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APP-6(B)

JOINT SYMBOLOGY

JUNE 2008

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NATIONAL LETTER OF PROMULGATION

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RECORD OF CHANGES

Change Date Effective By Whom

Date Entered Date Entered

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RECORD OF RESERVATIONS BY NATIONS

CHAPTER RECORD OF RESERVATIONS BY NATIONS

General DEU

General EST

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RECORD OF SPECIFIC RESERVATIONS

NATION SPECIFIC RESERVATIONS

Germany will implement STANAG 2019/APP-6(B) initially for

DEU manual use only; automated systems will follow on a case-by-
case basis.

EST Joint symbology will be used by navy as soon as possible

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PREFACE
0001. This standard provides common operational symbology along with details on its
display and plotting to ensure the compatibility and, to the greatest extent possible,
the interoperability of NATO Command, Control, Communications, Computer, and
Intelligence (C4I) systems, development, operations, and training and is intended to
be equally applicable to operations conducted by a coalition of NATO, partners,
non-NATO nations and other organisation.

0002. After NATO Standardisation Agency (NSA) positioned APP-6 as a joint document,
its title was changed to JOINT SYMBOLOGY to reflect the broader applicability to
all services and to joint and combined operations. This new Edition establishes a
baseline of changes agreed and reflects the harmonization initialised with the other
services. It also provides additional symbols much needed by the warfighting
community that were agreed during meetings of the custodial group.

0003. APP-6B contains figures and tables that provide the user with standard frames
(geometric borders, see Figure 2) and icons, along with guidelines for their use.
Each of the icons listed can be cross-referenced to the information hierarchy
(taxonomy) and the symbol coding scheme as depicted by the respective Annexes.

0004. APP-6B is designed to be flexible enough to accommodate change and further

development and input from the operators and users. Changes to these symbols and
the addition of new symbol sets will be worked through NATO procedures.

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CONTENTS
Title Page
Cover I
NATO Standardisation Agency Letter of Promulgation III
National Letter of Promulgation V
Record of Changes IX
Preface IX
Contents XI

Chapter 1 – Introduction
Scope 1-1
Purpose 1-1
Applicability 1-1
Content 1-1

Chapter 2 – Requirements
Section I - General Requirements 2-1
Objective 2-1
Organization 2-1
Icon-based symbols 2-1
Figure 1. Symbol components 2-1
Tactical graphics 2-2
Symbol modifiers 2-2
Symbol ID code 2-2
Use of special symbol sets 2-2

Section II - Detailed Requirements 2-3

Objective 2-3
Icon-based symbols 2-3
Use of special symbol sets 2-3
Figure 2. Affiliations and battle dimensions 2-4
Figure 3. Examples of black and white dotted lines on 2-5
various backgrounds
Figure 4. Present and planned status 2-6
Tactical graphics 2-7
Symbol modifiers 2-7
Table I. Symbol modifier Field definitions 2-8
Figure 5. Field positions for units, installations, and 2-11
equipment
Figure 6. Placement of modifiers for points, areas, lines, and 2-11
boundaries
Figure 7. Placement of modifiers for CBRN events 2-12
Figure 8. Symbol modifiers 2-12
Table II. Size /mobility 2-14
Figure 9. Special C2 headquarters symbol 2-16
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Title Page
Display 2-16
Figure 10. Example of display option hierarchy 2-17

Annex A – Symbol Hierarchy

Scope A-1
Common operational symbology hierarchy A-1
Figure A-1. Warfighting symbols A-1
Figure A-2. Space Track A-2
Figure A-3. Air Track A-2
Figure A-4. Air Track (Military Fixed Wing) A-3
Figure A-5. Air Track (Rotary Wing) A-4
Figure A-6. Air Track (Missile in Flight) A-5
Figure A-7. Ground Track A-6
Figure A-8. Ground Track (Air Defence) A-7
Figure A-9. Ground Track (Armour) A-8
Figure A-10. Ground track (Anti-armour) A-8
Figure A-11. Ground Track (Aviation) A-9
Figure A-12. Ground Track (Fixed Wing) A-10
Figure A-13. Ground Track (Infantry) A-10
Figure A-14. Ground Track (Engineer) A-11
Figure A-15. Ground Track (Field Artillery) A-12
Figure A-16. Ground Track (Reconnaissance) A-13
Figure A-17. Ground Track (Missile Surface to Surface) A-13
Figure A-18. Ground Track (Internal Security Forces) A-14
Figure A-19. Ground Track (Combat Support) A-15
Figure A-20. Ground Track (CBRN) A-16
Figure A-21. Ground Track (Military Intelligence) A-17
Figure A-22. Ground Track (Signal Unit) A-18
Figure A-23. Ground Track (Combat Service Support) A-18
Figure A-24. Ground Track (Administrative) A-19
Figure A-25. Ground Track (Public Affairs) A-20
Figure A-26. Ground Track (Medical Treatment Facility) A-20
Figure A-27. Ground Track (Supply) A-21
Figure A-28. Ground Track (Class III) A-22
Figure A-29. Ground Track (Water) A-22
Figure A-30. Ground Track (Transportation) A-23
Figure A-31. Ground Track (Maintenance) A-23
Figure A-32. Ground Track (Ordinance) A-24
Figure A-33. Ground Track (Equipment) A-24
Figure A-34. Ground Track (Weapons) A-25
Figure A-35. Ground Track (Missile Launchers) A-26
Figure A-36. Ground Track (Howitzer) A-26
Figure A-37. Ground Track (Direct Fire Gun) A-27
Figure A-28. Ground Track (Ground Vehicle) A-27
Figure A-39. Ground Track (Tank) A-28
Figure A-40. Ground Track (Armoured Personnel Carrier) A-28
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Figure A-41. Ground Track (Special Equipment) A-29
Figure A-42. Ground Track (Installation) A-30
Figure A-43. Ground Track (Raw Material Production/ A-31
Storage)
Figure A-44. Sea Surface Track A-31
Figure A-45. Sea Surface Track (Combatant) A-32
Figure A-46. Sea Surface Track (Non-Combatant) A-32
Figure A-47. Sea Surface Track (Non-Military) A-33
Figure A-48. Sea Surface Track (Emergency) A-33
Figure A-49. Sea Surface Track (Hazard) A-34
Figure A-50. Sea Subsurface Track A-34
Figure A-51. Sea Sub Surface Track (Submarine) A-35
Figure A-52. Sea Sub Surface Track (Underwater Weapon) A-35
Figure A-53. Sea Sub Surface Track (Non-Submarine) A-36
Figure A-54. Special Operations Force (SOF) Unit A-36
Figure A-55. Special Operations Force (SOF) Unit A-37
(Aviation)
Figure A-56. Special Operations Force (SOF) Unit (Naval) A-37
Figure A-57. Special Operations Force (SOF) Unit (Ground) A-38
Figure A-58. Tactical Graphics A-38
Figure A-59. Task Graphics A-39
Figure A-60. Control Measures A-40
Figure A-61. General Manoeuvre Graphics A-41
Figure A-62. General Boundaries A-42
Figure A-63. General Area A-42
Figure A-64. Assembly Area A-43
Figure A-65. Aviation Manoeuvre Graphics A-43
Figure A-66. Deception Graphics A-44
Figure A-67. Defence Manoeuvre Graphics A-45
Figure A-68. Offensive Manoeuvre Graphics A-46
Figure A-69. Offensive Manoeuvre Graphics (Axis of A-47
Advance)
Figure A-70. Offensive Manoeuvre Graphics (Direction of A-48
Attack)
Figure A-71. Offence Area Graphics A-49
Figure A-72. Special Manoeuvre Graphics A-49
Figure A-73. Mobility Survivability A-50
Figure A-74. Obstacles A-51
Figure A-75. Obstacle Bypass A-52
Figure A-76. Survivability Support A-52
Figure A-77. Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear A-53
Graphics
Figure A-78. Fire Support Graphics A-54
Figure A-79. Fire Support Lines A-54
Figure A-80. Areas A-55
Figure A-81. Combat Service Support A-55
Figure A-82. Combat Service Support (Points) A-56
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Figure A-83. Combat Service Support (Lines) A-57
Figure A-84. Combat Service Support (Area) A-57
Figure A-85. Command and Control A-58
Figure A-86. Command and Control (Special Point) A-59
Figure A-87. NA5CRO A-60
Figure A-88. Operations A-61
Figure A-89. Weather A-62
Figure A-90. Weather (Pressure Systems) A-63
Figure A-91. Weather (Icing) A-64
Figure A-92. Precipitation A-64

Annex B – Symbol ID Coding

Scope B-1
Symbol ID code B-1
Table B-I. Symbol ID code positions and categories B-2
Table B-II. Symbol ID codes - size/mobility B-3
Table B-III. Warfighting symbol ID codes - Space B-6
Table B-IV. Warfighting symbol ID codes - Air B-7
Table B-V. Warfighting symbol ID codes - Ground B-10
Table B-VI. Warfighting symbol ID codes - Sea Surface B-26
Table B-VIII. Warfighting symbol ID codes - Special B-29
Operations Force
Table B-IX. Tactical graphics symbol ID codes B-30
Table B-X. Weather graphics symbol ID codes B-46

Annex C – Technical Specifications

Scope C-1
Relative symbol and modifier dimensions C-1
Figure C-1. Symbol frame relative sizes C-1
Figure C-2. Example exceptions to icon placement C-3
Symbol size C-3
Table C-I. Minimum symbol size at selected viewing C-4
distances
Figure C-3. Complex symbols with multiple icons C-4
Adding temporary features to standard symbols C-4
Figure C-4. Extending the symbol C-6
Line Width C-6
Colour C-6
Table C-II. Default colours C-7
Icon placement within frames C-8
Figure C-5. Icon placement C-8
Equipment mobility indicators C-8
Figure C-6. Equipment mobility indicators C-9
Adding new modifiers C-12
Figure C-7. Sub-role identifiers C-12

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Title Page
Annex D – Icon Set
Scope D-1
Operational Symbology Icon Set D-1
Icon Graphic Representation D-1
Organization of Appendices D-1 to D-6 D-1
Appendix D-1. Icon set-space D-1-1
Appendix D-2. Operational icon set-air D-2-1
Appendix D-3. Operational icon set-ground D-3-1
Part 1..Unit D-3-1
Part 2 Equipment and Installations D-3-49
Appendix D-4. Operational icon set-sea-surface D-4-1
Appendix D-5. Warrior icon set-subsurface D-5-1
Appendix D-6. Warrior icon set-special operations force D-6-1

Annex E – Tactical Graphics

Scope E-1
Battlespace geometry E-1
Figure E-1. Tactical graphics E-2

Annex F – Weather Symbol Sets

Scope F-1
Weather Symbology F-1
Figure F-1. Weather graphics F-1

Annex G – Comparative Formation/Unit Designations

General G-1
BEL G-2
BGR G-3
CAN G-4
CZE G-5
DEU G-6
DNK G-7
ESP G-8
EST G-9
FRA G-10
GBR G-11
GRC G-12
HUN G-13
ISL G-14
ITA G-15
LTU G-16
LUX G-17
LVA G-18
NLD G-19
NOR G-20
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Title Page
POL G-21
PRT G-22
ROU G-23
SVK G-24
SVN G-25
TUR G-26
USA G-27
Explanatory Notes G-28

Lexicon
Part I – Acronyms and Abbreviations L-1
Part II – Terms and Definitions L-8

References R-1

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CHAPTER 1 – INTRODUCTION
Scope

0101. This standard provides common operational symbology along with details on its
display and plotting to ensure the compatibility, and to the greatest extent possible,
the interoperability of NATO Command, Control, Communications, Computer, and
Intelligence (C4I) systems, development, operations, and training. This publication
offers a way to address the efficient transmission of symbology information within
the info-sphere through the use of a standard methodology for symbol hierarchy,
information taxonomy, and symbol identifiers. The standard applies to both
electronic/automated and hand-drawn graphic displays. These symbols are
designed to enhance NATO’s joint interoperability by providing a standard set of
common C4I symbols. It is important to remember that the graphics of this
document are not all inclusive, and other standards may apply. Additional symbol
sets will be provided when this document is updated.

Purpose

0102. Allied Procedural Publication 6 (B) (APP-6B) replaces APP-6A. The contents of
APP-6B constitute a single system of joint military symbology for formations and
units, which can be displayed for either electronic/automated map display systems
or for manual map marking. This publication covers all of the joint services and
shall be used by them.

Applicability

0103. This standard applies to all NATO forces directly or indirectly involved with C4I
operations, system operations, system development, and training. APP-6B will
serve as the standard symbol set for all future NATO implementations of C4I
symbology in two dimensional and electronic display systems. The standard shall
be applied to mapping/charting, weather, and engineering design symbology to the
extent that it is usable by these communities.

Content

0104. APP-6B contains figures and tables that provide the user with standard frames
(geometric borders, see Figure 2) and icons, along with guidelines for their use.
Each of the icons listed can be cross-referenced to the information hierarchy
(taxonomy) and the symbol coding scheme, Annexes A and B respectively. The
information hierarchy contained in Appendix A provides an organization or
structure for C4I symbology which encompasses the tactical information
commonly exchanged via symbology. Each symbol category and icon is given a
number that is cross-referenced to a symbol code provided in Appendix B. Also
provided is a tactical graphics section (Appendix E), which addresses lines, areas,
points, fire support planning graphics, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and
Nuclear (CBRN) symbology, depiction of airspace control structures, bearings,
etc.. If common operational symbology is implemented to visually display or
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present symbology, the capability must comply with the provisions of this
publication.

0105. Additional icons, refinement of the hierarchy, refinement of the coding scheme, and
additional tactical graphics will be developed and presented in future updates of
this publication. Special symbol sets will be released as they are developed.

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is provided in Paragraph 0210.c. and Annex C; framing requirements for

individual icons are presented in Annex D.

Tactical graphics
0204. Tactical graphics provide operational information that cannot be presented via
icon-based symbols alone. These graphics portray unit boundaries, special area
designations, and other unique markings related to battlespace geometry and
necessary for battlefield planning and management (see Annex E).

Symbol modifiers
0205. A modifier is an optional text field or graphic indicator that provides additional
information about the associated symbol or tactical graphic. This publication
defines various types of modifiers and indicates where each is to be placed in
relation to a symbol or tactical graphic, see Paragraph 0212.

Symbol ID code
0206. A symbol ID code is an alphanumeric code that can be used to transfer the
information required to generate and display symbols and tactical graphics. The
coding scheme used in this identifier is explained in detail in Annex B.

Use of special symbol sets

0207. The symbology provided in this publication is intended to address the C4I
information needs of NATO. Information from all operational domains will need to
be displayed in order to accurately portray the battlespace. Annex F contains
symbology of potential interest to the users of the document.

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Section II - DETAILED REQUIREMENTS

Objective
0208. In order to promote interoperability at the information level within the area of
operational symbology, it is necessary to define a standard set of rules for symbol
construction and generation to be implemented in C4I systems. The rules in this
publication are considered to be the minimum necessary to ensure that information
about operational symbology is exchanged successfully across national and
Organisational boundaries.
Icon-based symbols
0209. This section provides the detailed requirements concerning symbology composition
and display considered essential to achieve interoperability. Display rules are
provided which allow the degree of complexity of the resulting symbology to be
tailored to operational requirements and system capabilities. Additional
implementation guidance is provided in Annex C.
Use of special symbol sets
0210. The components of an icon-based symbol provide information about the affiliation,
battle dimension, status, and mission of an operational object.
a. Frame (geometric border). When a frame is included in a symbol, its
shape shall indicate the affiliation, battle dimension, and status of the object
being represented. Figure 2 provides the approved frame shapes that
present affiliation and battle dimension for operational symbology. A
frame can be black or off-white depending on display background, or it can
be coloured, using the default colours in Table C-II, to provide enhanced
presentation information about affiliation. Information on display options
is presented in Paragraph 0213.a. and Annex C.
(1) Affiliation. Affiliation refers to your relationship to the operational
object being represented. The affiliation categories are friend,
assumed friend, hostile, suspect, neutral, unknown and pending. A
circle or rectangle frame is to denote friend or assumed friend
affiliation, a diamond frame to denote hostile or suspect affiliation,
a square frame to denote neutral affiliation, and a quatrefoil frame
to denote unknown and pending affiliation. A solid line is used to
denote the certainty of identification of affiliation and shall identify
the symbol as friend, hostile, neutral and unknown. A black and
white dotted line (one dot black and one dot white in an alternating
pattern) denotes the uncertainty of identification of affiliation and
shall identify the symbol as assumed friend, suspect, or pending.
Figure 3 shows the black and white dotted lines on various
backgrounds. Each of these affiliation categories is defined in the
Lexicon. The codes for affiliation in the symbol identification code
are included in Annex B.

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from the default when systems require the capability to make distinctions
among multiple types of forces, equipment, boundaries, etc..
c. Icon. In order to decide on the common operational symbology in this
standard, it was necessary to identify the full range of C4I information
required by the joint component at the command level. The taxonomy used
in this standard was adapted from one presented in a maritime Study and
then extended to address information related to ground units. Due to the
fact that the taxonomy is organized hierarchically, the detailed information
it contains provides a logical structure from which to generate a set of icons
representing operational objects. The information hierarchy is presented in
Annex A, and the mapping of operational icons to the hierarchy is included
in Annex D. The icons in Annex D shall be used whenever a system
displays any of the operational objects for which an icon is provided. Not
all information about objects can be related to a specific affiliation or battle
dimension; therefore, it is possible to have an object represented by an icon
alone. Annex D indicates whether an icon shall be framed or unframed or
whether framing is optional. Military ships, both sea surface and
subsurface, military aircraft, military units, and installation icons are always
associated with an affiliation and battle dimension and so shall be framed.
Only those icons specifically identified as unframed or frame optional shall
be displayed without a frame.
Tactical graphics
0211. Tactical graphics include tasks, control measures, points, lines, areas, aviation
manoeuvre graphics, deception graphics, offensive/defensive graphics, special
manoeuvre graphics, mobility/survivability, fire support graphics, combat service
support, command and control, and Non-Article 5 Crisis Response Operations
(NA5CRO), and can be combined with icons and symbol modifiers to display
operational information. The definition and placement of tactical graphics are
addressed in Annex E. These graphics shall be used whenever a system displays
any of the operational information for which a graphic is provided. Default colour
for tactical graphics will be black or white, depending on display background.

Symbol modifiers
0212. The field title, description, and maximum length of allowable modifiers are
presented in Table I, and the default placement of modifiers in fields around the
symbol or tactical graphic is shown in Figures 5 through 7. Figure 5 addresses
units, installations, and equipment; the placement of modifiers in this Figure
applies to all units regardless of battle space dimension. Figure 6 applies to points,
areas, lines, and boundaries. Figure 7 addresses CBRN events. In Figure 6, certain
fields can be displayed more than once within a graphic. The unnumbered fields
should be filled before the numbered fields, (i.e., Fields W, H, and T should be
used before Fields W1, H1, and T1). As indicated in Table I, not all modifiers are
applicable to all symbols or graphics. However, when any modifier is displayed, it
shall be defined in accordance with the contents of this table and positioned in
accordance with Figures 5 through 7.

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a. Indicators. Indicators can be used with both framed and unframed

symbols and with tactical graphics. An example of each type of symbol
modifier is given in Figure 8. Implementation guidance, where available, is
provided in Annex C.
(1) Direction of movement. The direction of movement indicator is an
arrow or a line identifying the direction of movement or intended
movement of an object. This indicator is identified as Field Q in
Table I and positioned as shown in Figures 5, 7, and 8. For land
symbols, the indicator is a bent arrow extending downward from the
bottom centre of the frame or icon and pointing in the direction of
movement (see Figures 5 and 8). For all other symbols, the
indicator is an arrow extending from the centre of the frame or icon
and pointing in the direction of movement (see Figure 5). For
CBRN events, the indicator is one or two lines indicating the
downwind direction (see Figure 7).
(2) Size/mobility. The size indicator provides a graphic representation
of size, as shown in Table II. It is identified as Field B in Table I
and positioned as shown in Figures 5, 6, 7, and 8. Size indicators
are also used in tactical graphics, as discussed in Annex E.
Indicator codes for size are listed in Annex B. The mobility
indicator indicates the means of mobility of an object, as shown in
Figure 8, and is used for equipment only. This indicator identifies
mobility other than that intrinsic to the equipment itself. For
example, the symbol for a self-propelled howitzer moving by train
would include a railway mobility indicator, while the symbol for a
tank or other tracked vehicle would not contain any mobility
indicator. The mobility indicator is identified in Field R of Table I
and depicted as shown in Figures 5 and 8.

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new or newly named C2 headquarters. This special indicator is

identified as Field AA and positioned as shown in
Figure 9.

ISAF

Figure 9. Special C2 headquarters symbol.

b. Text. Table I defines the specific content of each text-based symbol

modifier. Air/space and sea track numbers are included in Field T and
positioned as shown in Figures 5 through 7. Staff comments and additional
information are contained in Fields G and H, with the content of these
fields being implementation-specific so long as the maximum number of
characters in each field is not exceeded.

Display

0213. The following rules relate to the construction of operational symbology and apply
to those display requirements necessary to achieve interoperability in joint service
operations. Additional guidance concerning symbology implementation is provided
in Annex C.

a. Symbol display options. C4I systems differ in their operational

requirements concerning the amount of information about an operational
object that needs to be displayed. As a result, this document standardizes
those symbology elements required to achieve interoperability in
information presentation, but allows flexibility in the symbol components
and modifiers that are displayed to the user. Display options available
range from complex (i.e., symbols include frame, fill, and icon) to primitive
(i.e., symbols rendered as dots that denote the presence of an object at a
specific location). Figure 10 provides examples of display options that can
be used in colour and monochrome displays and can either be hand-drawn
or computer-generated. Systems can select one or more display options for
implementation based on operational requirements and display capabilities.

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If multiple options are available, the user may be allowed to choose a single
option for rendering all symbols or to select different options based on the
affiliation or battle dimension of the object and the amount of information
required. For example, the user may choose to display minimal information
about friendly objects (displaying these symbols as dots) and maximal
information about potential threats (displaying these symbols with frame,
fill, and icon).

b. Arrangement of symbol modifiers. When symbol modifiers are

displayed, the symbol itself should be centred within Field A (see Figure 5),
and the position of all modifiers should remain the same whether the
symbol is framed or unframed. While the relative placement of the fields
should be maintained, implementation and size constraints within a system
may require fields to be offset or not displayed. Text modifiers placed to
the left of the symbol should be right justified, and text placed to the right
should be left justified. When multiple text modifiers are displayed in a
single field (e.g., E/F or J/K/L/N/P), they shall be ordered as shown in
Figure 5 and separated by a single space, and the spaces assigned to unused
modifiers shall be collapsed to bring the text as close to the symbol as
possible. Text modifiers placed above the symbol should be bottom
justified and centred. Text below a symbol should be top justified and
centred.

c. Plotting. The plotting of symbols shall be based on the object's geometric

centre. It indicates the general vicinity of the centre of mass of an object.
If a location offset indicator is displayed with a symbol, the base of the
indicator shall indicate the object's location. If a group of objects is
displayed at one location, the group may be enclosed with a bracket and the
location of that group identified with a location indicator. Other display
options for reducing clutter when symbols overlap or are co-located are
considered to be implementation-specific. The positional accuracy of
symbology plotting is also considered implementation-specific.

d. Symbol orientation. The frame and icon in framed symbols shall be

displayed in the orientation illustrated in Annex D. Equipment in the land
battle dimension can be rotated to face the direction of movement only
when the symbol is unframed.

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ANNEX B – SYMBOL IDENTIFICATION CODING

Scope
B0101. A scheme for symbol ID coding permits information systems to display and pass
information about symbols and graphics to other systems for use and display. This
Annex outlines an example of procedures for determining a symbol ID code.

Symbol ID coding scheme

B0102. Symbol ID code. A symbol identification (ID) code is a 15-character
alphanumeric identifier that provides the information necessary to display a symbol
or graphic. Characters need not be present in all 15 positions of a code. Table B-I
identifies the 9 categories of information included in a symbol ID code and the
position each occupies in the 15-character identifier.

a) Code scheme, position 1. This position indicates the overall symbology set
to which a symbol belongs.

b) Affiliation, battle dimension, and status, 2, 3, and 4. These positions

determine the frame shape of a symbol and indicate its actual or planned
location.

c) Function ID, positions 5 through 10. These positions identify a symbol’s

function, with each position providing increasing levels of detail and
specialization. The specific values for these positions are included with the
symbol ID codes in Tables B-III through B-X.

d) Size/mobility indicator code, positions 11 and 12. These positions

identify the size and mobility of a symbol. Table B-II contains the specific
code values used in these positions.

e) Country code, positions 13 and 14. These positions identify the country
with which a symbol is associated. Country code identifiers are listed in
Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) Pub 10 series.

f) Order of battle, position 15. This position provides additional information

about the role of a symbol in the battlespace. For example, a bomber that
has nuclear weapons on board may be strategic force-related, or a tactical
graphic may also perform the role of a control point.

g) Symbol ID code tables. Tables B-III through B-VIII list the codes for
space, air, ground, sea surface, sea subsurface, and special operations
symbols, respectively. Tables B-IX and B-X list the codes for tactical and
weather graphics. In each table, an alphanumeric character indicates the
known value for that position for a given symbol. An asterisk (*) indicates
a position that is defined by the user based on specific symbol
circumstances. A dash (-) indicates that no information is provided in the
position.

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APP-6(B)

ANNEX D – ICON SET

Scope
D0101. The icons generated to support common operational symbology have been
divided into multiple sets. These sets present the icons that provide for
information exchange within the functional areas. These functional areas are
space, air, ground, special operations force and maritime (surface and sub-
surface) and are complemented by tactical and environmental graphics.

Operational Symbology Icon Set

D0102. The icon set is ordered according to the tactical information hierarchy presented
in Annex A and coded according to symbol coding presented in Annex B.

Icon Graphic Representation

D0103. The Appendices to this Annex provide a graphic representation of each approved
icon. The sizes, shapes, and positioning of components of individual icons are
important and should be faithfully reproduced both by C4I system automation
and manually by symbology users. Icons portrayed are all the same size and their
size is not affected by being framed or unframed. Annex C specifies both the
minimum icon size and the relationship of icon size to frame size. Therefore, the
relative size of the icons as shown in the Figure is not important. Icon size is
determined by the user or system developer, as long as the requirements of the
standard are met. Icon axis as presented in the Figures are to be maintained when
the icon, framed or unframed, is placed onto maps, charts, overlays, etc. Icons
depicting equipment from a top-down view shall be oriented to point toward the
top of the page.

Organization of Appendices A to F

D0104. In Appendices A to F the description column provides a concise description of

each icon using terminology commonly used within the C4I community. The
“Hierarchy” column presents the information hierarchy (taxonomy) number
described in Annex A. The “Frame” column presents Icon framing codes
described in Paragraph 0210.a.(1): F (framed), UF (unframed), FO (frame
optional.) An icon with a framing code of F is presented only within its
appropriate frame. An icon with a UF framing code is always presented
unframed. An icon with an FO framing code can be presented with or without a
frame and is shown both ways in Appendices A to F. The Symbol ID column
presents a 15-character alphanumeric identifier used by some automated systems
to create each specific icon. Since all symbols do not necessarily use all 15
characters, a dash (-) fills each unused position. An asterisk (*) in a position
indicates that the position is user defined based on specific symbol circumstances.

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APP-6(B)

ANNEX G
COMPARATIVE FORMATION/UNIT DESIGNATIONS
General
G0101. The data given in this Annex has been provided by each nation. The designations
assigned by the various nations to their formations/units are shown against the
agreed size symbols listed in Table II in Chapter 2 of this document. If a nation
has no formation unit of the size indicated by the symbol, no designation will be
entered. Nations not yet included in this Annex are invited to provide their unit
designations. With a view to making this Annex easier to understand, each
military symbol is accompanied by a group number, which is explained at the end
of the Annex.

G-1
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GR SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

OUP
FRANCAISE NEERLANDAISE
BEL

•
1 Equipe Ploeg (1)

••
2 Section Sectie (1)

•••
3 Peloton Peloton (1)

4 Compagnie Compagnie (1)

Escadron Eskadron armor
I Batterie Batterij artillery
5 Bataillon Bataljon (1)
II Escadrille Escadrille army aviation
6 Groupement Groepering Applies only to home forces
III Regiment Regiment
7 Brigade Brigade (1)

r
8 Division Divisie (1)

rr
9 Corps Legerkorps (1)
d’armée
rrr
10 Armée Leger (2)

rrrr
11 Group Legergroep (2)
d’armée
rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in Belgian armed forces.

G-2
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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

BGR

•
1 (1)
Razchet (Paзҹeт) artilley, signals, air-defence
Ekipazh (Eҝипаҗ) infantry, armour, reconnaissance,
engineers, signals

••
2 (1)
Otdelenie (Отделение) infantry, reconnaissance, NBC, logistic,
signals, engineers

•••
3 (1)
Vzvod (Взвод) infantry, armour, reconnaissance, artillery,
air-defence, engineers, signals, NBC,
logistic,
4 (1)
Rota (Рота) infantry, armour reconnaissance, signals,
I engineers, NBC, logistic
Batareja (Батарея) artillery, air-defence
5 (1)
II Bataliyon (Баталъон) infantry, armour reconnaissance, signals,
engineers, NBC, logistic
Diviziyon (Дивизион) artillery, air-defence
6 (1)
III Polk (Полк) infantry, armour reconnaissance, artillery,
signals, engineers, NBC, logistic

7 (1)
Brigada (Бригада) infantry, armour, artillery, engineers,
r logistic

8 No equivalent (2)

rr
9 Komandvane (1), (3)
(Командване)
rrr
10 Armia (Армия) (1)

rrrr
11 No equivalent (2)

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Bulgarian armed forces.
(3) will exist in the Bulgarian armed forces up to the end of 2006.
Note: Words in Latin letters are the transcribed pronunciation of national designations.

G-3
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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

CAN

•
1 Element smaller than a
Section

••
2 Section (1)

•••
3 (1)
Platoon infantry
Troop armour, artillery, engineers, signals
Section aviation
4 (1)
Company infantry
I Squadron armour, engineers
Battery artillery
Flight aviation
5 Battalion (1)
II Regiment infantry
armour, artillery, engineers, signals
Squadron aviation
6 Regiment (2)
III Wing aviation
Group established as required generally in
support of joint operations
7 Brigade (1)
Brigade group
r Aviation group
8 Division (2)

rr
9 Corps (2)

rrr
10 Army (2)

rrrr
11 Army group (2)

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Canadian armed forces.

G-4
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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Osádka, obsluha, sekce Element smaller than a section
CZE

••
2
Družstvo (1)

•••
3
Četa (1)

4 Rota (1)
Baterie artillery, air defense
I Roj aviation
5 Prapor (1)
Oddil artillery, air defense
II Letka aviation
6 Pluk (1)
Letecká skupina aviation
III
7 Brigáda (1)
Zakladna aviation

8
r Divize (1)

9
rr Armádni sbar (1)

10
rrr (2)

11
rrrr (2)

rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2) Non existent in the Czech army.

G-5
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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Trupp (1)
DEU

••
2 Gruppe (1)
Rotte army aviation

•••
3 Zug (1)
Schwarm army aviation

•••• Staffel echelon of command/control or support

elements
4 Kompanie (1)
Batterie artillery, army air defence
I Staffel army aviation, air force and navy
Boot navy
Inspektion military school
5 Bataillon (1)
Abteilung army aviation
II Bootsgeschwader, Schiff navy
Lehrgruppe military school
6 Regiment (1)
artillery, signal, army aviation, engineers, army
III air defence, air mobile infantry, medical, NBC
defence, logistics
Geschwader, Bereich air force
Schiffsgeschwader navy
7 Brigade (1)
logistics, armour, armoured infantry, airborne
r infantry, air mechanized, special forces, army
combat support
Einsatzflottille navy
8 Division (1)
armour, armoured infantry, special operations,
rr air mechanized
Wehrbereichskommando
9 Korps (1)
Kommando Operative Response Forces Operations Command
rrr Führung Eingreifkräfte
Kommando Operative air force
Führung Luftstreitkräfte
Flottenkommando navy
10 Armee (2)
Component Command (2)
rrrr Einsatzführungskommando Bundeswehr Operations Command
der Bundeswehr
TSK FüKdo und Ämter Single Service Commands & Departments
11 Armeegruppe (2)
Joint Force Command (2)
rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2) Non existent in the German Armed Forces.

G-6
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Gruppe (1)
DNK

••
2 Sektion (1)

•••
3 Deling (1)

4 Kompagni infantry, engineers, signals

Eskadron armour
I Batteri artillery
5 Bataljon (1)
II Afdeling artillery
Bataljons kampgruppe composite unit of mixed arms, mainly
infantry or armour with other arms added
6 Regiment peacetime training and administrative unit
III
7 Brigade (1)

r
8 Division (1)

rr
9 Korps (1)

rrr
10 Arme (2)

rrrr
11 Armegruppe (2)

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Danish Army.

G-7
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Escuadra/Equipo (1)
Patrulla army air ESP

••
2 Peloton

•••
3 Seccion

4 Compania (1)
Bateria artillery
I Escuadron armour
Subgrupo Tactico composite unit of mixed arms
5 Battallon (1)
Grupo artillery, cavalry, services
II Grupo Tactico composite unit of mixed arms
Regimiento (1)
6 Agrupacion Tactica composite unit of mixed arms
III
7 Brigada (1)

8
r Division (1)

9
rr Cuerpo deEjercito (1)

10
rrr Ejercito (2)

rrrr Grupo de Ejercito (2)

11

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Spanish army.

G-8
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

EST

•
1

••
2

•••
3

4
I
5
II
6
III
7

r
8

rr
9

rrr
10

rrrr
11

rrrrr
.

G-9
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Equipe (1)
Equipage personnel responsible for the FRA
operation of equipment

••
2 Groupe (1)
Patrouille reconnaissance

•••
3 Section (1)
Peloton armour and transportation units
4 Compagnie (1)
Batterie artillery
I Escadron armour and transportation units
Flight army aviation
5 Bataillon (1)
II Groupement (1) temporary unit
6 Regiment (1)
III
7 Brigade (1) logistic unit

r
8 Division (1)

rr
9 Corps d’Armée (1)

rrr
10 Armée (1)

rrrr
11 Groupe d’Armées (2)

rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the French army.

G - 10
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Section (1)
GBR

••
2 (2)

•••
3 Platoon (1)
Troop marines, armour, artillery, engineers,
signals, special air service, transport,
Flight army air, RAF Regiment
4 Company (1)
Squadron armour, engineers, signals, special air
I service, army air , transport, RAF Regiment
Battery
Combat group. Squadron
group, Coy/Sqn group
5 Battalion (1)
Regiment armour, artillery, engineers, signals,
II special air service, army air
Field Ambulance medical
Armoured or Field repair and recovery
workshop
Wing RAF Regiment
Battle group composite unit of mixed arms
Commando “marines”
6 (2)
III
7 Field force/Brigade (1)

8
r Division (1)

9
rr Corps (1)

10
rrr (2)

11
rrrr Army Group (1)

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the British army.

G - 11
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Hemi-Homas Infantry
Stoecheon Infantry, armour GRC

••
2 Homas Infantry, armour, engineers, signals
Stoecheon artillery

•••
3 Themoerea infantry, engineers, signals
Ulamos artillery, armor

4 Lochos infantry, engineers, signals

Pyrovolarchia artillery
I Ili armour
5 Taghma infantry, engineers, signals
II Mora artillery
Epilarchia armour
6 Stntagma infantry
III Theoekissis machis armour
Merarchiakon )
Pyrovolikon ) artillery
Homas Pyrovolikon )
Mahis )

7 Taxiarchia armour

r
8 Merarchia (1)

rr
9 Soma stratou (1)

rrr
10 Stratia (1)

rrrr
(2)
11
rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2) Nonexistent in the Greek army.

G - 12
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Résleg (1) It does not exist as an
Repűlő géppár organic unit. HUN

••
2 Kezelőszmélyzet (1) armour, infantry
Raj reconaissance

•••
3 Szakasz (1) armour, infantry, engineers, signals

4 Század (1) armour, infantry, signals, air

Űteg artillery air defence
I
5 Zászlóalj (1) armour, infantry, combat service support
Osztály artillery air defence
II
6 Ezred (1) radar, air
III

7 Dandár (1) infantry, logistics

8
r Hadosztály (2)

9
rr Hadtest (1)

10
rrr Hadsereg (2)

11
rrrr Hadseregcsoport (2)

rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2) Nonexistent in the Hungarian Defense Forces.

G - 13
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1
ISL

••
2

•••
3

4
I
5
II
6
III
7

r
8

rr
9

rrr
10

rrrr
11

rrrrr

G - 14
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Squadra (1)
Squadra pezzo artillery ITA
Equipaggio tank and cavalry

••
2 Pattuglia This formation is not an organic unit. A
comparable unit is organized on a case by case
basis in accordance with the task. The unit
strength may range from group 1 to 3.

•••
3 Plotone (1)
Sezione artillery, transport

4 Compagnia (1)
Squadrone cavalry, army aviation
I Batteria artillery
Autoreparto transport
Complesso minore combined arms company group
5 Battaglione (1) infantry, signal, engineers, logistic,
II transport
Gruppo artillery
Gruppo squaroni cavalry, army aviation
Autogruppo transport
Reparto combined arms battle group (battalion
level), headquarters units, medical
6 Reggimento (1) In the Italian Army the regiment is
III battalion sized.
Grouping of combat support units
Combined arms battle group
7 Brigata (1)

r
8 Divisione (1)
Comando Operativo divisional headquarters are called
rr Intermedio “Intermediate Operational Command”
Comando dei Supporti CS and CCS headquarters of the
delle Forze Operative Operational Land Forces Command
Terrestri
9 Corpo d’Armata (1)
Comando Operativo The “Intermediate Operational
rrr Intermedio Command”may be elevated to corps level.
Comando Forze Operative Operational Land Forces Command
Terrestri
10 Armata Applicable only time

rrrr
(1) Basic national designation.

G - 15
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

LTU

•
1

••
2

•••
3

4
I
5
II
6
III
7

r
8

rr
9

rrr
10

rrrr
11

rrrrr
.

G - 16
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Equipe (1)
LUX

••
2 Groupe (1)

•••
3 Section (1)

4 Compagnie (1)
I
5 Bataillon (1)
II
6 Regiment (2)
III
7 Brigade (2)

r
8 Division (2)

rr
9 Corps d’Armée (2)

rrr
10 Armée (2)

rrrr
11 Groupe d’Armée (2)

rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2Nonexistent in the Luxemburgian army.

G - 17
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

LVA

•
1

••
2

•••
3

4
I
5
II
6
III
7

r
8

rr
9

rrr
10

rrrr
11

rrrrr
.

G - 18
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Groep (1)
Ploeg services, cavalry NLD
(reconnaissance)
Stuk artillery, mortars with infantry
and cavalry

••
2 Detachement (1)
Groep cavalry,
Sectie artillery, armour

•••
3 Peloton (1)
Gevechtsbatterij anti aircraft artillery (except quad. 5 AAMG
unit, designation “peloton”)
Vlucht army aviation
4 Compagnie (1)
Eskadron cavalry, armour, military police
I Batterij artillery, anti aircraft artillery
Squadron army aviation
Bataljon (1)
5 Afdeling artillery, anti aircraft artillery
II Groep army aviation
Colonne civil defence
Commando services, indicates a non-organic formation
consisting of various group 3 and 4 units
6 Regiment exist only as a non-organic traditional grouping
of battalions of the same arm or branch
III Geniegevechtsgroep engineers
Groep (2)
(1)artillery ) indicates a non-organic
anti aircraft ) formation consisting of
artillery ) various group 4 and 5
units
signals )
services )
7 Brigade (1)
Legerkorps artillerie artillery
r Legerkorps logistiek services
commando
8 Divisie (1)

9
rr Legerkorps (1)

10
rrr Leger (3)

11
rrrr Legergroep (3)

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) always with the prefix of an arm, branch or service, e.. “intendance groep”
(3) non existent in the Royal Netherlands army.

G - 19
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Lag (1)
NOR

••
2 Gruppe (1)

•••
3 Tropp (1)

4 Kompani (1)
Eskadron armour, cavalry
I Batteri artillery
Stridsgruppe composite unit of mixed arms
Bataljon (1)
5 Stridsgruppe composite unit of mixed arms
II
6 Regiment administrative unit only
III
7 Brigade composite formation of mixed arms
Kombinert regiment (Brigade Size)

8
r Division (1)
Forsvarsdistrikt ) territorial organization
Landforsvar ) (“Land Defence”)

9
rr Korps (2)

10
rrr Forsvarskommando combined organization for all three services

rrrr Arme-gruppe (2)

11

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Norwegian army.

G - 20
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Element mniejszy niż drużyna It does not exist as an organic
unit and is structured each time POL
in view of a particular task.

••
2 Drużyna (1) infantry, reconnaissance, engineers, signals,
air mobile
Załoga armour
Działlon artillery

•••
3 Pluton (1)

4 Kompania (1)
Bateria artillery
I Swadron air cavalry
5 Batalion (1)
Dywizjon artillery
II
6 Pułk (1)
III
7 Brygada (1)

8
r Dywizja (1)

9
rr Korpus (1)

10
rrr (2)

11
rrrr (2)

rrrrr
(1) Basic national designation.
(2) Nonexistent in the Polish Army.

G - 21
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APP-6(B)

GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Esquadra (1)
PRT

••
2 Seccao (1)

•••
3 Pelotao (1)

4 Companhia (1)
Bateria artillery
I Esquadrao cavalry and armour
5 Batalhao (1)
Grupo cavalry, armour, artillery
II
6 Regimento (1)
III
7 Brigada (1)
Agrupamento special duties organization

8
r Divisao (1)

9
rr Corps de exército (1)

10
rrr Exército de campanha (2)

rrrr Grupo de exercitos (2)

11

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Portuguese army.

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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

ROU

•
1 Secţie

••
2 Echipă
Piesă artillery.

•••
3 Pluton
Secţie artillery
4 Companie
Baterie Artillery
I
5 Batalion
II Divizion artillery
6 Regiment
III
7 Brigadă

r
8 Divizie

rr
9 Corp de armată

rrr
10 Armată

rrrr
11

rrrrr
.

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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

SVK

•
1

••
2

•••
3

4
I
5
II
6
III
7

r
8

rr
9

rrr
10

rrrr
11

rrrrr
.

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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

SVN

•
1

••
2

•••
3

4
I
5
II
6
III
7

r
8

rr
9

rrr
10

rrrr
11

rrrrr
.

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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Manga (1)
TUR

••
2 Kisim (1)

•••
3 Takim (1)

4 Bölük (1)
Batarya artillery
I
5 Tabur (1)
II
6 Alay (muharebe grubu)
III
7 Tugay (1)

8
r Tümen (1)

9
rr Kolordu (1)

10
rrr Ordu (1)

11
rrrr Ordular grubu

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.
(2) non existent in the Turkish army.

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GROUP SYMBOL NATIONAL DESIGNATION REMARK COUNTRY

•
1 Squad (1)
USA

••
2 Section (1)

•••
3 Platoon (1)
Detachment Special Forces, Military Police

4 Company (1)
Battery artillery
I Troop armored cavalry, air cavalry
5 Battalion
Squadron armored cavalry, air cavalry
II
6 Regiment (1) armored cavalry
Group artillery, engineer, aviation, Special Forces,
III combat service support

7 Brigade (1)

8
r Division (1)

9
rr Corps (1)

10
rrr Numbered army may be established to control two or more
corps

11
rrrr Army group (1)

rrrrr
(1) basic national designation.

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Explanatory Notes
G0102.These group numbers should not be used outside the context of this STANAG.
They are not intended as definitions in themselves.
a) Group1. The smallest basic unit, part of a group 2 and/or group 3 unit.
Requires administrative and logistical support.
b) Group 2. A unit larger than a group 1 unit but smaller than an group 3 unit.
Requires administrative and logistical support.
c) Group 3. A unit designed to perform a tactical or support mission,
composed of two or more group 1 and/or group 2 units and normally
forming part of a group 4 unit. It is commanded by an OF-1/OF-2 or OR-
7/OR-8 (see STANAG 2116) and may or may not require administrative
support.
d) Group 4. A unit designed to be capable of administering itself if operating
independently and may be self-accounting. It is composed of two or more
group 3 units and is commanded by an OF-2 or 3 (see STANAG 2116). It is
normally part of a group 5 unit. It can be a composite group 4 unit of mixed
arms.
e) Group 5. A unit designed to be self-administering and self-accounting and
capable of operating independently. It is composed of two ore more group 4
units and is commanded by an OF-3 or 4 (see STANAG 2116). It can be
grouped with group 1, 2, 3 or 4 units of different arms to form a composite
group 5 unit of mixed arms.
f) Group 6. A unit of two or more group 5 units or group 4 units usually of
the same arm under a designated commander. Usually commanded by an
OF-4 or 5 or 6 (see STANAG 2116).
g) Group 7. A formation of two more combat arm group 5 units or group 6
units with group 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 units from supporting arms and services
normally commanded by an OF-5 or 6 (see STANAG 2116); it is smaller
than a group 8 formation.
h) Group 8. A major tactical and administrative formation which combines in
itself the necessary arms and services required for sustained combat, larger
than a group 7 formation and smaller than a group 9 formation. It is
normally commanded by an OF-7 (see STANAG 2116).
i) Group 9. A formation larger than a group 8 formation and smaller than a
group 10 formation which usually consists of two or more group 8
formations together with supporting arms and services. It is normally
commanded by OF-8 (see STANAG 2116).
j) Group 10. The largest tactical and administrative formation of armed
forces made up of a number of group 9 and group 8 formations.
k) Group 11. Several group 10 or group 9 formations under a designated joint
force commander.

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LEXICON
PART I – ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Part I contains abbreviations relevant to APP-6 and is not meant to be exhaustive. The
definitive and more comprehensive list of NATO agreed abbreviations is in AAP-15.

AA Assembly Area
AACOM Army Area Command
A/C Aircraft
AAM Air-to-Air Missile
AAWC Anti-air Warfare Commander
ACA Airspace Coordination Area
ACP Air Control Point
ADP Automated Data Processing
AEW Airborne Electronic Warfare
AEW Airborne Early Warning
AF Air Force
AGI Auxiliary Group Intelligence
AI Area of Interest
ALT Alternate
ANM Acoustic Noise Monitor
AOO Area of Operations
AP Anti-Personnel (Mine)
APC Armoured Personnel Carrier
APOD Airport of Debarkation
APOE Airport of Embarkation
APP Allied Procedural Publication
ASM Anti-ship Missile
ASP Ammunition Supply Point
ASR Alternate Supply Route
ASUW Antisurface Warfare
ASW Antisubmarine Warfare
AI Area of Interest
ALT Alternate
ANM Acoustic Noise Monitor
AOO Area of Operations
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AP Anti-Personnel (Mine)
BSA Brigade Support Area
BT Bathythermograph
C/S/A CINC, Service, and Agency
C2 Command and Control
C3I Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence
C4I Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and
Intelligence
CAP Combat Air Patrol
CARP Computed Air Release Point
CAS Close Air Support
CASS Command Activated Sonobuoy System
CATK Counterattack
CBT Combat/Combatant
CBRN Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear
CCP Casualty Collection Point
CCP Communications Check Point
CFA Covering Force Area
CFL Coordinated Fire Line
CGM Computer Graphics Metafile
CID Criminal Investigation Division
CIE Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage
CINC Commander in Chief
CL Coordination Line
COLT Combat Observation and Lasing Team
COMMZ Communications Zone
CP Check Point
CSAR Combat Search and Rescue
DCA Defensive Counter Air
DCN Decontamination
DET Detainee(s)
DGZ Desired Ground Zero
DICASS Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System
DIFAR Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording
DLIC Detachment Left-in-Contact

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DLRP Data Link Reference Point

DRPR Drawing Practices
DSA Division Support Area
DTG Date-Time Group
DZ Drop Zone
EA Engagement Area
EA Electronic Attack
EC Electronic Combat
EO Electro-optics
ENY Enemy
EP Electronic Protection
EPW Enemy Prisoner of War
ERP Engineer Regulating Point
ESM Electronic Warfare Support Measures
EW Electronic Warfare
EZ Extraction Zone
F/W Fixed Wing
FAADEZ Forward Area Air Defence Zone
FARP Forward Arming and Refuelling Point
FAC Forward Air Controller
FC Fire Control
FCZ Forward Combat Zone
FEBA Forward Edge of the Battle Area
FFA Free Fire Area
FLB Forward Logistics Base
FLET Forward Line of Enemy Troops
FLOT Forward Line of Own Troops
FM Field Manual
FO Frame Optional
FSA Fire Support Area
FSCL Fire Support Coordination Line
FSS Fire Support Station
GPS Global Positioning System
GSD Graphical Situation Display
GZ Ground Zero
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HCI Human Computer Interface

HF Human Factors
HIDACZ High-Density Airspace Control Zone
HIMEZ High Altitude Missile Engagement Zone
HL Holding Line
H/MAD High/Medium Altitude Air Defence
ICBM Intercontinental Ballistic Missile
IFF Identification, Friend or Foe
IFV Infantry Fighting Vehicle
INST Information Standards and Technology
IP Initial Point
IRBM Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile
ISB Intermediate Staging Base
JSEAD Joint Suppression of Enemy Air Defences
LAB Logistics Assault Base
LC Line of Contact
LCCP Large Communication Configured Package
LD Line of Departure
LLLTV Low-Light Level Television
LLTR Low-Level Transit Route
LOA Limit of Advance
LOC Lines of Communications
LOFAR Low Frequency Analysis and Recording
LOMEZ Low Altitude Missile Engagement Zone
LOTS Logistics Over-The-Shore
LP Linkup Point
LRP Logistics Release Point
LRS Long Range Surveillance
LZ Landing Zone
MAGTF Marine Air-Ground Task Force
MBA Main Battle Area
MC&G Mapping, Charting, and Geodesy
MCM Mine Countermeasures
MCP Maintenance Collection Point
MEDEVAC Medical Evacuation
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MEZ Missile Engagement Zone

MICV Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle
MP Military Police
MPA Maritime Patrol Aircraft
MRR Minimum-Risk Route
MSD Minimum Safe Distance
MSR Main Supply Route
MTF Medical Treatment Facility
NAI Named Area of Interest
NATO North Atlantic Treaty Organization
NFA No-Fire Area
NFL No-Fire Line
NOTAM Notice to Airmen
NTDS Naval Tactical Data Processing System
OBJ Objective
OP Observation Point; Observation Post
PAA Position Area for Artillery
PDF Principal Direction of Fire
PIM Position and Intended Movement
PKT Picket
PLD Probable Line of Deployment
POD Port of Debarkation
POE Port of Embarkation
PP Passage Point
PS Personnel Services
PUP Pop-up Point
PZ Pickup Zone
R3P Rearm, Refuel, and Re-supply Point
RA Rest Area
RAA Rear Assembly Area
RAOC Rear Area Operation Centre
RAS Replenishment at Sea
RCZ Rear Combat Zone
RES Reserve
RFA Restricted Fire Area
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RFL Restrictive Fire Line

RGB Red, Green, Blue
RIP Relief in Place
RL Report Line
RL Release Line
RLY Rally (Point)
RO Range Only
ROM Refuel on the Move
RO/RO Roll-on/Roll-Off
ROZ Restricted Operations Zone
RP Release Point
RPV Remotely Piloted Vehicle
RSA Regimental Support Area
RSC Rescue (Station)
RV Re-entry Vehicle
S/SSM Surface-to-Subsurface Missile
SA Staging Area
SAAFR Standard use Army Aircraft Flight Route
SAM Surface-to-Air Missile
SAR Search and Rescue
SFOB Special Forces Operations Base
SIF Selective Identification Feature
SIGINT Signals Intelligence
SL Start Line
SLBM Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile
SOF Special Operations Forces
SP Starting Point
SP Self-Propelled
SPOD Seaport of Debarkation
SPOE Seaport of Embarkation
SSM Surface-to-Surface (Guided) Missile
STANAG NATO Standardization Agreement
SUB Submarine
SWG Symbology Working Group
SWG Surface Warfare Group
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TAA Target Acquisition Area

TACP Tactical Air Control Party
TAI Target Area of Interest
TCP Traffic Control Post
TF Task Force
TGT Target
TOT Time on Target
TTP Trailer Transfer Point
TV Television
TWS Track While Scan
UAV Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
UF Unframed
UMCP Unit Maintenance Collection Point
UWT Under Water Telephone
UWTG Under Water Tug
UXO Unexploded Ordnance
VLAD Vertical Line Array Difar
V/STOL Vertical/ Short Take Off and Landing
WFZ Weapons Free Zone
WMO World Meteorological Organization

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PART II - TERMS AND DEFINITIONS

Assumed friend
A track or contact which is assumed to be a friend because of its characteristics, behaviour,
or origin. (STANAG 1241)

Attribute
A distinctive feature or characteristic such as line, shape, colour, texture (fill), edge, mass,
and value.

Battlespace
The total, fluid, dynamic environment within which mission-derived operational objectives
are pursued.

Chromaticity
The aspect of colour including the consideration of its dominant wavelength and purity.

Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage (CIE)

A colour space chart widely used to describe the range of colour seen by the human eye.

Contact
Any discrete airborne, surface or subsurface object detected by electronic, acoustic, and/or
visual sensors. (AAP-6)

Engagement domain
An environment that primarily is based on the command and control of weapons systems
and designed to facilitate rapid identification and judgment based on the need to engage or
not to engage.

Engineering design symbology

Symbology used to design, plan, and develop engineering drawings in the chemical,
electrical, civil, mechanical, and structural engineering fields.

Faker
A friendly aircraft simulating a hostile in an air defence exercise. (STANAG 1241)

Fields
A defined area in which a limited combination of alphanumeric and other characters,
indicators, and/or abbreviations are grouped/situated in an established way around a
symbol/icon, line, area, point, or boundary and used for the purpose of providing additional
information about the associated object or battlespace geometry.

Footcandle
The unit of measure of illumination. The amount of light emitted by a standard candle
measured one foot away from the candle.

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Footlambert
The unit of measure of intensity of reflected or emitted light (luminance). The average
luminescence of any reflecting surface in footlamberts is the product of the illumination in
footcandles by the luminous reflectance of the surface.

Force domain
An environment that is primarily based on the command and control (management of the
battlespace) of units and forces.

Frame
The geometric border of a symbol that provides an indication of the affiliation, battle
dimension, and status of a operational object.

Friend
In identification, the designation given to a track, object or entity belonging to a declared,
presumed or recognized friendly nation, faction or group. (AAP-6)

Graphic
All products of the cartographic and photogrammetric art.

Hostile
In identification, the designation given to a track, object or entity whose characteristics,
behaviour or origin indicate that it is a threat to friendly forces. Designation as hostile does
not necessarily imply clearance to engage. (AAP-6)

Icon
The innermost part of a symbol that provides a graphic representation of a operational
object.

Indicator
One of several specific graphical additions to a symbol used to provide additional
information pictorially vice textually.

Interoperability
The ability of systems, units, or forces to provide services to and accept services from
other systems, units, or forces and to use the services so exchanged to enable them to
operate effectively together. (AAP-6)

Joker
A friendly track or contact acting as a "suspect" track for exercise purposes only.
(STANAG 1241)

Kilo
A friendly track of specific interest. (STANAG 1241)

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Mapping, Charting, & Geodesy (MC&G) Symbology

Symbology that represents natural and man-made features used in the production or
display of maps, charts, and digital geospatial information.

Meteorological symbology
Symbology used in weather/climatic forecasting.

Modifier
Optional text or graphics that provide additional information about a symbol or tactical
graphic.

Neutral
In identification, the designation given to a track, object or entity whose characteristics,
behaviour, origin or nationality indicate that it is neither supporting nor opposing friendly
forces. (AAP-6)

Pending
A track or contact for which identification is to be determined. (STANAG 1241)

Present
Now existing or in progress.

Signals Intelligence (SIGINT)

1. A category of intelligence comprising either individually or in combination all
communications intelligence, electronics intelligence, and foreign instrumentation
signals intelligence, however transmitted.
2. Intelligence derived from communications, electronics, and foreign instrumentation
signals.

Status
A determination or declaration as to whether a track's or object's location or battlefield
environment is existing/present or is planned/anticipated at the time that the symbology
was generated or the time associated/presented with the symbology itself.

Suspect
A track or contact which is potentially hostile because of its characteristics, behavior,
origin, or nationality. (STANAG 1241)

Symbol
An object that presents information.

Symbol ID code
An alphanumeric code based on a database structure that is used in some display systems
to provide the minimum elements required to construct the basic icon and/or a complete
symbol.

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Text
Words, alphanumeric information, and other ASCII characters used to define or further
designate the meaning of a symbol.

Track
A series of related contacts displayed on a plotting board. The actual path of an aircraft
above, or a ship on, the surface of the earth.

Traveller
A suspect surface track following a recognised traffic route. (STANAG 1241)

Unknown
1. A code meaning information not available.
2. An unidentified target. An evaluated track or contact which has not been
identified. (STANAG 1241)

Zombie
A suspect air track conforming to ATC rules or NATO airspace following a recognised
traffic pattern. (STANAG 1241)

Operational symbology
Symbology used to plan and execute military operations in support of C4I functions.

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(INTENTIONALLY BALNK)

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REFERENCE PUBLICATIONS
AAP-6 NATO Glossary of Terms and Definitions
AAP-15 NATO Glossary of Abbreviations Used in NATO Documents and
Publications

AJP-01 Allied Joint Doctrine

AJP-2 Allied Joint Intelligence, Counter-Intelligence and Security Doctrine
AJP-2.1 Doctrine for Intelligence Procedures
AJP-3 Allied Doctrine for Joint Operations
AJP-3.1 Allied Joint Maritime Operations
AJP-3.3 Joint Air and Space Operations Doctrine
AJP-3.4.1 Peace Support Operations
AJP-4 Allied Joint Logistic Doctrine
AJP-5 Allied Joint Doctrine for Operational Planning
AJP-9 NATO Civil-Military Co-operation (CIMIC) Doctrine

STANAG 1059 Letter Codes for Geographical Entities

STANAG 1166 Standard Ship Designator System
STANAG 1241 NATO Standard Identity Description Structure for Tactical Use
STANAG 2511 Intelligence Reports
STANAG 2220 Information/Intelligence Exchange on Irregular Forces
STANAG 2460 Functional (Category) Codes for the Classification of Places and
Installation and Facilities
STANAG 2961 Classes of Supply of NATO Land Forces

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