In high-stakes environments, communication must be fast, clear, and secure. Military personnel use brevity codes—concise words with defined meanings—to transmit critical information without confusion or delay.

Whether navigating a chaotic battlefield or relaying intel during covert movements, these terms serve a clear purpose: operational clarity.

Here are 10 commonly used military code words, each designed to support coordination, reinforce command, and reduce miscommunication in real-time situations.

1. Roger

Meaning: Message received and understood.
Used to acknowledge that a transmission has been heard and fully understood. It confirms situational awareness and keeps communication flowing efficiently.

2. Wilco

Meaning: Will comply.
More than acknowledgment, Wilco confirms that the message has been received and that action will follow. It's a direct commitment to execute the order as received.

3. Affirmative

Meaning: Yes.
A clear confirmation. Whether responding to an order or verifying information, "affirmative" leaves no room for ambiguity.

4. Negative

Meaning: No.
A direct, unequivocal way to deny or reject a statement, query, or command. Used to avoid misinterpretation in time-sensitive exchanges.

5. Break, Break, Break

Meaning: Immediate interruption to transmit critical information.
This phrase is used to break into ongoing communication with an urgent message, such as a security breach, enemy contact, or updated coordinates.

6. Charlie Mike

Meaning: Continue mission.
A motivational and operational phrase encouraging personnel to stay on task despite setbacks. It reinforces mission focus and persistence.

7. Oscar Mike

Meaning: On the move.
Signals movement from one location to another. Often used to update command or teammates that the unit is relocating or mobilizing.

8. SITREP

Meaning: Situation Report.
A structured report summarizing mission status. It includes friendly force positions, enemy activity, logistical needs, and tactical changes.

9. Echo Tango

Meaning: Estimated Time.
Used to provide or request time-related information—such as arrival, extraction, or task completion. Keeps operations aligned and on schedule.

10. Foxtrot

Meaning: Frequency transition.
Indicates a switch to another radio frequency. Often used to prevent interception or improve communication clarity during evolving operations.

Why Brevity Matters in the Field

Military code words are more than jargon—they are mission tools. They simplify communication, reduce radio traffic, and ensure critical details aren’t lost in translation. These terms work alongside other tactical systems, from encrypted comms to physical gear, to create a seamless operational environment.

When time is limited and lives are on the line, clear and consistent communication is essential.

Tactical Communication Backed by Tactical Gear

Efficient communication is only part of the equation. Operators rely on gear designed to support precision and endurance. Watches, for example, must deliver accurate timekeeping, resist environmental threats, and remain operational in all conditions.

That’s where Marathon's military-grade timepieces come in. Designed to support the same principles that make code words effective—clarity, reliability, and speed—Marathon watches serve military, law enforcement, and emergency personnel across the globe.

Whether it’s the General Purpose Mechanical for field-ready simplicity or the GSAR Dive Watch for mission-critical depth, each model is built for operational success.

Protection First: Gear That Shields and Sustains

Body Armour

Built with ballistic plate inserts, body armour protects against shrapnel and high-velocity projectiles. Today’s plate-carrier designs balance mobility with protection, allowing personnel to operate efficiently under threat.

Helmets

More than head protection—modern helmets act as mounting platforms for comms, hearing protection, night-vision, or thermal optics. Designed to absorb impact and shield against ballistic threats.

Eye Protection

Ballistic-rated eyewear defends against debris and fragmentation—ensuring clear vision in hostile conditions where situational awareness is critical.

Hearing Protection

Combat operations are loud. Electronic hearing protection, like earplugs or over-ear headsets with integrated communication devices reduces the risk of long-term hearing damage while maintaining situational awareness.

Joint Protection

Elbow and knee pads prevent injury during close-quarters engagements, breaching operations, without hindering rapid movement across rough terrain.

Communication & Navigation

Clear communication and accurate navigation are mission essentials.

Radios

Radios and headsets allow secure, real-time coordination between units. plate carrier integrated mounts and cabling channels to streamline comms setups.

GPS & Compasses

Navigation systems provide accurate location data in unfamiliar terrain. Many service members utilize wrist-mounted compasses—reinforcing situational awareness when digital tools fail.

Night Optical Devices (NODs)

For operations in low or no light, night-vision extends operational effectiveness. Helmets with tactical mounts support seamless integration of this technology.

Timekeeping: The Tactical Advantage

Every mission runs on time. Split-second decisions depend on tools that deliver without fail. A military watch must withstand shock, extreme temperatures, water, and vibration—without sacrificing accuracy or visibility.

Marathon watches are engineered for this exact environment. Our field-tested collection includes mission-ready tools designed to meet military specifications.

Watches like the Stainless Steel Navigator, General Purpose Field Watches, and the GSAR Automatic Dive Watch offer:

• Effective illumination for constant night visibility

• Shock-resistant construction

• Swiss-made high-accuracy quartz or automatic movements

• Applicable water resistance, or high-altitude ratings suitable for extreme conditions
  

A tool watch is not a luxury—it’s a life-saving timekeeping instrument for professionals who can't afford delays.

Firepower Support Gear

Weapon Enhancements

Optics, weapon lights, infrared lasers and illuminators expand functionality. Plate carriers, chest rigs, and structured belts carry these tools securely for immediate access.

Ammunition Management

Multi-purpose magazine placards keep ammunition organized and unobstructed. Balanced weight distribution ensures agility during prolonged engagements.

Explosives Storage

Grenades and breaching charges are stowed in reinforced pouches, keeping safety and accessibility in balance.

Load-Bearing Equipment

Ballistic Vests and Plate Carriers

Designed to distribute weight evenly, these carriers hold armour, pouches, comms gear, and hydration systems—all without compromising movement.

Rucksacks & Packs

Mission-essential gear—rations, batteries, medical supplies—is carried in ergonomically designed rucks to reduce fatigue and protect the spine during long hauls.

Belts & Harnesses

Load-bearing belts are used for quick-access gear—sidearms, tourniquets, and multitools—supporting fast action in fluid environments.

Medical & Survival Tools

IFAKs (Individual First Aid Kits)

Immediate trauma care starts at the individual level. Medical kits provide life-saving tools until evacuation or higher-level care is available.

Hydration Systems

Hydration packs and canteens ensure sustained performance, even in extreme heat or extended missions.

Survival Tools

Multitools and knives support repairs, shelter building, and other survival requirements when mission parameters shift.

Tactical Gear in Action

On a mission, it all comes together. A radio transmits an updated position, tracked using GPS and timing is confirmed by the soldier’s watch. Orders are delivered, confirmed, and executed on time. A medic responds to a call using supplies from their IFAK. Night falls—but thanks to night vision, thermal, and luminous tools, the work continues.

This is not theory—it’s daily reality for those in uniform.

Final Word

Tactical gear doesn’t just support the mission—it enables it. Every strap, latch, pouch, and panel is designed for function. There’s no room for guesswork.

And when it comes to timekeeping, Marathon delivers watches that meet military standards—because in the field, failure is not an option.

Explore the Marathon Military Watch Collection.