons,
and countermeasures systems that will contribute to military
effectiveness if unknown to or misunderstood by opposing
commanders before they are used, but could be exploited or
neutralized if known in advance. Wartime reserve modes are
deliberately held in reserve for wartime or emergency use and
seldom, if ever, applied or intercepted prior to such use. Also
called WARM.
watching mine
In naval mine warfare, a mine secured to its mooring
but showing on the surface, possibly only in certain tidal
conditions. See also floating mine; mine.
watercraft
Any vessel or craft designed specifically and only for
movement on the surface of the water.
waterspace management
The allocation of waterspace in terms of antisubmarine
warfare attack procedures to permit the rapid and effective
engagement of hostile submarines while preventing inadvertent
attacks on friendly submarines.
water terminal
A facility for berthing ships simultaneously at piers,
quays, and/or working anchorages, normally located within
sheltered coastal waters adjacent to rail, highway, air, and/or
inland water transportation networks.
wave
1. A formation of forces, landing ships, craft,
amphibious vehicles or aircraft, required to beach or land about
the same time. Can be classified as to type, function or order
as shown: a. assault wave; b. boat wave; c. helicopter wave; d.
numbered wave; e. on-call wave; f. scheduled wave. 2. (DOD only)
An undulation of water caused by the progressive movement of
energy from point to point along the surface of the water.
wave crest
The highest part of a wave. See also crest; wave.
wave height
The vertical distance between trough and crest, usually
expressed in feet. See also wave.
wave length
The horizontal distance between successive wave crests
measured perpendicular to the crest, usually expressed in
feet.See also crest; wave; wave crest.
wave-off
An action to abort a landing, initiated by the bridge,
primary flight control, landing safety officer or enlisted man,
or pilot at his or her discretion. The response to a wave-off
signal is mandatory. See also abort; primary flight control.
wave period
The time it takes for two successive wave crests to pass a
given point. See also wave; wave crest.
wave trough
The lowest part of the wave between crests. See also
crest; wave.
wave velocity
The speed at which a wave form advances across the sea,
usually expressed in knots. See also wave.
way point
1. In air operations, a point or a series of points in
space to which an aircraft, ship, or cruise missile may be
vectored. 2. A designated point or series of points loaded and
stored in a global positioning system or other electronic
navigational aid system to facilitate movement.
W-day
See times.
weapon and payload identification
1. The determination of the type of weapon being used in
an attack. 2. The discrimination of a re-entry vehicle from
penetration aids being utilized with the re-entry vehicle. See
also attack assessment.
weapon debris (nuclear)
The residue of a nuclear weapon after it has exploded;
that is, materials used for the casing and other components of
the weapon, plus unexpended plutonium or uranium, together with
fission products.
weaponeering
The process of determining the quantity of a specific type
of lethal or nonlethal weapons required to achieve a specific
level of damage to a given target, considering target
vulnerability, weapons effect, munitions delivery accuracy,
damage criteria, probability of kill, and weapon reliability.
weapon engagement zone
In air defense, airspace of defined dimensions within
which the responsibility for engagement of air threats normally
rests with a particular weapon system. Also called WEZ. a.
fighter engagement zone. 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. b. high-altitude missile engagement zone. In
air defense, that airspace of defined dimensions within which
the responsibility for engagement of air threats normally rests
with high-altitude surface-to-air missiles. Also called HIMEZ.
c. low-altitude missile engagement zone. In air defense, that
airspace of defined dimensions within which the responsibility
for engagement of air threats normally rests with low- to
medium-altitude surface-to-air missiles. Also called LOMEZ. d.
short-range air defense engagement zone. In air defense, that
airspace of defined dimensions within which the responsibility
for engagement of air threats normally rests with short-range
air defense weapons. It may be established within a low- or
high-altitude missile engagement zone. Also called SHORADEZ. e.
joint engagement zone. In air defense, that airspace of defined
dimensions within which multiple air defense systems
(surface-to-air missiles and aircraft) are simultaneously
employed to engage air threats. Also called JEZ.
weapons assignment
In air defense, the process by which weapons are
assigned to individual air weapons controllers for use in
accomplishing an assigned mission.
weapons free zone
An air defense zone established for the protection of key
assets or facilities, other than air bases, where weapon systems
may be fired at any target not positively recognized as
friendly.
weapons of mass destruction
Weapons that are capable of a high order of destruction
and/or of being used in such a manner as to destroy large
numbers of people. Weapons of mass destruction can be high
explosives or nuclear, biological, chemical, and radiological
weapons, but exclude the means of transporting or propelling the
weapon where such means is a separable and divisible part of the
weapon. Also called WMD. See also destruction; special
operations.
weapons readiness state
The degree of readiness of air defense weapons which can
become airborne or be launched to carry out an assigned task.
Weapons readiness states are expressed in numbers of weapons and
numbers of minutes. Weapon readiness states are defined as
follows: a. 2 minutes--Weapons can be launched within two
minutes. b. 5 minutes--Weapons can be launched within five
minutes. c. 15 minutes--Weapons can be launched within fifteen
minutes. d. 30 minutes--Weapons can be launched within thirty
minutes. e. 1 hour--Weapons can be launched within one hour. f.
3 hours--Weapons can be launched within three hours. g.
released--Weapons are released from defense commitment for a
specified period of time.
weapons recommendation sheet
A sheet or chart which defines the intention of the
attack, and recommends the nature of weapons, and resulting
damage expected, tonnage, fuzing, spacing, desired mean points
of impact, and intervals of reattack.
weapons state of readiness
See weapons readiness state.
weapon(s) system
A combination of one or more weapons with all
related equipment, materials, services, personnel, and means of
delivery and deployment (if applicable) required for
self-sufficiency.
weapon system employment concept
A description in broad terms, based on established
outline characteristics, of the application of a particular
equipment or weapon system within the framework of tactical
concept and future doctrines.
weapon system video
1. Imagery recorded by video camera systems aboard
aircraft or ship that shows delivery and impact of
air-to-ground, or surface-to-air ordnance and air-to-air
engagements. 2. A term used to describe the overarching program
or process of capturing, clipping, digitizing, editing, and
transmitting heads-up display or multi-function display imagery.
3. A term used to refer to actual equipment used by various
career fields to perform all or part of the weapon system video
process. Also called WSV.
weapon-target line
An imaginary straight line from a weapon to a target.
weather central
An organization that collects, collates, evaluates, and
disseminates meteorological information in such manner that it
becomes a principal source of such information for a given area
weather deck
A deck having no overhead protection; uppermost deck.
weather minimum
The worst weather conditions under which aviation
operations may be conducted under either visual or instrument
flight rules. Usually prescribed by directives and standing
operating procedures in terms of minimum ceiling, visibility, or
specific hazards to flight.
weight and balance sheet
A sheet which records the distribution of weight in
an aircraft and shows the center of gravity of an aircraft at
takeoff and landing.
wellness
Force health protection program that consolidates and
incorporates physical and mental fitness, health promotion, and
environmental and occupational health. See also force health
protection.
wharf
A structure built of open rather than solid construction
along a shore or a bank that provides cargo-handling facilities.
A similar facility of solid construction is called a quay. See
also quay.
wheel load capacity
The capacity of airfield runways, taxiways, parking areas,
or roadways to bear the pressures exerted by aircraft or
vehicles in a gross weight static configuration.
white cap
A small wave breaking offshore as a result of the action
of strong winds. See also wave.
whiteout
Loss of orientation with respect to the horizon
caused by sun reflecting on snow and overcast sky.
white propaganda
Propaganda disseminated and acknowledged by the sponsor or
by an accredited agency thereof. See also propaganda.
Wilson cloud
See condensation cloud.
winch
A hoisting machine used for loading and discharging cargo
and stores or for hauling in lines. See also stores.
wind shear
A change of wind direction and magnitude.
wind velocity
The horizontal direction and speed of air motion.
wing
1. An Air Force unit composed normally of one primary
mission group and the necessary supporting organizations, i.e.,
organizations designed to render supply, maintenance,
hospitalization, and other services required by the primary
mission groups. Primary mission groups may be functional, such
as combat, training, transport, or service. 2. A fleet air wing
is the basic organizational and administrative unit for naval-,
land-, and tender-based aviation. Such wings are mobile units to
which are assigned aircraft squadrons and tenders for
administrative organization control. 3. A balanced Marine Corps
task organization of aircraft groups and squadrons, together
with appropriate command, air control, administrative, service,
and maintenance units. A standard Marine Corps aircraft wing
contains the aviation elements normally required for the air
support of a Marine division. 4. A flank unit; that part of a
military force to the right or left of the main body.
wingman
An aviator subordinate to and in support of the designated
section leader; also, the aircraft flown in this role.
withdrawal operation
A planned retrograde operation in which a force in contact
disengages from an enemy force and moves in a direction away
from the enemy.
withhold (nuclear)
The limiting of authority to employ nuclear weapons by
denying their use within specified geographical areas or certain
countries.
working anchorage
An anchorage where ships lie to discharge cargoes
over-side to coasters or lighters. See also emergency anchorage.
working capital fund
A revolving fund established to finance inventories of
supplies and other stores, or to provide working capital for
industrial-type activities.
work order
A specific or blanket authorization to perform certain
work--usually broader in scope than a job order. It is sometimes
used synonymously with job order.
world geographic reference system
See georef.
Worldwide Port System
Automated information system to provide cargo management
and accountability to water port and regional commanders while
providing in-transit visibility to the Global Transportation
Network. Also called WPS. See also Global Transportation
Network.
wounded
See seriously wounded; slightly wounded.
wounded in action
A casualty category applicable to a hostile casualty,
other than the victim of a terrorist activity, who has incurred
an injury due to an external agent or cause. The term
encompasses all kinds of wounds and other injuries incurred in
action, whether there is a piercing of the body, as in a
penetration or perforated wound, or none, as in the contused
wound. These include fractures, burns, blast concussions, all
effects of biological and chemical warfare agents, and the
effects of an exposure to ionizing radiation or any other
destructive weapon or agent. The hostile casualty's status may
be categorized as "very seriously ill or injured," "seriously
ill or injured," "incapacitating illness or injury," or "not
seriously injured." Also called WIA. See also casualty category.
wreckage locator chart
A chart indicating the geographic location of all known
aircraft wreckage sites and all known vessel wrecks that show
above low water or can be seen from the air. It consists of a
visual plot of each wreckage, numbered in chronological order,
and cross referenced with a wreckage locator file containing all
pertinent data concerning the wreckage.
yaw
1. The rotation of an aircraft, ship, or missile
about its vertical axis so as to cause the longitudinal axis of
the aircraft, ship, or missile to deviate from the flight line
or heading in its horizontal plane. 2. Angle between the
longitudinal axis of a projectile at any moment and the tangent
to the trajectory in the corresponding point of flight of the
projectile.
yield
See nuclear yields.
zero-length launching
A technique in which the first motion of the missile
or aircraft removes it from the launcher.
zero point
The location of the center of a burst of a nuclear weapon
at the instant of detonation. The zero point may be in the air,
or on or beneath the surface of land or water, depending upon
the type of burst, and it is thus to be distinguished from
ground zero.
zone III (nuclear)
A circular area (less zones I and II) determined by using
minimum safe distance III as the radius and the desired ground
zero as the center in which all personnel require minimum
protection. Minimum protection denotes that armed forces
personnel are prone on open ground with all skin areas covered
and with an overall thermal protection at least equal to that
provided by a two-layer uniform.
zone II (nuclear)
A circular area (less zone I) determined by using minimum
safe distance II as the radius and the desired ground zero as
the center in which all personnel require maximum protection.
Maximum protection denotes that armed forces personnel are in
"buttoned up" tanks or crouched in foxholes with improvised
overhead shielding.
zone I (nuclear)
A circular area determined by using minimum safe distance
I as the radius and the desired ground zero as the center from
which all armed forces are evacuated. If evacuation is not
possible or if a commander elects a higher degree of risk,
maximum protective measures will be required.
zone of action
A tactical subdivision of a larger area, the
responsibility for which is assigned to a tactical unit;
generally applied to offensive action. See also sector.
zone of fire
An area into which a designated ground unit or fire
support ship delivers, or is prepared to deliver, fire support.
Fire may or may not be observed.
ZULU time
See Universal Time.
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