VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

antisubmarine warfare commander (ASWC). The officer delegated some or all of the OTC’s
detailed responsibilities for antisubmarine warfare, and granted the tactical control authority to
accomplish the associated missions and tasked to carry out those responsibilities. In ASW operations
with SSN(DS) in the direct support role, the ASWC is that officer who has tactical control
of the ASW assets, including the SSN(DS).
antisubmarine warfare free area. In naval warfare, a waterspace management area in which no
friendly submarines are operating and in which there are no restrictions on the use of antisubmarine
weapons.
antisurface ship missile (ASSM). Any missile (ASM, SASS, SSM, USM) used in the role of
attacking surface units.
approach corridor. A safety corridor established for direct return of friendly aircraft through the
vital area, including missile engagement zones if necessary.
approach sector. A safety sector more flexible than an approach corridor established for direct return
of friendly aircraft through the vital area, including missile engagement zones if necessary,
and normally designated in conjunction with the stationing in the sector of a tacan-equipped
approach control picket.
area operations. In maritime usage, operations conducted in a geographical area, not related to
the protection of a specific force.
armed mine. A mine from which all safety devices have been withdrawn and, after laying, all automatic
safety features and/or arming delay devices have been operated. Such a mine is ready to
be actuated after receipt of a target signal, influence or contact.
associated support. In naval usage, operations in which a designated unit operates independently
of a specified task force or group, but is tasked to provide contact information to, receive intelligence
from, and, if authorized, to cooperate and coordinate operations with the supported force.
Tactical control of the unit remains with the assigning authority who coordinates tasking and
movement of the unit in response to the requirements of the supported force commander.
attack carrier air wing. Two or more aircraft squadrons formed under one command for administration
and tactical control of operations from a carrier.
authentication. A security measure designed to protect a communication system against fraudulent
transmissions.
authority. The person vested with the power to make decisions and issue orders; also, the individual
power to make decisions and issue relative orders imposing those decisions — such power may
be limited in scope, time, and location. Authority automatically confers the responsibility to
carry out assigned tasks and report results to the assigning authority.
axis.
MTP 1(D), Vol. I
A reference line originating at formation or disposition center used for stationing units or formations
respectively.
azimuth angle. An angle measured clockwise in the horizontal plane between a reference direction
and any other line.
Glossary-3 CHANGE 1