VOLUME I Multinational Maritime Tactical Instructions and Procedures

operational control (OPCON). The authority delegated to a commander to direct forces assigned
so that the commander may accomplish specific missions or tasks which are usually limited by
function, time, or location; to deploy units concerned, and to retain or assign tactical control of
those units. It does not include the authority to assign separate employment of components of the
units concerned. Neither does it, of itself, include administrative or logistic control.
operational control authority (naval) (OCA). The naval commander responsible within a specified
geographical area for the naval control of all merchant shipping under Allied naval control.
operational speed. The highest speed at which ships will be required to proceed during a particular
operation or during a stated period.
operation order. A directive, usually formal, issued by a commander to subordinate commanders
for the purpose of effecting the coordinated execution of an operation.
optimum sonar speed. The speed for an individual surface ship at which, over a period, it can
achieve a maximum swept area with its sonar in the prevailing environmental conditions.
order. A communication, written, or oral, or by signal, which conveys instructions from a superior to
a subordinate.
outer defense zone (ODZ). An area encompassing the AAW surveillance area outside the IDZ to a
range equivalent to the maximum sensor range of assets stationed outside the IDZ.
outer defense zone coordinator (ODZC). Unit tasked to coordinate the outer air battle and all
CAP entering the ODZ. The ODZC is normally an AEW aircraft.
overlay. A printing or drawing on a transparent or semi-transparent medium at the same scale as a
map or chart, etc., to show details not appearing or requiring special emphasis on the original.
P
passive EPM. Undetectable measures, such as those in operating procedures and technical features
of equipment, to ensure effective friendly use of the electromagnetic spectrum.
passive mine countermeasures. Measures intended to localize the threat, locate the minefield,
and reduce the risk to shipping. These measures are not concerned with the physical destruction
of mines.
patrol. A detachment of units sent out for the purpose of gathering information or the systematic and
continuing investigation along a line to detect or hamper enemy movements.
picket. A unit operating outside the outer limits of screen sectors and under the tactical control of the
OTC (or screen coordinator if delegated); it is stationed in a designated position with reference
to the appropriate axis, or in a geographic position for a specific purpose, such as air warning.
picture compilation. All actions and activities aimed at compiling a plot.
pivot column. The wing column toward which the wheel is being made.
pivot ship. The wing ship in the line on the side toward which a wheel is being made.
NOT RELEASABLE
MTP 1(D), Vol. I
Glossary-16 CHANGE 1