What Does "Clicks" Mean in Military?
In the military, "clicks" is a term that is often used to refer to a specific unit of measurement for distance or location. But what does it actually mean?
The Origins of "Clicks"
The term "clicks" originated from the early days of surveying and mapping, when military personnel used to use a device called a theodolite to measure distances and angles. A theodolite is an optical instrument that uses a rotating telescope and a graduated circle to measure the angle between two points. The device would make a distinct "clicking" sound as the user turned the telescope to measure the distance.
How "Clicks" is Used in Military
In modern military usage, "clicks" refers to a specific unit of measurement for distance, typically equal to 100 meters or 330 feet. This unit of measurement is often used to describe the distance between military positions, such as between checkpoints, outposts, or command centers.
How "Clicks" is Used in Different Military Branches
Different military branches use "clicks" in slightly different ways:
- Army: In the US Army, "clicks" is commonly used to describe the distance between military positions, with 1 click equal to 100 meters.
- Navy: In the US Navy, "clicks" is used to describe the distance between naval vessels, with 1 click equal to 1,000 yards (900 meters).
- Air Force: In the US Air Force, "clicks" is used to describe the distance between military airfields, with 1 click equal to 1,000 feet (300 meters).
Common Military Terms Related to "Clicks"
Here are some common military terms related to "clicks":
- Grid reference: A system of measuring distance and location using a grid of squares, with each square representing a certain number of clicks.
- Grid coordinates: The specific location of a point on a grid, represented by a set of numbers and letters.
- Range and bearing: The distance and direction from one point to another, measured in clicks and degrees.
- Map scale: The ratio of the distance on a map to the actual distance on the ground, often expressed in clicks per inch or centimeter.
Table: Comparison of Military Branches’ Use of "Clicks"
| Military Branch | 1 Click | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Army | 100 meters | 330 feet |
| Navy | 1,000 yards | 900 meters |
| Air Force | 1,000 feet | 300 meters |
Conclusion
In conclusion, "clicks" is a unit of measurement used in the military to describe distance or location. While the specific meaning of "clicks" may vary slightly between different military branches, it is an important term for military personnel to understand. By knowing what "clicks" means, military personnel can better communicate with each other and navigate military operations with precision and accuracy.
Additional Resources
- US Army Field Manual 3-25.26: Military Mapping
- US Navy Dictionary: Clicks
- US Air Force Dictionary: Clicks
Key Takeaways
- "Clicks" is a unit of measurement used in the military to describe distance or location.
- The meaning of "clicks" varies slightly between different military branches.
- Understanding what "clicks" means is important for military personnel to communicate effectively and navigate military operations accurately.
