Definition

The direction and distance from one point to another, expressed in compass degrees and distance, which is how soldiers navigate without GPS. A compass direction measured in degrees for navigation purposes.

Example Usage

The enemy position was at a bearing of 045 degrees, approximately 3 kilometers distant.

Origin

Navigation terminology; maritime and military origin

Fun Fact

Bearings are so reliable that soldiers can navigate in complete darkness or adverse conditions using only a compass and calculations.

Source: Military Navigation and Orienteering

Related Terms

Intermediate

Defensive Perimeter

A secured boundary around a military position designed to detect and repel attacks. The line you don't want the enemy crossing.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Beginner

Wheels up

Departure order for aircraft, literally when landing gear leaves the ground. Metaphorically, the moment commitment becomes irrevocable and you'd better have brought everything you need.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Intermediate

weapons free

Authorization to engage any target that meets rules of engagement criteria without requesting permission. The green light for 'shoot first, ask questions later'—within legal boundaries, of course.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Intermediate

Threat Assessment

The process of evaluating whether something is likely to kill you before you kill it. Critical military thinking, though the results are frequently wrong.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Beginner

Rules of Engagement (ROE)

Legal and tactical guidelines dictating when, where, and how military force can be applied—essentially permission slips for soldiers to shoot things.

🎖️ Military / Defense
Intermediate

amphibious

Military operations or vehicles designed to function both on land and in water, because apparently dominating just one environment isn't enough. It's the tactical equivalent of a Swiss Army knife, allowing forces to storm beaches and then keep rolling inland without switching rides. The reason why Marines get excited about vehicles that would make most mechanics nervous.

🎖️ Military / Defense

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