Military DefinitionsP-day. That point in time at which the rate of production of an item available for military consumption equals the rate at which the item is required by the armed forces.
pace. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) For ground forces, the speed of a column or element regulated to maintain a prescribed average speed.
pace setter. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) An individual, selected by the column commander, who travels in the lead vehicle or element to regulate the column speed and establish the pace necessary to meet the required movement order.
Pacer Coin. Surveillance version of the C-130.
Pacer Link. Boeing EC-135, ABNCP aircraft
Pacer Power. Boeing EC-135
Pacer Six. Conversion of F-106 fighters to target drones.
Pacer Speckled Trout. Boeing NC-135B avionics testbed
packaged forces. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Forces of varying size and composition preselected for specific missions in order to facilitate planning and training.
packaged petroleum product. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A petroleum product (generally a lubricant, oil, grease, or specialty item) normally packaged by a manufacturer and procured, stored, transported, and issued in containers having a fill capacity of 55 United States gallons (or 45 Imperial gallons, or 205 liters) or less.
packaging. [DSMC] The process and procedures used to protect material. It includes cleaning, drying, preserving, packaging, marking, and utilization.
Packard Commission. [DSMC] The President's Blue Ribbon Commission on Defense Management, 1986. They made a number of significant recommendations on reorganizing the Joint Chiefs of Staff, defense command structure, and defense acquisition process. Many of these were enacted into law or instituted within DoD.
packing, handling, storage, and transportation. [DSMC] The resources, processes, procedures, design considerations, and methods to ensure all system, equipment, and support items are preserved, packaged, handled, and transported properly. This includes environmental considerations, equipment preservation requirements for short-and long-term storage, and transportability. One of the traditional logistic support elements.
packup kit. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Service-provided maintenance gear including spare parts and consumables most commonly needed by the deployed helicopter detachment. Supplies are sufficient for a short-term deployment but do not include all material needed for every maintenance task.
padding. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Extraneous text added to a message for the purpose of concealing its beginning, ending, or length.
pallet. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A flat base for combining stores or carrying a single item to form a unit load for handling, transportation, and storage by materials handling equipment.
palletized load system (PLS). [JP 1-02] (DoD) A truck with hydraulic load handling mechanism, trailer and flatrack system capable of self-loading and -unloading. Truck and companion trailer have a 16.5 ton payload capacity. See also flatrack.
palletized load system flatrack. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Topless, sideless container component of palletized load system, some of which conform to International Organization for Standardization specifications. See also palletized load system.
palletized unit load. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) Quantity of any item, packaged or unpackaged, which is arranged on a pallet in a specified manner and securely strapped or fastened thereto so that the whole is handled as a unit.
pan. 1To move the camera horizontally to give a panoramic effect or follow a moving object. 2[JP 1-02] (DoD) In air intercept, a code meaning the calling station has a very urgent message to transmit concerning the safety of a ship, aircraft, or other vehicle, or of some person on board or within sight.
pancake. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In air intercept, a code meaning, "Land," or, "I wish to land" (reason may be specified; e.g., "pancake ammo," "pancake fuel").
panel code. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A prearranged code designed for visual communications, usually between friendly units, by making use of marking panels. See also marking panel.
panoramic camera. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l In aerial photography, a camera which, through a system of moving optics or mirrors, scans a wide area of the terrain, usually from horizon to horizon. The camera may be mounted vertically or obliquely within the aircraft, to scan across or along the line of flight.
l In ground photography, a camera which photographs a wide expanse of terrain by rotating horizontally about the vertical axis through the center of the camera lens.
paper validation. The process of stepping through the interactive courseware using storyboards/scripts on the actual delivery system.
parachute deployment height. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The height above the intended impact point at which the parachute or parachutes are fully deployed.
paradrop. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) Delivery by parachute of personnel or cargo from an aircraft in flight.
Parafrag. Fragmentation bomb, carried down by a parachute and fused to explode in mid-air.
parallactic angle. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) Angle formed by the optical axes of two instruments, for example, a telescope and its view finder seeing the same object. See also angle of convergence.
parallax difference. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The difference in displacement of the top of an object in relation to its base, as measured on the two images of the object on a stereo pair of photographs.
parallel chains of command. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In amphibious operations, a parallel system of command, responding to the interrelationship of Navy, landing force, Air Force, and other major forces assigned, wherein corresponding commanders are established at each subordinate level of all components to facilitate coordinated planning for, and execution of, the amphibious operation.
parallel classification. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In railway terminology, the classification of ordinary transport military vehicles and equipment, based on a comparative study of the main characteristics of those vehicles and equipment and of those of the ordinary flat wagons of a corresponding category onto which they can be loaded.
parallel sheaf. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In artillery and naval gunfire support, a sheaf in which the planes (lines) of fire of all pieces are parallel. See also converged sheaf; open sheaf; sheaf; special sheaf.
parallel staff. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A staff in which one officer from each nation, or service, working in parallel is appointed to each post. See also combined staff; integrated staff; joint staff.
parameter. [DSMC] A determining factor or characteristic. Usually related to performance in developing a system.
parametric cost estimate. [DSMC] A cost estimating methodology using statistical relationships between historical costs and other program variables such as system physical or performance characteristics, contractor output measures, manpower loading, etc. Also referred to as a top-down approach.
paramilitary forces. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Forces or groups which are distinct from the regular armed forces of any country, but resembling them in organization, equipment, training, or mission.
paraphrase. [JP 1-02] (DoD) To change the phraseology of a message without changing its meaning.
pararescue team. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Specially trained personnel qualified to penetrate to the site of an incident by land or parachute, render medical aid, accomplish survival methods, and rescue survivors.
Parkhill. HF COMSEC equipment
parlimentaire. [JP 1-02] (DoD) An agent employed by a commander of belligerent forces in the field to go in person within the enemy lines for the purpose of communicating or negotiating openly and directly with the enemy commander.
parrot. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Identification friend or foe transponder equipment.
part number. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A combination of numbers, letters, and symbols assigned by a designer, a manufacturer, or vendor to identify a specific part or item of materiel.
part-task trainer (PTT). A device that permits selected aspects of a task to be practiced independently of other elements of the task.
part-task training. Subordinate skills training (operations/procedures) that resembles portions, or subtasks, and response of the actual system operation. A type of two-dimensional simulation.
part-time training. Participation by personnel in training programs that occupy a part of the normal duty period, or are available outside the normal duty period, for participation on a basis less than would be expected of a full-time student.
partial mission capable (PMC). [JP 1-02] (DoD) Material condition of an aircraft or training device indicating that it can perform at least one but not all of its missions. See also full mission capable; mission capable; partial mission capable, maintenance; partial mission capable, supply.
partial mission capable, maintenance (PMCM). [JP 1-02] (DoD) Material condition of a system or training device indicating that it can perform at least one but not all of its missions because of maintenance requirements existing on the inoperable subsystem(s). See also full mission capable; mission capable; partial mission capable; partial mission capable, supply.
partial mission capable, supply (PMCS). [JP 1-02] (DoD) Material condition of a system or training device indicating it can perform at least one but not all of its missions because maintenance required to clear the discrepancy cannot continue due to a supply shortage. See also full mission capable; mission capable; partial mission capable; partial mission capable, maintenance.
partial mobilization. See mobilization.
partial storage monitoring. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A periodic inspection of major assemblies or components for nuclear weapons, consisting mainly of external observation of humidity, temperatures, and visual damage or deterioration during storage. This type of inspection is also conducted prior to and upon completion of a movement.
participants in defense acquisition. [DSMC] The three major participants (players) in defense acquisition are the Executive and Legislative branches of the federal government, and defense industry.
participating service. [DSMC] A military Service that supports the lead service in the development of a joint acquisition program by its contribution of personnel and/or funds.
partisan warfare. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Not to be used. See guerrilla warfare.
pass. [JP 1-02] (DoD)
l A short tactical run or dive by an aircraft at a target.
l A single sweep through or within firing range of an enemy air formation.
pass time. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In road transport, the time that elapses between the moment when the leading vehicle of a column passes a given point and the moment when the last vehicle passes the same point.
passage of lines. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) An operation in which a force moves forward or rearward through another force's combat positions with the intention of moving into or out of contact with the enemy.
passenger mile. [JP 1-02] (DoD) One passenger transported one mile. For air and ocean transport, use nautical miles; for rail, highway, and inland waterway transport in the Continental United States, use statute miles.
passive. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In surveillance, an adjective applied to actions or equipments which emit no energy capable of being detected.
passive air defense. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) All measures, other than active air defense, taken to minimize the effectiveness of hostile air action. These measures include deception, dispersion, and the use of protective construction. See also air defense.
passive communications satellite. See communications satellite.
passive defense. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Measures taken to reduce the probability of and to minimize the effects of damage caused by hostile action without the intention of taking the initiative. See also active defense.
passive homing guidance. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A system of homing guidance wherein the receiver in the missile utilizes radiation from the target. See also guidance.
passive learning. Learning where no feedback is provided to a user's response.
passive mine. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l A mine whose anticountermining device has been operated preventing the firing mechanism from being actuated. The mine will usually remain passive for a comparatively short time.
l A mine which does not emit a signal to detect the presence of a target.
See also active mine.
passive or responsive public affairs policy. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A responsive posture by which no direct effort is made to initiate, or participate in, the public discussion about an issue or activity. When a passive policy is in effect, authorities must be prepared to respond to news media inquiries about the issue or activity - to make brief statements to avoid confusion, speculation, misunderstanding or false information that may prevail if news media queries go unanswered. See also public affairs.
password. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A secret word or distinctive sound used to reply to a challenge. See also challenge; countersign; reply.
pathfinder drop zone control. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The communication and operation center from which pathfinders exercise aircraft guidance.
pathfinder landing zone control. See pathfinder drop zone control.
pathfinders. [JP 1-02] (DoD)
l Experienced aircraft crews who lead a formation to the drop zone, release point, or target.
l Teams dropped or air landed at an objective to establish and operate navigational aids for the purpose of guiding aircraft to drop and landing zones.
l A radar device used for navigating or homing to an objective when visibility precludes accurate visual navigation.
l Teams air delivered into enemy territory for the purpose of determining the best approach and withdrawal lanes, landing zones, and sites for helicopterborne forces.
patient. JP 1-02] (DoD) A sick, injured, wounded, or other person requiring medical/dental care or treatment.
patrol. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A detachment of ground, sea, or air forces sent out for the purpose of gathering information or carrying out a destructive, harassing, mopping-up, or security mission. See also combat air patrol; reconnaissance patrol.
pattern bombing. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The systematic covering of a target area with bombs uniformly distributed according to a plan.
pattern laying. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In land mine warfare, the laying of mines in a fixed relationship to each other.
patterns. Stereotyped actions which so habitually occur in a given set of circumstances that they cue an observer, well in advance, to either the type of military unit or activity, its identity, capabilities, or intent. Stereotyping occurs in a variety of ways, such as communications deployment techniques or historical association. Patterns must be unique and detectable to be of military significance.
Pave Aegis. The Lockheed AC-130 carrying a 105mm cannon.
Pave Claw. The GPU-5/A 30mm gun pod. The gun is the GAU-13/A, a four-barreled version of the GAU-8 Avenger of the A-10.
Pave Gat. Martin B-57G night attack aircraft equipped with a triple-barrel 20mm gun.
Pave Hawk. The MH-60G rescue helicopter.
Pave Knife. Guidance pod for laser-guided bombs, AN/AVQ-10.
Pave Light. AN/AVQ-9 laser designator.
Pave Low. The MH-53J helicopter.
Pave Mover. A side-looking radar for targeting missiles to enemy forces.
Pave Nail. Modification of the OV-10 for night precision attacks.
Pave Onyx. Tactical electronic reconnaissance sensor. Litton AN/ALQ-125 Terec.
Pave Pat II. BLU-76 Fuel-Air Explosive submunition bomb.
Pave Paws. Phased array radar, to be installed on the coastline of the USA as a early warning system for missiles launched by submarines.
Pave Penny. Laser designation system for missiles, also known as TISL.
Pave Phantom. Modification of the F-4D Phantom II with AN/ARN-92 LORAN navigation equipment. Phantoms equipped with this were primarily used for the dropping of sensors.
Pave Pronto. AC-130A gunship.
Pave Spike. AN/AVQ-23 or AN/ASQ-152(V) laser designation system.
Pave Storm. KMU-421/B guidance unit, a member of the Paveway family. Fitted to cluster bombs.
Pave Strike. Defense suppression program.
Pave Sword. AN/AVQ-11 precision attack sensor. A modified AIM-9 seeker head, used to track the targets designated by the AN/AVQ-12 Pave Spot laser designator.
Pave Tack. Precision bombing system with laser designation, AN/AVQ-26.
Paveway. Family of guided bombs.
payload. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l The sum of the weight of passengers and cargo that an aircraft can carry. See also load.
l The warhead, its container, and activating devices in a military missile.
l The satellite or research vehicle of a space probe or research missile.
l The load (expressed in tons of cargo or equipment, gallons of liquid, or number of passengers) which the vehicle is designed to transport under specified conditions of operation, in addition to its unladen weight.
payload (missile). See payload, sense 2.
payload build-up (missile and space). [JP 1-02] (DoD) The process by which the scientific instrumentation (sensors, detectors, etc.) and necessary mechanical and electronic subassemblies are assembled into a complete operational package capable of achieving the scientific objectives of the mission.
payload integration (missile and space). [JP 1-02] (DoD) The compatible installation of a complete payload package into the spacecraft and space vehicle.
peace building. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Post-conflict actions, predominately diplomatic and economic, that strengthen and rebuild governmental infrastructure and institutions in order to avoid a relapse into conflict. See also peace enforcement; peacekeeping; peacemaking; peace operations.
peace enforcement (PE). [JP 1-02] (DoD) Application of military force, or the threat of its use, normally pursuant to international authorization, to compel compliance with resolutions or sanctions designed to maintain or restore peace and order. See also peace building; peace operations; peacekeeping; peacemaking.
peace operations (PO). [JP 1-02] (DoD) A broad term that encompasses peacekeeping operations and peace enforcement operations conducted in support of diplomatic efforts to establish and maintain peace. See also peace building; peace enforcement; peacekeeping; peacemaking.
peacekeeping (PK). [JP 1-02] (DoD) Military operations undertaken with the consent of all major parties to a dispute, designed to monitor and facilitate implementation of an agreement (ceasefire, truce, or other such agreement) and support diplomatic efforts to reach a long-term political settlement. See also peace building; peace enforcement; peace operations; peacemaking.
peacemaking. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The process of diplomacy, mediation, negotiation, or other forms of peaceful settlements that arranges an end to a dispute, and resolves issues that led to it. See also peace building; peace enforcement; peacekeeping; peace operations.
peacetime. The period when the United States influences world events through actions that routinely occur between nations.
peacetime competition. This is a state wherein political, economic, informational, and military measures, short of combat operations or active support to warring parties, are employed to achieve national objectives. Within this state, U.S. forces may conduct joint training exercises to demonstrate resolve; conduct peacekeeping operations; participate in nation-building activities; conduct disaster relief and humanitarian assistance; provide security assistance to friends and allies; or execute shows of force.
peacetime force materiel assets. [JP 1-02] (DoD) That portion of total materiel assets which is designated to meet the peacetime force materiel requirement. See also war reserves.
peacetime force materiel requirement. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The quantity of an item required to equip, provide a materiel pipeline, and sustain the United States Force Structure (Active and Reserve) and those allied forces designated for United States peacetime support in current Secretary of Defense guidance, including approved supply support arrangements with foreign military sales countries, and support the scheduled establishment through normal appropriation and procurement lead-time periods.
peacetime materiel consumption and losses. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The quantity of an item consumed, lost, or worn-out beyond economical repair through normal appropriation and procurement lead-time periods.
peak overpressure. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The maximum value of overpressure at a given location which is generally experienced at the instant the shock (or blast) wave reaches that location. See also shock wave.
pecuniary liability. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A personal, joint, or corporate monetary obligation to make good any lost, damaged, or destroyed property resulting from fault or neglect. It may also result under conditions stipulated in a contract or bond.
peer training. [TR 350-70] A form of instruction in which students at the same or more advanced level of knowledge instruct other students at the same or lower level of knowledge on the specific objectives. Peer tutors are not faculty.
pencil beam. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A searchlight beam reduced to, or set at, its minimum width.
penetration. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In land operations, a form of offensive which seeks to break through the enemy's defense and disrupt the defensive system.
penetration (air traffic control). [JP 1-02] (DoD) That portion of a published high altitude instrument approach procedure which prescribes a descent path from the fix on which the procedure is based to a fix or altitude from which an approach to the airport is made.
penetration (intelligence). [JP 1-02] (DoD) The recruitment of agents within or the infiltration of agents or technical monitoring devices in an organization or group for the purpose of acquiring information or of influencing its activities.
penetration aids. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Techniques and/or devices employed by offensive aerospace weapon systems to increase the probability of penetration of enemy defenses.
perceived instructional problem. The report or action that causes the conduct of a needs analysis. The report may be formal or informal. Also called triggering circumstance.
percentage clearance. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In mine warfare, the estimated percentage of mines of specified characteristics which have been cleared from an area or channel.
perception management. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Actions to convey and/or deny selected information and indicators to foreign audiences to influence their emotions, motives, and objective reasoning; and to intelligence systems and leaders at all levels to influence official estimates, ultimately resulting in foreign behaviors and official actions favorable to the originator's objectives. In various ways, perception management combines truth projection, operations security, cover and deception, and psychological operations. See also psychological operations.
performance. 1Those operational and support characteristics of the system that allow it to effectively and efficiently perform its assigned mission over time. The support characteristics of the system include such supportability aspects of the design and the support elements necessary for system operation. 2Part of a criterion objective that describes the observable student behavior (or the product of that behavior) that is acceptable to the instructor as proof that learning has occurred.
performance checklist. [TR 350-70] The breakdown of a learning objective into elements that must be correctly performed to determine whether each student satisfactorily meets the performance standards described in the learning objective.
performance criteria/standard. Part of a learning objective that describes the observable student behavior (or the product of that behavior) that is acceptable as proof that learning has occurred.
performance deficiency. [TR 350-70] The inability of a unit or individual to perform required tasks to the established standard.
performance evaluation. [TR 350-70] A process of data collection and analysis to determine the success of students on learning to perform a specific learning objective, individual, or collective task to the established standard as a result of a training program.
performance evaluation tools. Competency tests that allow the trainer to profile the student's proficiency and identify weak areas so that training can be efficiently planned for the areas of most critical need.
performance exercise. A proficiency (criterion- referenced) test used to evaluate mastery of a task as specified by the criterion-referenced objective.
performance gap. The delta between desired and actual performance
performance measures. [TR 350-70] The actions that can be objectively observed and measured to determine if a task performer has performed the task to the prescribed standard. These measures are derived from the task performance steps during task analysis. See task performance specifications.
performance objective. A precise statement of the performance expected of a student as the result of instruction, expressed in terms of the standards to which it will be performed or demonstrated. See learning objective.
performance measurement baseline (PMB). [DSMC] The time-phased budget plan against which contract performance is measured. It is formed by the budgets assigned to scheduled cost accounts and the applicable indirect budgets. It equals the total allocated budget less management reserve.
performance oriented training. [TR 350-70] Training in which learning is accomplished through performance or the actual doing of the tasks or supporting learning objectives under specific conditions until an established standard is met.
performance requirements. The identification of the separate acts that are required to satisfactorily complete an individual's performance on the job. It includes the act (behavior), the conditions under which the behavior is performed and the standard of performance required by the incumbent.
performance specification. [TR 350-70] A statement of requirements, in terms of the required results with criteria for verifying compliance, without stating the methods for achieving the required results. A performance specification defines the functional requirements for the item, the environment in which it must operate, and interface and interchangeability characteristics.
performance specifications. What is required or the item’s form, fit, or function.
performance step. [TR 350-70] A single discrete operation, movement, or action that comprises part of a task.
performance test. [TR 350-70] A test of actual performance of an established criteria, such as a lesson learning objective, to determine if a student can perform the action under the prescribed conditions, to the established absolute standards. Example: Replace the gas mask canister on your M40-series protective mask.
performance-based instruction. [TR 350-70] Instruction which develops student performance proficiency via task-based learning objectives written with an action verb. Students prove competency by actual performance of the objectives to the established standards.
performance-based test. [TR 350-70] A test to determine if a student can perform the learning objective (the criterion) to the established standard without demonstrating actual performance. Also called performance-oriented or simulated performance testing. Example: Based on simulated operational conditions, place the correct unit symbols in the proper location on a map overlay. See performance test.
performance-oriented training. Training in which learning is accomplished through performance of the tasks or supporting learning objectives under specific conditions until an established standard is met.
performance-supervision phase. A phase of the demonstration-performance teaching method during which students practice the skill to be learned under the supervision of the instructor.
perimeter defense. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A defense without an exposed flank, consisting of forces deployed along the perimeter of the defended area.
periodic intelligence summary (PERINTSUM). [JP 1-02] (DoD) A report of the intelligence situation in a tactical operation, normally produced at corps level or its equivalent, and higher, usually at intervals of 24 hours, or as directed by the commander.
peripheral war.[JP 1-02] (DoD) Not to be used. See limited war.
perishable cargo. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Cargo requiring refrigeration, such as meat, fruit, fresh vegetables, and medical department biologicals. See also cargo.
perishable target. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A force or activity at a specific location whose value as a target can decrease substantially during a specified time. A significant decrease in value occurs when the target moves or the operational circumstances change to the extent that the target is no longer lucrative. See also target.
permafrost. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Permanently frozen subsoil.
permanent echo. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) Any dense and fixed radar return caused by reflection of energy from the Earth's surface. Distinguished from ground clutter by being from definable locations rather than large areas.
permissive action link. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A device included in or attached to a nuclear weapon system to preclude arming and/or launching until the insertion of a prescribed discrete code or combination. It may include equipment and cabling external to the weapon or weapon system to activate components within the weapon or weapon system.
permissive environment. See operational environment.
perse erate. Continue an activity until it is completed, regardless of the difficulty, or the appropriateness of the solution technique to the problem.
Pershing. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A mobile surface-to-surface inertially guided missile of a solid propellant type. It possesses a nuclear warhead capability and is designed to support the ground forces with the attack of long range ground targets. Designated as MGM-31A.
persistency. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In biological or chemical warfare, the characteristic of an agent which pertains to the duration of its effectiveness under determined conditions after its dispersal.
persistent agent. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A chemical agent that when released remains able to cause casualties for more than 24 hours to several days or weeks.
Person Authorized to Direct Disposition of Remains. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A person, usually primary next of kin, who is authorized to direct disposition of remains. See also mortuary affairs.
person eligible to receive effects. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The person authorized by law to receive the personal effects of a deceased military member. Receipt of personal effects does not constitute ownership. See also mortuary affairs; personal effects.
personal effects. [JP 1-02] (DoD) All privately owned moveable, personal property of an individual. See also mortuary affairs; personal property.
personal locator beacon. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) An emergency radio locator beacon with a two-way speech facility carried by crew members, either on their person or in their survival equipment, and capable of providing homing signals to assist search and rescue operations. See also crash locator beacon; emergency locator beacon.
personal performance standards. The specific behaviors that must be exhibited as the minimum acceptable by personnel in specified billets, jobs, or tasks, under specified conditions, in order that the unit to which personnel are assigned may (if all other functional entities perform to standards) achieve its identified purpose.
personal property. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Property of any kind or any interest therein, except real property, records of the Federal Government, and naval vessels of the following categories: surface combatants, support ships, and submarines.
personnel. 1Personnel is a term used to describe the characteristics of an individual soldier or civilian (as opposed to a manpower space). Personnel are identified by MOS, specialty code, and grade. 2The individuals who accomplish specific tasks. 3[JP 1-02] (DoD) Those individuals required in either a military or civilian capacity to accomplish the assigned mission.
personnel capabilities (MANPRINT domain). The human aptitudes, skills, knowledge, and experiences required to perform job tasks included in the total system design compared to these characteristics possessed by the target audience.
personnel increment number (PIN). [JP 1-02] (DoD) A seven-character, alphanumeric field that uniquely describes a non-unit-related personnel entry (line) in Joint Operation Planning and Execution System time-phased force and deployment data.
personnel performance profile (PPP) tables. A document that provides a minimum requirements listing of all knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain a system, subsystem or equipment, or to perform a task or function. PPPs are a basic element in the design, development, and management of training. The five types of PPPs are:
l system. The System PPP table identifies the knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain a system. The System PPP identifies the interrelationship of subsystem functions within the system.
l subsystem. The Subsystem PPP table identifies the knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain a subsystem in sufficient detail to allow the user to identify the equipment integration.
l equipment. The Equipment PPP table identifies the knowledge and skills required to operate and maintain an individual equipment, or equipment assemblage, including software-related activities.
l task/function. The Task/Function PPP table identifies the occupational specialty knowledge and skills that are either operational, maintenance, administrative/ managerial, or specialized in nature and purpose, or that describe a mission that is broader in scope and importance than that of individual equipment being operated/maintained simultaneously or over time.
l background. The Background PPP table identifies the prerequisite knowledge and skills required to learn the operation and maintenance of a system, subsystem, equipment, or the performance of a task or function.
personnel qualification standard (PQS). The PQS program is a method for qualifying officer and enlisted personnel to perform assigned duties. A PQS is a written compilation of knowledge and skills derived from task analysis, required to qualify for a specific watch-station, maintain a specific equipment or system, or perform as a team member within the assigned unit.
personnel reaction time (nuclear). [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The time required by personnel to take prescribed protective measures after receipt of a nuclear strike warning.
personnel recovery (PR). [JP 1-02] (DoD) The aggregation of military, civil, and political efforts to obtain the release or recovery of personnel from uncertain or hostile environments and denied areas whether they are captured, missing, or isolated. That includes US, allied, coalition, friendly military, or paramilitary, and others as designated by the National Command Authorities. Personnel recovery (PR) is the umbrella term for operations that are focused on the task of recovering captured, missing, or isolated personnel from harm's way. PR includes, but is not limited to, theater search and rescue; combat search and rescue; search and rescue; survival, evasion, resistance, and escape; evasion and escape; and the coordination of negotiated as well as forcible recovery options. PR can occur through military action, action by nongovernmental organizations, other US Government-approved action, and/or diplomatic initiatives, or through any of these. See also combat search and rescue; evasion; evasion and escape; personnel; recovery; search and rescue.
personnel security investigation. [JP 1-02] (DoD) An inquiry into the activities of an individual which is designed to develop pertinent information pertaining to trustworthiness and suitability for a position of trust as related to loyalty, character, emotional stability, and reliability.
Personnel Structure and Composition Systems (PERSACS). A network of computer programs which generate personnel authorizations of the Army by MOS and grade based on detailed data contained in The Army Authorization Document System (TAADS) and constrained to match authorized strength from the Force Accounting System (FAS) for each unit in the master force.
perspective grid. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A network of lines, drawn or superimposed on a photograph, to represent the perspective of a systematic network of lines on the ground or datum plane.
PERT. [DSMC] See program evaluation review technique.
pert chart. [DSMC] A graphic portrayal of milestones, activities, and their dependency upon other activities for completion and depiction of the critical path.
petroleum intersectional service. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) An intersectional or interzonal service in a theater of operations that operates pipe-lines and related facilities for the supply of bulk petroleum products to theater Army elements and other forces as directed.
petroleum, oils, and lubricants (POL). [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A broad term which includes all petroleum and associated products used by the Armed Forces.
Phalanx. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A close-in weapons system providing automatic, autonomous terminal defense against the anti-ship cruise missile threat. The system includes self-contained search and track radars, weapons control, and a 20-mm M61 gun firing sub-caliber penetrators.
Phantom II. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A twin-engine, supersonic, multipurpose, all-weather jet fighter/bomber. It operates from land and aircraft carriers and employs both air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons. The Phantom is a prime air interdiction/close air support and fleet defense vehicle. Special missions such as laser bombing, electronic bombing, and radar bombing are considered routine capabilities. It is capable of employing nuclear and non-nuclear weapons. Designated F-4. The photo-reconnaissance version is RF-4.
phantom order. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A draft contract with an industrial establishment for wartime production of a specific product with provisions for necessary preplanning in time of peace and for immediate execution of the contract upon receipt of proper authority.
phase. [TR 350-70] A major part of a training course which may be trained at different locations. Phases are required as a necessary break-up of a course version due to time, location, equipment, and facility constraints as well as facilitation in management of different techniques of instruction. A phase contains one or more modules. See phased training.
phase alternation by line (PAL). The 625 line, 50 field, color TV standard of western Europe (excluding France), Africa, Australia, and South America.
phase line. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A line utilized for control and coordination of military operations, usually a terrain feature extending across the zone of action.
phased training. [TR 350-70] Training that has been compartmentalized into distinct phases to enhance learning. Distance learning phases may conserve resources.
phases. [DSMC] See acquisition life cycle.
phases of military government. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The three phases are:
l assault. That period which commences with first contact with civilians ashore and extends to the establishment of military government control ashore by the landing force.
l consolidation. That period which commences with the establishment of military government control ashore by the landing force and extends to the establishment of control by occupation forces.
l occupation. That period which commences when an area has been occupied in fact, and the military commander within that area is in a position to enforce public safety and order.
See also civil affairs; military occupation.
Phoenix. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A long-range air-to-air missile with electronic guidance/homing. Designated as AIM-54A.
phonetic alphabet. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A list of standard words used to identify letters in a message transmitted by radio or telephone. The following are the authorized words, listed in order, for each letter in the alphabet: ALPHA, BRAVO, CHARLIE, DELTA, ECHO, FOXTROT, GOLF, HOTEL, INDIA, JULIETT, KILO, LIMA, MIKE, NOVEMBER, OSCAR, PAPA, QUEBEC, ROMEO, SIERRA, TANGO, UNIFORM, VICTOR, WHISKEY, X-RAY, YANKEE, and ZULU.
phony minefield. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) An area free of live mines used to simulate a minefield, or section of a minefield, with the object of deceiving the enemy. See also gap, minefield.
phosphors. Individual dots of color that make up a pixel (picture element).
photo interpretation key. See imagery interpretation key.
photo nadir. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The point at which a vertical line through the perspective center of the camera lens intersects the photo plane.
photodiode. A device used to translate variations in light into the electronic signals that comprise CD data.
photoflash bomb. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A bomb designed to produce a brief and intense illumination for medium altitude night photography.
photoflash cartridge. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A pyrotechnic cartridge designed to produce a brief and intense illumination for low altitude night photography.
photogrammetric control. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) Control established by photogrammetric methods as distinguished from control established by ground methods. Also called minor control.
photogrammetry. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The science or art of obtaining reliable measurements from photographic images.
photographic coverage. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The extent to which an area is covered by photography from one mission or a series of missions or in a period of time. Coverage, in this sense, conveys the idea of availability of photography and is not a synonym for the word photography.
photographic intelligence (PHOTINT). [JP 1-02] (DoD) The collected products of photographic interpretation, classified and evaluated for intelligence use.
photographic interpretation. See imagery interpretation.
photographic panorama. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A continuous photograph or an assemblage of overlapping oblique or ground photographs which have been matched and joined together to form a continuous photographic representation of the area.
photographic reading. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The simple recognition of natural or manmade features from photographs not involving imagery interpretation techniques.
photographic scale. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The ratio of distance measured on a photograph or mosaic to the corresponding distance on the ground, classified as follows:
l Very large scale - 1:4,999 and larger.
l Large scale - 1:5,000 to 1:9,999.
l Medium scale - 1:10,000 to 1:24,999.
l Small scale - 1:25,000 to 1:49,999.
l Very small scale - 1:50,000 and smaller.
photographic sortie. See imagery sortie.
photographic strip. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) Series of successive overlapping photographs taken along a selected course or direction.
photomap. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A reproduction of a photograph or photomosaic upon which the grid lines, marginal data, contours, place names, boundaries, and other data may be added.
physical characteristics. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Those military characteristics of equipment which are primarily physical in nature, such as weight, shape, volume, waterproofing, and sturdiness.
physical configuration audit (PCA). [DSMC] Physical examination to verify that the configuration item(s) as built conforms to the technical documentation which defines the item. Approval by the government program office of the CI product specification and satisfactory completion of this audit establishes the product baseline. May be conducted on first full production or first low rate initial production item.
physical configuration audit. This is a formal examination of the as-built configuration of a unit of a configuration item against its technical documentation in order to establish the item’s initial production configuration identification.
physical fidelity. The degree of structural or dynamic correspondence of a training device to the operational system/equipment it represents.
physical picture element (PIXEL). A single point of illumination on a display device. One of the thousands of points of light and color that make up a screen. The minimum raster display element, represented as a point with a specified color and intensity level.
physical security. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) That part of security concerned with physical measures designed to safeguard personnel; to prevent unauthorized access to equipment, installations, material, and documents; and to safeguard them against espionage, sabotage, damage, and theft. See also communications security; security.
physical skills. Skills that require physical movement related activities. Also called psycho-motor skills.
physiological elements. Human physical capabilities and characteristics which must be taken into account during system design.
pictomap. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A topographic map in which the photographic imagery of a standard mosaic has been converted into interpretable colors and symbols by means of a pictomap process.
pictorial symbolization. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The use of symbols which convey the visual character of the features they represent.
piece part. [DSMC] A single piece not normally subject to disassembly without destruction or impairment of use, such as resistors, transistors, relays, and gears.
pier. [JP 1-02] (DoD)
l A structure extending into the water approximately perpendicular to a shore or a bank and providing berthing for ships and which may also provide cargo-handling facilities.
l A structure extending into the water approximately perpendicular to a shore or bank and providing a promenade or place for other use, as a fishing pier.
l A support for the spans of a bridge.
Pierson-Moskowitz scale. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A scale that categorizes the force of progressively higher wind speeds. See also sea state.
pigeon. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In air intercept, a code meaning, "The magnetic bearing and distance of base (or unit indicated) from you is _____ degrees ______ miles."
pillbox. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A small, low fortification that houses machine guns, antitank weapons, etc. A pillbox is usually made of concrete, steel, or filled sandbags.
pilot line items. [DSMC] Production items manufactured to confirm production feasibility.
pilot line/tooling. [DSMC] Costs to acquire a limited number of representative items for test, including the test items, will be funded by research, development, test, and evaluation (RDTE). All items and costs beyond the quantity sufficient to test for operations suitability will be financed by other appropriations.
pilot production. Pilot production is the controlled manufacture of limited numbers of an item for service test and evaluation. The manufacturing drawings and specifications developed for quality production, and tooling are representative of that to be used in unlimited production guide pilot production. Normally funded by research, development, test, and evaluation (RDTE) until the line is proven.
pilot's trace. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A rough overlay to a map made by the pilot of a photographic reconnaissance aircraft during or immediately after a sortie. It shows the location, direction, number, and order of photographic runs made, together with the camera(s) used on each run.
pink team. Organization of U.S. Cavalry helicopter units; divided into a white section for reconnaissance, a red section with gunships, and a blue section with infantry carriers.
pinpoint. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l A precisely identified point, especially on the ground, that locates a very small target, a reference point for rendezvous or for other purposes; the coordinates that define this point.
l The ground position of aircraft determined by direct observation of the ground.
pinpoint photograph. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A single photograph or a stereo pair of a specific object or target.
pinpoint target. In artillery and naval gunfire support, a target less than 50 meters in diameter.
pipeline. 1[TR 350-70] The total time involved in training personnel once they are designated as students. This includes time traveling to the training activity, time awaiting instruction, time of actual training, time from termination of training until reporting to the ultimate duty station; may include more than one training activity. 2[JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In logistics, the channel of support or a specific portion thereof by means of which materiel or personnel flow from sources of procurement to their point of use.
Piranha. Communications Jammer OG181
pitch. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l The rotation of an aircraft or ship about its lateral axis.
l In air photography, the camera rotation about the transverse axis of the aircraft. Also called tip.
pitch angle. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The angle between the aircraft's longitudinal axis and the horizontal plane. Also called inclination angle.
placement test. [TR 350-70] A type of pretest used to determine what parts of or level of training is needed.
Plain Jane. First AC-130A gunship version, also used as nickname for the KC-135A.
plan for landing. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In amphibious operations, a collective term referring to all individually prepared naval and landing force documents which, taken together, present in detail all instructions for execution of the ship-to-shore movement.
plan identification number (PID). [JP 1-02] (DoD)
l A command-unique four-digit number followed by a suffix indicating the Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP) year for which the plan is written, e.g., "2220-95".
l In the Joint Operation Planning and Execution System (JOPES) data base, a five-digit number representing the command-unique four-digit identifier, followed by a one character, alphabetic suffix indicating the operation plan option, or a one-digit number numeric value indicating the JSCP year for which the plan is written.
plan information capability. [JP 1-02] (DoD) This capability allows a supported command to enter and update key elements of information in an operation plan stored in the Joint Operation Planning and Execution System.
plan of instruction (POI). A qualitative course control document designed for use primarily within a school for course planning, organization, and operation. Generally, for every block of instruction within a course there is a listing of criterion objectives, duration of instruction, and support materials/guidance factors. Also called syllabus. Also see program of instruction.
plan position indicator. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A cathode ray tube on which radar returns are so displayed as to bear the same relationship to the transmitter as the objects giving rise to them.
planimetric map. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A map representing only the horizontal position of features. Sometimes called a line map. See also map.
planned airlift requests. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Requests generated to meet airlift requirements which can be forecast or where requirements can be anticipated and published in the air tasking order. See also air tasking order.
planned target. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) In artillery and naval gunfire support, a target on which fire is prearranged.
planned target (nuclear). [JP 1-02] (DoD) A nuclear target planned on an area or point in which a need is anticipated. A planned nuclear target may be scheduled or on call. Firing data for a planned nuclear target may or may not be determined in advance. Coordination and warning of friendly troops and aircraft are mandatory.
planner. [DSMC] The designated person or office responsible for developing and maintaining a written plan, or for the planning function in those acquisitions not requiring a written plan.
Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution System (PPBES). 1[TR 350-70] A system that provides key decision points for training development managers when dealing with manpower and dollars. An integrated system for the establishment, maintenance, and revision of the Five Year Program and the DoD budget. The DCST, HQ TRADOC, is responsible for resourcing training. 2[DSMC] The primary resource allocation process of DoD. One of three major decision making support systems for defense acquisition. It is a formal, systematic structure for making decisions on policy, strategy, and the development of forces and capabilities to accomplish anticipated missions. PPBS is a cyclic process containing three distinct, but interrelated phases: planning, which produces Defense Planning Guidance; programming, which produces approved program objectives memorandum for the military departments and defense agencies; and budgeting, which produces the DoD portion of the President's national budget.
planning directive. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In amphibious operations, the plan issued by commander, amphibious task force, following receipt of the initiating directive, to ensure that the planning process and interdependent plans developed by the amphibious task force headquarters and assigned major forces will be coordinated, the plan completed in the time allowed, and important aspects not overlooked.
planning factor. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A multiplier used in planning to estimate the amount and type of effort involved in a contemplated operation. Planning factors are often expressed as rates, ratios, or lengths of time.
planning factors data base (PFDB). [JP 1-02] (DoD) Data bases created and maintained by the Military Services for the purpose of identifying all geospatial information and services requirements for emerging and existing forces and systems. The data base identifies: unit requirements, at the information content level, for geospatial data and services; system requirements for standard DoD geospatial data and services; research, development, test and evaluation requirements for developmental systems, identified by Milestone; and initial operating capability and full operating capability for emerging systems. See also data; data base; geospatial information and services.
planning order. [JP 1-02] (DoD) 1. An order issued by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to initiate execution planning. The planning order will normally follow a commander's estimate and a planning order will normally take the place of the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff alert order. National Command Authorities approval of a selected course of action is not required before issuing a Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff planning order. 2. A planning directive that provides essential planning guidance and directs the initiation of execution planning before the directing authority approves a military course of action. See also execution planning.
planograph. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A scale drawing of a storage area showing the approved layout of the area, location of bulk, bin, rack, and box pallet areas, aisles, assembly areas, walls, doorways, directions of storage, office space, wash rooms, and other support and operational areas.
plant equipment. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Personal property of a capital nature, consisting of equipment, furniture, vehicles, machine tools, test equipment, and accessory and auxiliary items, but excluding special tooling and special test equipment, used or capable of use in the manufacture of supplies or for any administrative or general plant purpose.
plastic range. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The stress range in which a material will not fail when subjected to the action of a force, but will not recover completely so that a permanent deformation results when the force is removed.
plastic zone. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The region beyond the rupture zone associated with crater formation resulting from an explosion in which there is no visible rupture, but in which the soil is permanently deformed and compressed to a high density. See also rupture zone.
plate. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l In cartography:
l A printing plate of zinc, aluminum, or engraved copper.
l Collective term for all states of an engraved map reproduced from the same engraved printing plate.
l All detail to appear on a map or chart which will be reproduced from a single printing plate (e.g., the blue plate or the contour plate).
l In photography, a transparent medium, usually glass, coated with a photographic emulsion. See also diapositive; transparency.
platform drop. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The airdrop of loaded platforms from rear loading aircraft with roller conveyors. See also airdrop; airdrop platform.
plot. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l Map, chart, or graph representing data of any sort.
l Representation on a diagram or chart of the position or course of a target in terms of angles and distances from positions; location of a position on a map or a chart.
l The visual display of a single location of an airborne object at a particular instant of time.
l A portion of a map or overlay on which are drawn the outlines of the areas covered by one or more photographs.
See also master plot.
plot time. The time between command initiation and draw completion (presentation).
plug-and-play. A new hire who doesn’t need any training. "The new guy, John, is great. He’s totally plug-and-play."
pogo. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In air intercept, a code meaning, "Switch to communications channel number preceding 'pogo.' If unable to establish communications, switch to channel number following 'pogo'."
point defense. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The defense or protection of special vital elements and installations; e.g., command and control facilities, air bases.
point designation grid. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A system of lines, having no relation to the actual scale, or orientation, drawn on a map, chart, or air photograph dividing it into squares so that points can be more readily located.
point of contact (POC). [DSMC] Person serving as coordinator, action officer, or focal point for an activity.
point of impact. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l The point on the drop zone where the first parachutist or air dropped cargo item lands or is expected to land.
l The point at which a projectile, bomb, or re-entry vehicle impacts or is expected to impact.
point of no return. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A point along an aircraft track beyond which its endurance will not permit return to its own or some other associated base on its own fuel supply.
l A target of such small dimension that it requires the accurate placement of ordnance in order to neutralize or destroy it.
l Nuclear-a target in which the ratio of radius of damage to target radius is equal to or greater than 5.
point target (nuclear). See point target, sense 2.
point to point sealift. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The movement of troops and/or cargo in Military Sealift Command nucleus or commercial shipping between established ports, in administrative landings or logistics over the shore operations. See also administrative landing; administrative movement; logistics-over-the-shore operations.
pointee-talkee. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A language aid containing selected phrases in English opposite a translation in a foreign language. It is used by pointing to appropriate phrases. See also evasion aid.
poised mine. JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A mine in which the ship counter setting has been run down to one and which is ready to detonate at the next actuation. See also mine.
polar coordinates. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO)
l Coordinates derived from the distance and angular measurements from a fixed point (pole).
l In artillery and naval gunfire support, the direction, distance, and vertical correction from the observer/spotter position to the target.
polar plot. The method of locating a target or point on the map by means of polar coordinates.
Polaris. [JP 1-02] (DoD) An underwater/surface-launched, surface-to-surface, solid-propellant ballistic missile with inertial guidance and nuclear warhead. Designated as UGM-27; UGM-27A – 1,200 nautical mile range; UGM-27B – 1,500 nautical mile range; UGM-27C – 2,500 nautical mile range.
political intelligence. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Intelligence concerning foreign and domestic policies of governments and the activities of political movements.
political warfare. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Aggressive use of political means to achieve national objectives.
politico-military gaming. Simulation of situations involving the interaction of political, military, sociological, psychological, economic, scientific, and other appropriate factors.
polygon. A closed plane figure bounded by three or more line segments.
pool. [JP 1-02] (DoD)
l To maintain and control a supply of resources or personnel upon which other activities may draw. The primary purpose of a pool is to promote maximum efficiency of use of the pooled resources or personnel, e.g., a petroleum pool, a labor and equipment pool.
l Any combination of resources which serves a common purpose.
popeye. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In air intercept, a code meaning, "In clouds or area of reduced visibility."
population. [TR 350-70] A well defined group of subjects or things from which measurements are taken (e.g., all students 6 feet or taller; scores; measurements).
port. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A place at which ships may discharge or receive their cargoes. It includes any port accessible to ships on the seacoast, navigable rivers or inland waterways. The term ports should not be used in conjunction with air facilities which are designated as aerial ports, airports, etc. See also major port; minor port; secondary port; water terminal.
port capacity. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The estimated capacity of a port or an anchorage to clear cargo in 24 hours usually expressed in tons. See also beach capacity; clearance capacity.
port complex. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A port complex comprises one or more port areas of varying importance whose activities are geographically linked either because these areas are dependent on a common inland transport system or because they constitute a common initial destination for convoys.
port designator. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) A group of letters identifying ports in convoy titles or messages.
port evacuation of cargoes. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The removal of cargoes from a threatened port to alternative storage sites.
port evacuation of shipping. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The movement of merchant ships from a threatened port for their own protection.
port of debarkation (POD). [JP 1-02] (DoD) The geographic point at which cargo or personnel are discharged. May be a seaport or aerial port of debarkation. For unit requirements, it may or may not coincide with the destination. See also port of embarkation.
port of embarkation (POE). JP 1-02] (DoD) The geographic point in a routing scheme from which cargo or personnel depart. May be a seaport or aerial port from which personnel and equipment flow to port of debarkation. For unit and non-unit requirements, it may or may not coincide with the origin. See also port of debarkation.
port security. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The safeguarding of vessels, harbors, ports, waterfront facilities and cargo from internal threats such as: destruction, loss, or injury from sabotage or other subversive acts; accidents; thefts; or other causes of similar nature. See also harbor defense; physical security; security.
portability. The capability to run courseware and associated application programs without modification on an instructional delivery system other than the system for which they were originally designed. Also called transportability.
Portable Document Format (PDF). [TP 25-71] PDF is a file format used to represent a document in a manner independent of the application software, hardware, and operating system used to create it.
portable electronic display device (PEDD). A PEDD is a small electronic device that has been designed and engineered to facilitate the presentation of an interactive electronic technical manual (IETM) to a technician during maintenance procedures.
Poseidon. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A two-stage, solid propellant ballistic missile capable of being launched from a specially configured submarine operating in either its surface or submerged mode. The missile is equipped with inertial guidance, nuclear warheads, and a maneuverable bus that has the capability to carry up to 14 reentry bodies which can be directed to as many as 14 separate targets. Designated as UGM-73A.
position defense. [JP 1-02] (DoD, NATO) The type of defense in which the bulk of the defending force is disposed in selected tactical localities where the decisive battle is to be fought. Principal reliance is placed on the ability of the forces in the defended localities to maintain their positions and to control the terrain between them. The reserve is used to add depth, to block, or restore the battle position by counterattack.
positional defense. See position defense.
positive control. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A method of airspace control which relies on positive identification, tracking, and direction of aircraft within an airspace, conducted with electronic means by an agency having the authority and responsibility therein.
positive identification and radar advisory zone. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A specified area established for identification and flight following of aircraft in the vicinity of a fleet-defended area.
positive phase of the shock wave. [JP 1-02] (DoD) The period during which the pressure rises very sharply to a value that is higher than ambient and then decreases rapidly to the ambient pressure. See also negative phase of the shock wave; shock wave.
positive reinforcement. Reward of performance through the application of an event likely to increase the recurrence of that performance.
Posse Comitatus Act. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Prohibits search, seizure, or arrest powers to US military personnel. Amended in 1981 under Public Law 97-86 to permit increased Department of Defense support of drug interdiction and other law enforcement activities. (Title 18, "Use of Army and Air Force as Posse Comitatus" - United States Code, Section 1385)
[U.S.] possessions. Possessions include the Virgin Islands, Johnston Island, American Samoa, Guam, Wake Island, Midway Island, and the guano islands, but do not include Puerto Rico, leased bases, or trust territories.
possible. [JP 1-02] (DoD) A term used to qualify a statement made under conditions wherein some evidence exists to support the statement. This evidence is sufficient to warrant mention, but insufficient to warrant assumption as true. See also probable.
post feedback delay. The pause which follows the presentation of feedback. This allows time for the correct response to sink in.
post-conflict activities. Those operations other than war that are conducted in the period following conflict and the cessation of active combat; activities focused on restoring order and minimizing confusion following the operation, reestablishing the host nation infrastructure, preparing forces for redeployment, and continuing presence to allow other elements of national power to achieve overall strategic aims.
post-deployment software support (PDSS). Those software support activities that occur during the deployment phase of the system life-cycle.
post-hostilities period. [JP 1-02] (DoD) That period subsequent to the date of ratification by political authorities of agreements to terminate hostilities.
post-processor. [TR 5-11] A software (and sometimes hardware) unit which conditions data after it is output by a model or simulation, in order to adapt it to a human analyst/observer or to another model. (Example: A code which converts streams of metric measurement data from a simulation into a graphic representation of a scene as viewed from the perspective of an aircraft or missile.)
post-production. The stage in the preparation of an audiovisual program, after the original footage has been shot. The editing and assembling process of combining new video, resource video, character-generated text, video still frames, and special effects into frames of composed video. May include editing, encoding, computer programming, and other functions.
post-production support. Systems management and support activities necessary to ensure continued attainment of system readiness objectives with economical logistic support after cessation of production of the end item (weapon system or equipment).
post-production support plan (PPSP). [DSMC] A plan to ensure continued economical logistical support and systems management after cessation of production of the end item.
post-strike reconnaissance. Missions undertaken for the purpose of gathering information used to measure results of a strike.
postattack period. [JP 1-02] (DoD) In nuclear warfare, that period which extends from the termination of the final attack until political authorities agree to terminate hostilities. See also post-hostilities period; transattack period.
poststrike reconnaissance. [JP 1-02] (DoD) Missions undertaken for the purpose of gathering information used to measure results of a strike.
posttest. [TR 350-70] A test administered after the completion of instruction to determine if a student has mastered the objectives to the established standard. See pretest.
pounce.[JP 1-02] (DoD) In air intercept, a code meaning, "I am in position to engage target."
power projection. The ability of the nation to apply all or some of the instruments of national power — to respond to crisis, to contribute to deterrence, and to enhance regional stability.
practical exercise (PE). [TR 350-70] The practical exercise is the hands-on application of the performance required in enabling or terminal learning objectives. Gives the student the opportunity to acquire and practice skills, knowledge, and the behaviors nec